Working Kelpie
The Working Kelpie is described by the AKC as alert, intelligent, eager, originally from Australia.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 19-25 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 28-60 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Intelligent / Eager [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | Australia [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 241 of 202 [2] |
| AKC status | Foundation Stock Service (not yet fully recognized) [1] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Working Kelpies are very energetic and require a lot of exercise. Options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or going for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks. [1]
Grooming
As a smooth-coated breed with minimal undercoat, it will suffice to occasionally go over your Working Kelpie with a hound mitt to remove any dried-on dirt. Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep your Working Kelpie clean and looking his best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pet. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The majority of Working Kelpies are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder, those wishing to own a Working Kelpie can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. Good breeders utilize genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC lists the Working Kelpie in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 241 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Australia as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Working Kelpies live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Working Kelpie get?
AKC breed information lists height 19-25 inches and weight 28-60 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Working Kelpie?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Working Kelpie, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.