A recent DNA study of the Australian Kelpie has proven that they are not related to the Dingo as some believe. The Kelpie was brought to Australia from Scotland and are derived from the Scottish farm collie or smooth collie which is most likely the same working stock as the Border Collie.

Kelpie’s are known for their ability to run across the backs of sheep

Like many breeds in the rest of the world, there are two distinct types of Australian Kelpie, the working variety and the show or conformation variety.

The Kelpie DNA used in the research was collected to help breeders produce the best working dogs. This ongoing research is open to owners of working Kelpie’s who wish to participate.

It is important for breeders to work together in all working breeds to maintain their working ability, which is often lost in a little as three generations of poor breeding.