About the Koolie
The Koolie, sometimes called the Australian Koolie or the Collie, is an intelligent and fast-paced working dog from Australia. This energetic herding dog will flock anything that moves – cattle, sheep, goats, geese and more. They have great stamina as they often work 14 hour days; speed and reflexes are necessary as well, as they often need to dodge, jump, chase and even back (jump on the back of) their flock. An extremely versatile breed, Koolies utilize the appropriate skills at the appropriate moments. They are loyal companions and always eager to please.
History
Koolie ancestry can be traced back to the 18th century although the exact origins remain somewhat foggy. It is widely believed that this herding breed is a German bred dog that was imported into Australia by German immigrants. It seems likely that the Koolie holds traces of several working class breeds such as the Scotch Collie.
Appearance and Grooming
They are not a particularly large breed, standing around 47cm tall and weighing on average about 33 pounds. However, there is a great diversity in their appearance, both in size and colouring; this is likely because the Koolie can adapt to virtually any terrain and situation. Blue is a common eye colour for the Koolie, and it is not unusual for them to have different coloured eyes. They have a range of colouring such as merle, red and blue and tricolour, and their coat lengths are usually short or medium. Grooming is an easy business with Koolies; they do not shed very heavily and require the occasional brush and a bath when necessary.
Health and Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy for a Koolie is 18 years, though some have been known to live into their late twenties. Fortunately, Koolies have few health problems. The most common ailment they may suffer from is blindness or deafness. If they live an athletic or working life, they may have joint or cartilage problems.
Temperament
This is an adaptable breed that can do well in a variety of settings. They are not only a working dog, they can make a great family companion as well. However, there are many things to consider before welcoming a Koolie into your home! This high energy breed requires daily physical exercise and mental stimulation, and therefore should not be left alone for long periods of time. Koolies prefer larger spaces, like a big backyard and are not generally suitable for an apartment lifestyle. Even with a big yard, it’s important to provide at least one long, daily walk. With the proper socialization, Koolies are very friendly towards other dogs and animals and people of all ages.
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(Image source 2: http://www.herdingontheweb.com/coolies.htm)
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