Uncommon Dog Breeds: The Koolie

This Australian breed has been around since the 1800s, and started off as hodge podge of colors, sizes, and appearances. Slowly people began refining the Koolie using the Kelpie, and Australian Cattle Dog to develop today's animal. Formally referred to as the German Collie, the Koolie's true origins remain lost to history as there is no specific documentation. They are used to herd livestock.

Stockier in appearance than the Border Collie, the Koolie sports a moderately broad skull, with a robust muzzle which comes to an abrupt stop. Its ears are short, triangular, and set close to the skull. Eyes can be any color, with two toned pupils being common. Many have blue irises. The body is somewhat rangy, with well muscled hindquarters, and a deep chest. The coat color is usually merle, red, or tri-colored. Koolies have fun coat patterns, and no two ever look alike. Coat lengths can vary from smooth to a medium length. The long coated variety is very rare.

Three words can be used to describe this dog: loyal, energetic, and adaptable. Koolies are diligent animals who will follow their owners commands in a reliable manner. Tireless in nature, their focus is so intense, that they will drop from exhaustion rather than quit the activity.

The Koolies innate herding instincts tempts them to drive anything in their midst. Growing up in rural Southern California, I remember my Koolie herding our geese and ducks. The fowl did not take to this willingly. Despite their disgruntled quacking, Ruger would herd them to specific locations of the yard. These are very determined dogs!

As with most herding breeds, Koolies are versatile in nature, effortlessly taking on new skills. They are successful trackers, and excel at both obedience and agility trials. These dogs live to please their owner.

Koolies do well with kids, but may intimidate a younger child due to its boisterous nature. They love to play catch, and make wonderful companions for older children. These social dogs get along with other canines, and rarely have any dominance issues.