Appearance

A Koolie is often described as looking like a cross between a rough Collie and a border Collie, although it is rangier in build. Koolies were not bred for looks but for working ability, they come in a variety of colours, which include blue and red merle, solid red, black or grey. Eyes can be blue, brown, or black. Sizes range from Kelpie size to Australian Shepherd size.

A breed standard is currently being developed - it stipulates that height should be no larger than 550mm males and 500mm for females.

History and naming

Koolies are also referred to as 'German Koolies', although this name should be avoided because the breed originated in Australia. Its development in Australia is associated with early German and other European immigrant farmers. There are no known Koolie breeds outside of Australia.

There is little written information about the Koolie. They are thought to have descended from the highland blue merle sheep dog. Farmers then bred the Koolie to the Smithfield breed, producing dogs with smaller legs which were able to work on cattle and sheep trucks.

It is thought that the Koolie was probably introduced to Australia by European immigrant farmers around the early 1800s, at about the same time as the Kelpie and Australian Cattledogs had their origins. According to breeder Kerrie Challenger, the Koolie breed is one of the oldest breeds of working dogs in Australia, unfortunately records were never kept regarding parentage. (In order for a breed to be officially recognised by the Australian National Kennel Control Council, stud and breed records must be kept for a minimum of seven generations.)

Attempts have been made to line breed to a standard type, but a lack of proper records and the inability to substantiate bloodlines, plus the occasional introduction of new blood have prevented official recognition of the breed.

There are a number of theories surrounding the origin of the name Koolie (variously spelt Coulie and Coolie). One theory is that the name Koolie stemmed from the derogatory term 'Coolie' that was used to refer to immigrant workers in Australia. Another is that it resulted from the German accent being placed upon the word 'Collie'.

Temperament

Breeders describe Koolies as being extremely active, intelligent, anxious to please and fun-loving. They also make good watchdogs as they are not aggressive but they will bark to alert their owners. Breeders say they are good with small children.

Health and lifespan

Inherited deafness can be a problem in merle coloured breeds. The average lifespan of the Koolie is quite long, around 15 years, possibly longer.

Breeding

An average litter size is six. Merle coloured dogs, when bred together, produce a litter, of which 25 per cent will be white, deaf and blind. These pups have to be killed. This merle to merle mating must be avoided at all costs. We recommend mating merle to non-merle as this avoids the problem.

Cost and feeding

The average price for males and females is around $250. Koolies cost about $9 per week to feed with a diet of dry dog food and fresh bones.

Housepet potential

Breeder Kerrie Challenger says Koolies love to be in the house and make good companions but they do need access to the outdoors.

Space and exercise

Being primarily a working dog, Koolies are suited to country life. They will run all day if required. For those keeping Koolies in urban areas, some breeders warn that Koolies have no road sense.

Ideal owner

Active people, farmers and anyone who is willing to work their dog, either on the farm or through basic obedience training. Breeders describe Koolies as thinkers, not lap dogs.

Grooming

Minimal grooming is required. Koolies do shed.

Uses and training

Koolies are excellent with stock, they can work with cattle or sheep, in yards or paddocks. Their primary use is as a working dog but they also excel at obedience, agility, tracking and endurance work. Some farmers say they are more valuable than having another man work on the property.

Breeders say the Koolie is easy to train but they do require structured training (they will not automatically know what to do at first). They respond well to gentle firm training.

Popularity

Koolies are a popular choice among farmers looking for a working dog. Koolies are not yet officially recognised as a breed by the Australian National Kennel Council.