Long, low-to-the-ground, and too cute to handle, corgis certainly are a sight to behold! But corgis don’t just have adorable looks and floof going for ‘em. They’re also smart, spirited, and adventurous pooches who are pawfect for fun-loving families.
While purebred corgis are no doubt fabulous, there are also tons of awesome corgi mixes out there, many of whom may actually be better suited to your particular lifestyle. We’ll celebrate some of these aww-dorable corgi mixes and explain everything you need to know about them below!
Corgi Breed Basics 101
Before we introduce some corgeous corgi mixes, let’s get you acquainted with the purebred corgi first. We’ll delve into his history, temperament, appearance, and care needs.
And try not to “zoomie” down your scroll button. We know it’s tempting to skip all this and dive straight into all the wonderful mixes, but it’s important you’re familiar with the corgi’s characteristics — every corgi mix is going to inherit at least some of these traits!
Corgi History
The corgi is an ancient dog breed who traces his roots to Wales (corgi befittingly translates to “dwarf” and “dog” in Welsh).
Corgis nowadays are often associated with aristocracy, no doubt thanks to the late Queen Elizabeth’s adoration for them. But these adorable four-footers weren’t initially bred to be the lap warmers of royalty; they were actually selectively bred to be small yet agile all-purpose farm dogs capable of herding livestock, watching over grazing cows, and keeping pesky rodents at bay.
There are officially two types of corgis: the Pembroke Welsh corgi — who you’re probably familiar with — and the slightly rarer Welsh Cardigan corgi. Both pups were bred to be herding dogs, but they do have a few distinct physical differences (more on this later).
They’re also associated with different regions of Wales. The Pembroke Welsh corgi has ties to Pembrokeshire, while the Welsh Cardigan corgi comes from Cardiganshire in southwest Wales.
Corgi Temperament
The corgi may be small, but he has the spirit, confidence, and energy of a four-footer twice his size! His larger-than-life personality makes him a pawfect choice for families after a big dog in a more manageable, lap-friendly package. He’s also affectionate and appreciates a good play sesh with his humans, especially if the games make full use of his natural herding instincts.
Despite his friendly and sweet disposition, the corgi is vigilant and is sure to alert his owners of any potential threats. While this makes him a potentially great guard dog — well, if the threat can look past his adorable looks, that is — he’ll need some extra socialization to ensure his wariness doesn’t become a problem.
With proper socialization, most corgis are polite around strangers and won’t jump into a bark-a-thon the moment they lay eyes on a passerby.
Both the Pembroke corgi and Cardigan corgi are similar in temperament, so you can expect a spirited, affectionate pup no matter which variety you pick. However, Cardigan corgis tend to be slightly more easygoing and less vocal (a better option if you live in an apartment).
Corgi Appearance
The corgi is a small pooch who has one of the most distinct (and adorable) body shapes in the canine realm. He has a long, low stature, short legs, and a clearly defined waist that gives him an athletic appearance. He also rocks large, rounded ears which are velvet-like to the touch.
The Cardigan corgi is slightly bulkier than the Pembroke corgi in appearance, and he also has a sloping rear.
Both corgi breeds have thick, short-to-medium-length double coats. Pembroke corgis are typically black and tan or fawn with white markings on their faces, underparts, and necks, while Cardigan corgis come in a lot more colors, including merle, brindle, and gray.
Fun Fact: According to Welsh legends, fairy warriors used to ride corgis into battle, and their white neck markings are the remnants of the saddles!
Corgi Trainability
The corgi learns quickly and he has the brainpower to master complex tasks… But he does have a stubborn streak. He’ll need an owner who can be firm (yet gentle) and dedicate time to training him regularly. As is the case for all pups, the corgi responds best to positive reinforcement measures and high-value treats.
Never resort to punishments during training. Studies have shown that they can exacerbate stress and escalate aggressive or anxiety-driven behaviors. They’ll also destroy your pup’s trust in you.
Corgis are herding dogs at heart and they occasionally have the tendency to nip at the heels of small animals and young children. While training can help minimize this behavior, it’s not always easy to eliminate nipping entirely — they’re doing what they were bred for hundreds of years to do! Due to this, you may want to pass on corgis if you have a toddler (or simply want to keep your ankles slobber-free).
Corgi Exercise Requirements
Corgis may look like literal couch potatoes, but they are actually energetic bundles of fluff! Most corgis need at least an hour of exercise per day to feel happy and content. Cardigan corgis typically need less exercise than Pembroke corgis. However, they’ll still require a good, brisk walk of at least 40 minutes daily.
Grooming a Corgi
The corgi sheds moderately throughout the year, with heavy shedding periods during the times he blows his coat (spring and fall). You’ll want to brush your corgi pup at least twice a week with a slicker brush to get rid of mats and trapped undercoat hairs. During those heavy shedding periods, try to brush him daily.
Corgi Health Issues
The corgi is a relatively healthy pooch, though he is susceptible to certain health issues, including back problems, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, cataracts, and Von Willebrand’s Disease (VWD).
The corgi is also prone to obesity, so you’ll want to keep a close eye on his diet and break treats down into smaller pieces during training sessions.
18 Corgi Mixed Breeds: Corgeous Corgi Mutts!
Now you know what to expect, it’s time to meet all of the adorable corgi mixes out there in need of loving families (and warm, toasty laps). We’ll touch on each mixed pup’s common characteristics, but just remember that every four-footer is going to be unique.
1. Dorgi (Corgi x Dachshund)
The Dorgi is a majestic pooch who has plenty of love to give. Most Dorgis are affectionate, playful, and appreciate the company of their humans.
The Dorgi typically stands around 9 to 12 inches tall at the withers and weighs up to 28 pounds. While there’s really no way to predict the exact physical characteristics of a Dorgi, you can expect him to have a really long body, since both parent breeds have this trait. Most Dorgis also inherit the Dachshund’s long, floppy ears (which look amazing in the wind).
The Dorgi is intelligent, but he often present housetraining challenges and has a strong-willed personality. He’ll need an owner who can see this as a rewarding challenge, rather than a “flaw.”
2. Aussie Corgi (Corgi x Australian Shepherd)
The Aussie Corgi is a hard working, exuberant four-footer who can rarely stay still. Instead, you’ll find him herding cattle (or your kids), sniffing out new adventures, or encouraging you to join in with his goofy antics.
The Aussie Corgi is generally best suited to an owner who can keep up with his high work drive and provide him plenty of outlets for his endless energy. He also thrives when a backyard is available for him to romp around and play in.
3. Corgipom (Corgi x Pomeranian)
The Corgipom is an irresistibly adorable pup who is one of the smallest corgi mixes featured on our list. While you will need to be mindful of his tiny stature — his body is typically more fragile than purebred corgis — he’s well-suited to anyone after a companion who won’t hog the couch. He also won’t require as much exercise.
Corgipoms typically inherit the Pomeranian’s extra-fluffy coat type, which gives them a teddy-bear-like appearance. Just be mindful not to treat them like actual teddybears; otherwise they may end up developing small dog syndrome!
4. Rottgi (Corgi x Rottweiler)
At first impression, you wouldn’t think the large, macho Rottweiler has much in common with the sploot-specializing corgi. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find that both breeds are loyal, protective, and energetic – traits that are usually on full display in the Rottgi.He’ll also be a softie at heart and have a nurturing, sensitive side that very few breeds can rival.
The Rottgi can be a tad slobbery, especially when he gets excited or eyes up his favorite treats (so you’ll want to avoid this mix if you don’t want to carry a drool rag around).
5. Golden Corgi (Corgi x Golden Retriever)
The Golden Corgi is a sweet-tempered pup who has a heart (and in most cases, a coat) of gold. He has all the qualities of a pawfect family dog and his playful, fun-loving side makes him a great playmate for kids.
Golden Corgis are typically larger than purebred corgis, with most growing up to around 21 inches tall and weighing around 50 pounds. Due to this, they can usually handle more vigorous outdoor activities, like hiking, swimming, and agility sports.
6. Corgi Inu (Corgi x Shiba Inu)
The Corgi Inu is an interesting combo between the corgi and the Shiba Inu (yes, the Dogecoin pup). Corgi Inus are generally quieter than purebred corgis, so they can make fantastic companions for those who live in thin-walled apartments or have particularly grouchy neighbors.
Just be mindful that Corgi Inus aren’t low-maintenance pups. They’re energetic and strong-willed, and they’ll need plenty of socialization and training to keep their behavior in check.
7. Corgi Dalmatian (Corgi x Dalmatian)
The Corgi Dalmatian is one of the most unique-looking pups out there, and his personality is just as special too! He’s dignified, even-tempered, and incredibly nurturing — all qualities that make him a great pet for the right families. He’s also protective over the ones he loves.
While the Corgi Dalmatian is dignified and often reserved around strangers, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have a playful side! He’s a total goofball at heart and absolutely adores games that allow him to bond with his humans, like fetch, tug-of-war, and hide and seek.
8. Chigi (Corgi x Chihuahua)
The Chigi may be the smallest mix on our list, but he definitely has a case of “giant dog attitude!” He’s a bold, spunky pup who isn’t afraid to take on challenges 10 times his size.
While this trait is totally endearing and admirable, it does mean you’ll need to keep him on a short leash (if you’ll pardon the expression) to prevent him from starting trouble with other dogs.
With an owner who can meet his care needs, the Chigi makes a lively, fiercely loyal companion who’s sure to warm your heart with his puppy-eyed stare.
9. Cava Corgi (Corgi x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel)
After a portable lap warmer in canine form? Then you’ll likely appreciate the Cava Corgi. This mix’s spaniel parent was quite literally bred to keep laps nice and snug, and your Cava Corgi will likely inherit this natural “instinct” too!
Cava Corgis aren’t just awesome lap dogs though; they’re also gentle and intelligent pooches who are well-suited to first-time owners. Plus, most Cava Corgis are easier to train than standard corgis. Do note though that some Cava Corgis are prone to separation anxiety, so they may not tolerate being left alone for long periods.
10. Cairn Corgi (Corgi x Cairn Terrier)
Energetic and feisty, the Cairn Corgi is a wonderful companion for those after a spritely pup who’ll keep them on their feet! Most Cairn Corgis are also hardy and alert, and they’ll thrive with an owner who can appreciate their independent thinking and sharp wits.
However, be aware that these four-footers often have strong prey drives and tend to chase after small animals. Due to this, they may not be the best fit if you currently have other small furry (or feathered) companions.
11. Corgi Pit (Corgi x American Pitbull Terrier)
Despite his tough-guy exterior, the Corgi Pit is a sensitive, gentle pooch who appreciates a good cuddle with his favorite humans. He also makes for a great running partner, thanks to his well-built physique and endless stamina to spare.
Corgi Pits typically reach 18 inches tall and weigh around 20 and 40 pounds, putting them squarely in the medium-sized category. Coat type can vary, though most mixes inherit the American pitbull terrier’s low-maintenance short coat.
While Corgi Pits absolutely adore people, they can be standoffish around other dogs. They’ll require a bit of extra socialization to ensure they grow into confident, well-adjusted adults.
12. Corgi Bulldog (Corgi x French Bulldog)
Corgi mixes are usually energetic, but if you’re after a pup who’ll enjoy a good snooze sesh and laidback lifestyle? Then the Corgi Bulldog is likely the pawfect pooch for you! He’s typically easygoing and he also doesn’t require as much exercise as a standard corgi. Plus, he has the cutest snoozin’ face ever!
The Corgi Bulldog is usually attached to his owner by the hip, and he’ll often show his love through endless cuddles, licks, and tail wags. However, this strong attachment does make him struggle with being left alone, so he’s best suited to people who can be with him for most of the day.
13. Corgi Coonhound (Corgi x Black and Tan Coonhound)
The Corgi Coonhound is a rare, captivating cross between the corgi and black and tan coonhound. Corgi Coonhounds are usually a lot larger, with most standing around 20 inches tall and weighing up to 75 pounds, so they’re awesome pups for families after the corgi’s quirks in a ‘gentle giant’ package.
You can expect your Corgi Coonhound to be loyal, polite with strangers, and enthusiastic about work. However, he is a strong-willed pooch and will need an owner who can keep his stubbornness under control during training. He can also be pretty vocal, especially if he inherits his coonhound parent’s loud, baying voice.
14. Corgidor (Corgi x Labrador Retriever)
Corgidors are happy-go-lucky, energetic tail waggers who are incredibly affectionate with their families. They’re also intelligent and generally more eager to please than purebred corgis, making them great companions for first-time owners.
Most Corgidors have a goofy, playful side and will happily engage in any game, as long as their favorite humans are involved too. They also often inherit the Lab’s natural love for water, so they particularly enjoy swimming and playing around in sprinklers.
Just make sure the water is shallow and supervise your woofer at all times — pups with the corgi’s physique sometimes struggle to keep themselves afloat. You can also invest in a doggo float vest.
15. Horgi (Corgi x Siberian Husky)
The Horgi may look innocent, but behind those wide puppy eyes is a mischievous, playful pup who’ll always find new ways to surprise you! While you’ll need to keep a close eye on him to ensure he doesn’t cause too much mayhem, his antics are incredibly entertaining, and he’ll make a great playmate for kids too.
The Horgi is an extremely devoted, gentle, and affectionate companion. However, he can be vocal and exuberant, so he isn’t the best fit for apartment dwellers. He ideally needs a spacious yard where he can sniff, stretch, and frolic to his heart’s content.
16. Corman Shepherd (Corgi x German Shepherd)
The Corman Shepherd is a hard-working pooch who’s incredibly courageous and protective over his family. He’ll jump into action without hesitation if he detects any threats, and he’ll also alert you to potential dangers or suspicious strangers.
While his protective drive can offer a sense of security, he does need some extra training and socialization to ensure his wariness doesn’t consume him. Get him accustomed to different environments, people, and other animals as much as possible, and ensure every new experience is positive and treat-filled!
The Corman Shepherd is typically eager to please his owners and he appreciates activities that make full use of his stellar problem-solving skills, like interactive games and puzzle toys.
17. Borgi (Corgi x Border Collie)
The Borgi is one of (if not) the smartest corgi mixes out there, which shouldn’t come as a surprise, since he’s crossed with the smartest dog breed in the world – the border collie.
Borgis pick up advanced commands effortlessly, and while some can be headstrong, they’re generally extremely eager to please and can stay focused during lengthy training sessions. Borgis aren’t just beloved for their brain power though; these pups are also tenacious, athletic, and even-tempered.
Borgis do have strong herding instincts, and they’ll need a health outlet for this — fetch, treibball, and hide and seek can be fantastic activities for these four-footers.
18. Cojack (Corgi x Jack Russel)
The Cojak is just a tad zoomie obsessed. He’s a hyperactive, adrenaline junkie who needs plenty of outlets for his energy and high work drive.
While the Cojak may not be for everyone, he is a fantastic companion for those who want a dog who can join them on all their outings. He also has a clownish side, which is sure to provide endless entertainment during long treks or tough hikes.
Corgi mixes can be stubborn, but the extra effort it takes to train them is definitely worth it! You’ll get a faithful, sploot-loving pupper who’ll shower you in licks and cuddles and make every day an adventure.
Do you have one of these lovable corgi mixes at home? Or do you have another corgi mix we haven’t featured here? Tell us all about your pooch in the comments below!
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