Lumen Autumn 2024 - Flipbook - Page 41
This showed a unique region on chromosome 3 in the
Australian Working Kelpie which contains genes related to
fear-memory formation and pain perception. These genes
likely help the working Kelpie to thrive in tough Australian
conditions through dense scrub and searing heat.
We are so attentive with our Kelpie and he has still torn through
four 'unchewable' beds, torn up our floorboard and mats, and our
backyard is full of holes. And this is a dog that has another high
energy dog companion to play with all day and gets two hours of
full pelt running in a huge park a day.
Dr Liz Arnott, a veterinarian who conducted the study
as part of her PhD, believes the best Kelpies have boldness,
intelligence, anticipation, and initiative.
A close friend of mine has a Kelpie that was no good at farm
work, but he thrives in the foothills of Adelaide in a large yard
with minimal walks. Other Kelpies struggle to contain their
physical and mental energy, but so do dogs of different breeds.
It is estimated the median cost of owning a herding dog is
$7,763 over their working life, while the value of their work is
estimated at $40,000 - a 5.2-fold return on investment. The
worth of a good working dog is seen by how much farmers
are prepared to pay for them.
Our own young Labrador Ziggy has only chewed up one bed
so far, would keep running after a ball long after my arm is too
tired to keep throwing it, and chews on so much wood around
the garden that I swear he’s crossed with a termite.
A dog in the Lucindale working dog auctions in 2019 sold
for $29,000, while in 2022 the Australian record price for a
Kelpie was set at $49,000.
Whether working or companion, dogs will continue to play
integral roles in our lives. As W.R. Purche wrote: “Everyone
thinks they have the best dog. None of them are wrong.”
Of course, not all dogs bred to be working dogs make the
cut. The working dogs that don’t make it are adopted as pet
dogs. But are they suited for a suburban backyard? In an
online Reddit discussion @staticwatermelon gave advice
to a person considering getting a Kelpie:
Susan Hazel is Associate Professor at the School of Animal and
Veterinary Science, Roseworthy campus. Illustration: Stock image.
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