FluffyWA

Positive training · From eight weeks

Australian Kelpie Puppy Training Manual

From 8 Weeks

Australian Kelpie: short, reward-led work turns intensity and quick learning into focused cooperation.

29 chapters · English / 中文

Watercolour illustration of an Australian Kelpie in a focused play bow facing an open treat pouch in a fenced rural yard
Australian Kelpie: short, reward-led work turns intensity and quick learning into focused cooperation.

Breed profile

Training group
Herding and cattle dogs
Origin
Developed in Australia as a herding working dog, the Australian Kelpie is heat-tolerant and capable of prolonged work.
Height at shoulder
43–51 cm
Weight
14–20 kg
Coat
Short coat
Coat care
Build calm acceptance of routine brushing and body checks.
Drive keywords
Working endurance · Independent decision-making · Chase
Handling practice
Calm, rewarded acceptance of touching and brushing the short coat · Paw, toe and nail handling without restraint or force

General reference ranges only; individual dogs vary substantially

Early help protects the dog and the family

When to call a professional

Professional help is not a last resort. It is the correct next step whenever safety, health or a dog’s ability to recover is in doubt.

Veterinarian examining a puppy with a stethoscope while its owner supports it on the exam table
Sudden change, pain, illness or recovery concerns go to a veterinarian before being treated as training alone.

Who to call, in this order

  1. Veterinarian · first stop Rule out pain, illness, sensory changes and other medical contributors before treating a behaviour as “training only.”
  2. Qualified positive-reinforcement trainer Look for positive-reinforcement credentials and professional commitments such as Delta Institute (Delta Society Australia) certification or Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA) membership.
  3. Veterinary behaviour specialist For anxiety, fear, compulsive behaviour or aggression, ask your veterinarian for referral to a veterinary behaviourist who can combine behaviour care with medical assessment when appropriate.

Perth general resources

Use the aftercare contact page—no stale phone numbers here

The FluffyWA aftercare page points to Perth 24-hour emergency hospitals, RSPCA WA, Dogs’ Refuge Home and local council dog-management resources. Check the current details before travelling.

Training with FluffyWA

Day school, board & train and private sessions are quoted after a chat, and boarding or daycare can be booked online with live prices.