The Corgi German Shepherd results from crossing a German Shepherd and a Corgi. These hybrids are Corman Shepherds, German Shepherd Corgis, and German Corgis. However, this crossbreed is popular for inheriting the best genes from their parents.
For example, German Corgis are intelligent and super energetic. And these two traits are among the signature characteristics of German Shepherds and Corgis.
While these hybrids are inherently intelligent, they are good learners. You can teach them new skills easily during obedience training, housetraining, or socialization sessions.
Interestingly, the Corgi German Shepherd offspring appear different physically and in temperament from their two parent breeds. However, they inherit the best genes from them.
So you are likely to have a strong-willed, energetic, and friendly dog with extreme loyalty to its owners. They are expected to live between 12 and 15 years.
Let’s find out all the key characteristics of the Corgi-German Shepherd crossbreed and see if they suit your family.
Corgi German Shepherd: Origin And Parent Breeds
There is no information on when the Corgi German Shepherd originated or what purpose it served. However, the breeders probably wanted to develop a smart breed that combines the fantastic traits of German Shepherds and Corgis.
These crossbreed dogs take on several unique traits from both their parents. Let’s know about each of their parents.
The origin of the Welsh Corgi dates back to 1925 in Wales. They were developed to be herding dogs. However, after Corgis got associated with the British Royal Family in 1944, they gradually became recognized as family dogs.
Their key characteristics include red, sable, black, or fawn double coats, pricked ears, robust bodies, and short legs. Corgis’ loyal, intelligent, loving, and playful nature makes them great family companion.
On the other hand, the German Shepherd originated in 1899. They were bred from common herding dogs. They initially served as herding dogs for sheep. However, German Shepherds are now used in public service. People also adopt them as companions.
German Shepherds are characterized by black-tan or black-red short to medium fur, erect, triangular ears, and square muzzles. These dogs are extremely loyal, confident, alert, and smart. But owners must deal with their stubbornness, which can be rectified with early socialization.
Corgi German Shepherd: Characteristics
The key traits of the Corgi German Shepherd mixed breed are:
| Characteristics | |
|---|---|
| Size | Small to medium |
| Height | 12–15 inches |
| Weight | 25-70 inches |
| Coat Colours | Gold, Tan, White, Brown, and Black |
| Coat | Short to medium length, dense double-coated |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy |
| Nose | Dark |
| Ears | Erect, triangular |
| Eyes | Almond-shaped, dark |
| Temperament | Loyal, energetic, friendly, and alert |
| Barking tendency | High |
| Life expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Kid-friendly | Yes |
| Common names | Corman shepherd, Corgi German shepherd, German corgi, German shepherd corgi |
1. Personality
You can expect a Corgi German Shepherd dog to be bubbly, lovable, high-spirited, and friendly. They are packed with tonnes of energy but will stay calm according to the situation. These hybrids can be great companions for families with small to large children.
However, you can find them manifesting their herding nature. It can cause them to try to control their owners. In addition, they can often turn aggressive and stubborn with other new pets and strangers.
The Corgi German Shepherd crossbreeds are adorable family dogs who love to cuddle and play with their beloved family members. You have to work on this nature from your buddy’s early age. Early training and socialization will help you the most.
A downside is that these buddies can only be left alone briefly. If they get depressed and bored, they can pass the time by chewing their favorite furniture or destroying other household items.
2. Appearance
The Corgi German Shepherd exhibits the head, tail, and markings of a German Shepherd and the body and size of a Corgi. Their stocky bodies have short to medium-length coats.
Moreover, these dogs have a soft, dense layer of undercoat and a wiry, coarse, weather-resistant topcoat. Apart from the long fur behind the legs, you will also find fur on the back of the neck and behind the legs.
You will find this crossbreed in either tan-black or red-black, resembling their German Shepherd parent. The rarest coat colour found in them is white or fawn. Some offspring may also exhibit white patches on their paws and chests.
However, a Corgi German Shepherd can reach a height of between 12 and 15 inches, weighing nearly 25 to 70 pounds. The height and weight will vary based on which parent the offspring inherits more genes from.
Finally, the Corgi German Shepherd dogs feature a long nose, a square, long muzzle like their German Shepherd parents, and a flat head like a Corgi.
3. Barking Tendencies
Note that the barking tendency of both Corgis and German Shepherds is high.
It will bark if a Corgi is hungry, bored, annoyed, or excited. These dogs will even bark to warn their owners about a threat.
Reversely, a German Shepherd will bark to warn their owners of potential dangers.
So while both parents have excessive barking tendencies, their offspring are likely to inherit the trait, regardless of which parent they inherit it from. Fortunately, you can minimize the barking tendency with training.
4. Grooming
The Corgi German Shepherd dogs usually require low upkeep.
- Their short to medium coats require 10 minutes of brushing twice a week. Besides keeping the coat sleek, brushing will keep it mat-free.
- During the spring and fall, they tend to shed more. You will need to brush your buddy’s coat daily at that time, keeping it tangle-free, glossy, and smooth.
- Take them for a bath every two to three months.
- Clean their teeth three times a week. And the nails will need trimming only once a month.
- You can clean your German corgis’ ears every two weeks.
5. Activity Needs
Regular exercise is mandatory for a German Shepherd Corgi. Make them walk for at least one hour daily to maintain their health.
Go for a stroll in your neighborhood or around the park. Your Corgi German Shepherd dog will love playing fetch, hide and seek, or catching a frisbee.
They might be medium-sized dogs but have enough energy to enjoy several activities, like swimming, running, and hiking, for hours.
This Corgi German Shepherd breed stands out in activities such as tracking things and agility. It is better to enroll them in training classes to learn different activities.
Apart from these, owners must also care for their Corgi German Shepherd’s mental needs. These dogs will need a minimum of one hour of mental stimulation a day.
You can use toys like tennis balls, frisbees, and tug toys to meet their mental needs and strengthen your bond with them. Puzzle treat toys and other interactive toys are useful when you can’t give them time.
However, avoid giving them too many treats!
6. Health
The Corgi German Shepherd dogs are generally healthy. But they are still vulnerable to certain health issues that afflict Corgis and German shepherds. Here is a list of a few of them.
Eye Inflammation
It causes teary eyes and redness. Eye inflammation can also indicate glaucoma, allergies, or conjunctivitis. Consult your vet if you see inflammation or redness in your dog’s eyes.
You can prevent glaucoma, cataracts, or other eye issues by adding foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet.
Back Problems
A Corgi German Shepherd can suffer from hip dysplasia due to their elongated body and short legs. This can cause back problems making it difficult for them to move, stand up or jump.
Bloating
This is another major health problem that these dogs are likely to face. The condition may result in the passage of food and water being cut off. Moreover, the circulation to the intestines and stomach may also be stopped.
This can quickly lead to a life-threatening condition known as gastric dilation-volvulus.
Gum Problems
All dogs are prone to gum problems. The problem may be caused by bacterial infection.
Bacterial infections can damage the gums and the structures surrounding dogs’ teeth.
Obesity
Be aware of this health problem, as a Corgi German Shepherd can easily get obese. These dogs tend to put on weight quickly due to their small size.
A Corgi German Shepherd is considered obese if its body mass has over 20% fat.
7. Dietary Needs
You must give your dogs the right kind and amount of food to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
A Corgi German Shepherd dog typically needs two to three cups of food nearly thrice daily. Such small servings will help to minimize gas formation in their stomach, preventing bloating.
You must maintain portion control for your German corgi, as they can easily become obese. Also, ensure not to give them too many treats to avoid obesity. You can rather give your buddy snacks with fewer calories.
Incorporate foods that contain the nutrients glucosamine and chondroitin to prevent hip dysplasia. German corgis can also suffer from allergies. Thus, avoid giving them beef, chicken, or allergenic grains.
8. Lifespan
The Corgi German Shepherds usually live between 12 and 15 years. However, they can live beyond their expected lifespan depending on their diet, health status, and activity level.
3 Things That Make The Corgi German Shepherd a Great Pet
There are a lot of qualities that make a Corgi German Shepherd a great pet. Here I have the 3 most important traits.
- A Corgi German Shepherd dog will require relatively less maintenance and grooming.
- They are amazing watchdogs who remain alert and careful of their owners.
- The Corgi German Shepherds are perfect family companions. They are loving, affectionate, and loyal.
Conclusion
The Corgi German Shepherd crossbreeds are ideal for physically active owners who walk briskly or jog. They will need daily exercise and physical activity. You can’t be a couch potato with this dog breed in your home.
These dogs are even a perfect fit for families with small kids. Their protective, loving, and sweet nature makes them great family pets. But this crossbreed has specific requirements that not all owners can meet.