For most kelpies it is really hard to relax and shut down without a den: they feel they have to be alert all the time and any movement will trigger their instinct. When a kelpie (pup) is in a crate, covered with a towel or sheet so it cannot see out, it feels safe and secure and will go to sleep.
Dogs likely feel comforted when they can sleep close to their favorite humans, and similarly you might benefit from being close to your dog at night. A crate or dog bed somewhere in your bedroom is probably the perfect spot for your dog to sleep.
If he is eventually to sleep outside, he should also be chained, to condition him to the fact that when old enough he will be chained to his kennel at night. Avoid keeping your Kelpie on a short lead for extended lengths of time, which is just as bad as never tying him up at all.
How much space do Kelpies need? They are ideal for large spaces with a yard. Kelpies were originally herding dogs and thrive from plenty of exercise and space. As born athletes, Kelpies are not ideal for small apartments and can become destructive if they don't have the space to exert their energy.
Kelpies don't like to be left out! Once trained, they're the type of dog that will always give more back than they take. While their hardiness and ability to work long hours make them a valuable asset for farmers, it's their devotion and loyalty to their family that can make them a suitable pet for today's families.
Kelpies are not one of those dogs that can be left alone for a long time because they can suffer from separation anxiety. They will also display many destructive behaviors when left alone. Kelpies are those dogs that love to walk. They run all day with you so they cannot leave alone.
In fact, they do not do very well indoors when left on their own. While they can be trusted to work independently, being on their own indoors often leads them into mischief making. These dogs are decidedly not ideal for apartment living. They are also not ideal pets for families with young children.
Ideally, adult dogs shouldn't be left alone for more than 4 hours.
Kelpies usually like children, though you should interactions these interactions. As Charlotte Schwartz notes in Australian Kelpie, “Most Kelpies are not 'lap dogs,' but the degree to which they enjoy petting and cuddling varies from dog to dog.”
But there is some good news: a kelpie has a weak spot – its bridle. Anyone who can get hold of a kelpie's bridle will have command over it and any other kelpie.
Do Kelpies bond with one person? Kelpies are known for being loyal and affectionate with their owners, but they can also bond with multiple people. They love to be part of your pack and will bond with everyone in the family.
At around 12 – 15 degrees most pets will probably be quite safe. At 10 degrees, you need to keep an eye on them as it can be potentially unsafe depending on their age, general health, and breed.
If you roll over in bed and startle your pet, he may not intend to bite, but an unintentional bite hurts just as much as an intentional one. But, if you and your dog do not have health issues or behavioral issues that would make sleeping together an unhealthy situation for either party, co-sleeping should be just fine.
Though many people think dogs can curl up and sleep most anywhere, your furry friend really shouldn't be sleeping on the floor. You also probably don't want him climbing up on your beds or sofas. The truth is, dogs need beds just like we do, and they are beneficial for a variety of reasons.
Should Dogs Sleep Outside? Dogs should always sleep indoors with their people. Though some dog breeds manage the heat well, and others are well adapted to the cold, no dog breed is built to withstand extreme heat or cold for hours on end.
Don't leave your dog in the crate too long. A dog who's crated all day and night doesn't get enough exercise or human interaction and can become depressed or anxious.
Double-layer coats: Border Collies, Aussie Shepherds, Kelpies, most spaniels and terriers, and other dogs with a medium coat can all be washed about once every two to four months.
Kelpies do best in homes that provide lots of exercise—a short walk around the block is not enough to satisfy their need to be on the go. Hiking, swimming, and romps at the dog park are excellent activities to help kelpies burn off some of their energy.
Kelpies respond to kindness, and will willingly work (whether stock work, obedience, tracking or agility) for someone who rewards their efforts. Kelpies are loyal dogs to the point of being jealous. Occasionally fights or squabbles break out at my home due to jealousy of another dog being near me.
The puppy should be compliant and sit for his dinner and obey your commands without question. As your Kelpie begins to mature you will see more and more of their calmness coming through. They tend to be most excitable around 9-14 weeks of age and then very gradually get a bit better.
Kelpies can be excellent guard dogs and very protective of their masters.
Just as humans stare into the eyes of someone they adore, dogs will stare at their owners to express affection. In fact, mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin, known as the love hormone. This chemical plays an important role in bonding and boosts feelings of love and trust.
If your dog follows you everywhere then it's a sign that they trust and love you and that you make them feel safe. Following you very closely can be a sign that they're bored, they want something, they're feeling scared or are just being nosy.
Try throwing a stick, a ball or Frisbee into the water to encourage your dog to retrieve as this will keep them active. You could use inflatables, like a beach ball and get your pooch to nudge it along with their nose.