Corgi Aussie Mix: All About This Cute Hybrid Breed

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Australian Shepherd are two herding breeds that have become hugely popular over the years. So it’s no surprise that crossbreeding these intelligent, energetic dogs has resulted in an adorable hybrid gaining attention across the globe. The Corgi Australian Shepherd mix, also referred to as an Auggie or Aussie-Corgi mix, combines the best traits from each parent breed into one lovable package.

For those looking for a medium-sized dog that’s lively, affectionate and great with kids, the Corgi Aussie crossbreed makes an excellent family pet. They have an endearing appearance with their big, perky ears and fluffy coat. They also inherit the smarts and work ethic of both their parent breeds. While Corgi Aussie mixes thrive when given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, they also enjoy snuggling up with their owners at the end of an active day.

This popular crossbreed has emerged within the last couple decades, gaining more and more fans over the years. Corgi Aussie mixes are now bred across North America and beyond. As with any hybrid dog, traits can vary quite a bit depending on which parent breed is more dominant. But most Corgi Australian Shepherd mixes are a wonderful blend of intelligence, spunk and affection. Keep reading to learn all about their origins, physical features, temperaments and ideal care requirements.

Origin and History

To understand the Corgi Aussie mix dog breed, it helps to learn about the background of its parent breed. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has ancient roots as a herding dog in Wales, used to move cattle and chase away vermin. Their association with Welsh folklore and their spunky nature made them popular across Britain. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was recognized by the AKC in 1934. These long, low-to-the-ground dogs are still renowned for their herding abilities today.

The Australian Shepherd’s Origins

The Australian Shepherd’s origins are a bit mysterious, but they were also bred as intelligent herding dogs. Despite their name, they didn’t originate from Australia but were developed in the western U.S. by ranchers needing a strong working dog. The Australian Shepherd joined the AKC in the 1990s and has risen tremendously in popularity thanks to their trainability, energy and loyalty. 

When and Why the Corgi Australian Shepherd Mix was First Developed

It’s believed the Corgi Australian Shepherd mix first emerged in the 1990s or early 2000s. Breeders saw the potential in crossing the short-statured Pembroke Welsh Corgi with the larger Australian Shepherd for a more compact herding dog. The hybrid breed gained attention for embodying the best attributes of both parent breeds – an affectionate yet energetic and bright companion.

Reputable Corgi Aussie mix breeders can be found across the U.S., Canada, Australia and beyond today. However, their breeding is still not formally regulated. These adorable hybrid pups have become a favorite for families seeking an active and loyal dog breed that’s easier to manage than a full-size Australian Shepherd.

Appearance and Personality of the Corgi Aussie Mix

In terms of appearance, the Corgi Australian Shepherd mix breed can vary quite a bit depending on which parent breed is more dominant. Most will have the Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s iconic long body and short legs. Their facial features usually resemble the Aussie, with pointy, erect ears and almond-shaped eyes that showcase the breed’s intelligence.

Color Variations

The Corgi Aussie cross typically has a medium-length double coat that can come in a wide array of colors. Common color combinations include black, white, brown, and tan. Merle coats featuring a signature mottled pattern are also common in Corgi Aussie mixes. Their fur is weather-resistant and sheds moderately year-round. Most will have white markings on the face, paws and chest.

These hybrids are a little smaller than a purebred Aussie, reaching 20 to 30 pounds at a mature height around 13 inches tall. Their compact size makes them agile while still strong enough for farm work. Corgi Aussie mixes also have expressive faces and alert, upright ears that communicate their active nature.

Temperament

In terms of temperament, this crossbreed combines the spunky, fun-loving nature of the Corgi with the loyal devotion of the Aussie. Most Corgi Australian Shepherd mixes bond deeply with their family and have an innate eagerness to please. They’re energetic, smart and focused dogs who excel at canine activities. However, they also thrive on being close to their owners. With proper training and socialization, these hybrids make a wonderful family companion.

Exercise and Training Needs of the Corgi Aussie Mix

As a cross between two energetic herding breeds, Australian Shepherd Corgi mixes require plenty of physical and mental stimulation. This breed thrives when given at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise per day. They especially love having a job to do, so activities like agility, frisbee and advanced obedience classes are ideal for an Auggie.

Corgi Aussie mixes also need opportunities to run and play in a safely fenced area. Long walks, hiking and swimming are great daily activities for this active hybrid breed. Keeping their agile minds engaged with interactive toys and training is key as well. Without adequate outlets for their energy, these clever pups are prone to boredom and unwanted behaviors like excessive barking or destruction.

Benefits of Obedience Training From a Young Age

Early socialization and obedience training is highly recommended for the strong-willed Corgi Australian Shepherd mix. Their intelligence makes them responsive students, but their herding heritage means they may try to “herd” children and other pets at home. Reward-based training helps establish leadership and provides mental stimulation.

While Corgi Aussie mixes are focused workers, they can be independent thinkers. Consistent and positive reinforcement is key when house-training and teaching commands. Once owners establish themselves as capable leaders, this hybrid will thrive on bonding through fun activities and rewards-based training. Their mix of devotion and smarts makes them a highly trainable hybrid when handled patiently and kindly.

Grooming and Care Needs of the Corgi Aussie Mix

The Corgi Australian Shepherd mix has a medium-length double coat that should be brushed 2-3 times per week to remove dead hair and distribute skin oils. During seasonal shedding periods, daily brushing may be necessary to control loose fur. This mix is not considered hypoallergenic and sheds a moderate amount year-round.

Their weather-resistant coat means Corgi Aussie mixes only need occasional bathing, when dirty. Over-bathing can strip the coat of essential oils. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks to prevent cracking and splitting. Teeth brushing 2-3 times per week is also advised. Ears should be checked weekly for dirt buildup and signs of infection.

A Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s elongated back makes them prone to Intervertebral Disk Disease. Corgi Aussie mixes may inherit this vulnerability, so activities like jumping on and off furniture should be avoided. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. An orthopedic dog bed provides comfort and support.

These energetic hybrids have few serious genetic conditions. Reputable breeders will screen for eye issues like collie eye anomaly and hip dysplasia that Aussies can be prone to. With proper diet, exercise and vet care, the Corgi Australian Shepherd mix often lives 12-15 years. Monitoring weight, dental health and back problems will keep this playful hybrid happy and healthy.

Finding a Corgi Aussie Mix Puppy

The rise in popularity of the Corgi Aussie mix has led to more irresponsible breeding, so it’s important to find a reputable source. Avoid pet stores or online ads selling these hybrid pups. Instead, research breeders who health test their breeding stock, offer health guarantees, and raise litters in their homes.

Ask to meet parent dogs and inspect conditions to ensure they are humane and clean. Responsible Corgi Aussie mix breeders will welcome questions about genetic testing, veterinary care, and early socialization. Be wary of breeders who have multiple litters available as this can signal excess breeding practices.

Since they are crossbreeds, Corgi Australian Shepherd mix puppies can vary in price. From a quality breeder, expect to pay $800-$1500 USD on average. Adoption fees for an adult or young Aussie Corgi mix from a rescue often range $150-$450. Avoid very low-cost pups as this may indicate irresponsible breeding.

Whether purchasing a pup or adopting, be sure to receive vet records confirming vaccinations, deworming, a health exam, and that the dog has been spayed/neutered. Prepare your home with training pads, chew toys, a crate, food bowls and high-quality puppy food. With patience and plenty of love, your Corgi Aussie mix will grow into an amazing lifelong companion.

Conclusion

The Corgi Australian Shepherd mix is truly the best of both worlds, blending the lively personality of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi with the athleticism and trainability of the Aussie. This relatively new hybrid breed makes a wonderful family pet for active owners seeking a medium-sized herding dog.

Corgi Aussie crosses have an endearing appearance, from their spunky expressions to fluffy coats in eye-catching merle patterns. They inherit strong herding instincts but also have an innate desire to bond closely with their human pack. With plenty of exercise, mental stimulation and positive reinforcement training, these loyal and clever dogs thrive in family environments.

While the mix can be prone to some health issues, finding a responsible breeder who screens for problems like hip dysplasia will provide the best start. Adopting a Corgi Aussie mix can also be very rewarding. Make sure prospective owners understand this hybrid’s high activity needs before making the long-term commitment. With the right care, training and outlets for their energy, the Corgi Australian Shepherd mix makes for a fun-loving companion animal.