The Koolie is an energetic, low-maintenance working dog developed in Australia and popular with farmers. While it has been around since the early 1800s, the Koolie isn’t yet officially recognised as a breed by the Australian National Kennel Council due to a lack of proper breed records.

Koolies are sometimes referred to as “German Koolies”, a reference to the German immigrant farmers involved in developing the breed, although this name can be confusing as the Koolie is a fully Australian breed.

The Koolie looks a little like a mix between a Rough Collie and a Border Collie, and comes in sizes ranging from 34 to about 55 or cm, weighing 15 to 24 kg. Colours include blue and red merle and solid red, black or grey. The eyes can be blue, black or brown. Koolies need minimal grooming.

Because the breed was developed for herding stock, it’s in the Koolie’s nature to herd anything that moves. It is known for its incredible stamina and energy, so this is a dog that needs to be given something to do. It won’t do well confined to a house or a small backyard. This breed is best suited to country life where it can run around to its heart’s content and its multiple talents can be put to good use.

The Koolie is loyal and keen to please. It is generally good with small children and with other pets in the household when introduced from a young age. It’s a dog that’s easy to train and responds best to firm but gentle training methods.

Merle-coloured Koolies are prone to inherited deafness, but this breed has a long lifespan of 15 to 18 years.

Visit Animal Talent  to see Dash the Koolie in action!