If you’ve seen a Corgi with an extra bit of flair, you may have spotted a Cowboy Corgi. This popular mix between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and an Australian Cattle Dog, also called a Blue Heeler, packs a lot of punch in an adorable package. Born from herding lineage, they typically showcase a sturdy physique, spirited demeanor, and a penchant for vocalization. While they may not quite fit the cowboy image without a hat and horse, they’re sure to be your closest partner, partner! Read on to learn more about this unique breed.
Cowboy Corgi Quick Facts
- Origin: United States
- Size: Medium, 13-15 inches tall at the shoulder, 25-35 pounds
- Breed Group: Herding Group
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Coat: Medium-length, double coat with a thick undercoat and a coarse, outer coat. Colors include red, black, blue merle, and sable.
- Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, and energetic. Can be independent and stubborn, but also playful and affectionate.
- Exercise Needs: High. Needs daily exercise, such as walks, runs, or playtime.
- Training: Moderate. Can be stubborn, but responds well to positive reinforcement training.
- Health: Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
The Cowboy Corgi parent breeds
Energy, energy all-round
Inheriting physical characteristics from their Corgi lineage, Cowboy Corgis are compact yet energetic companions with the herding prowess of the Australian Cattle Dog. Although fully grown Cowboy Corgis may be small in size, their exuberance and vitality are anything but petite. Unlike some more energetic breeds that require long walks, Cowboy Corgis don’t necessarily demand extensive exercise; however, they do require committed pet parents willing to engage in playtime and daily walks to meet their high-energy needs. Additionally, their remarkable intelligence requires mental stimulation, such as training sessions or puzzle toys.
Cowboy Corgi, reporting for duty!
The Cowboy Corgi’s powerful bark, seemingly emerging out of nowhere, serves as an attention-grabbing tool for these dutiful dogs, employed for various purposes such as seeking snuggles, affection, or an extra treat. If this protective trait isn’t a desired characteristic, initiating positive reinforcement-based training from an early age can assist in shaping desired behaviors. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge and respect their innate instincts, as complete avoidance may prove challenging.
Brains and beauty
Like other herding dogs, Corgis and Australian Cattle Dogs rank high on the intelligence charts. Considering their history, it’s not surprising—they were meticulously bred to be quick on the uptake and responsive to commands. Enter Cowboy Corgis, and the trend continues—these pups have both brains and beauty. While their quick-learning minds come with advantages, there’s a catch. These clever canines may decide to play the “ignore your commands” game and be a tad stubborn about it. It is imperative to start them young with a steady, positive reinforcement-based training routine and stick to it. Consistency is the name of the game!
A brush is a must
These double-coated cuties require a decent amount of grooming to keep both them and your living space looking spiffy. Following in the footsteps of their parents, Cowboy Corgis undergo shedding seasons each year, during which their undercoat sheds in preparation for the upcoming weather changes. That being said, they likely will not pair well with folks with allergies. Expect quite a bit of hair around your home unless you’re up for daily grooming (and the occasional bath) to guide the hair to its rightful place.
Loyal and loving companion
For those fortunate enough to be Cowboy Corgi pet parents, these charming canines have an unwavering dedication to both their two and four-legged family members. However, their loyalty might make them a bit cautious around newcomers, underscoring the importance of early socialization to ensure their friendliness towards strangers as they grow into adulthood.
Rootin’ tootin’, high-falutin’ designer breed
As a result of the intentional breeding of two established breeds, the Cowboy Corgi finds itself listed among other popular designer mixes, such as trendy Poodle mixes like the Maltipoo or Goldendoodle. Much like other popular mixes, Cowboy Corgi puppies may continue to carry the designer label for the foreseeable future. While this breed lacks recognition from the American Kennel Club, if your goal is to bring a new furry companion into your family, the official breed status is somewhat inconsequential! Of course, making sure you find a reputable dog breeder is incredibly important. Unfortunately, people are capitalizing on this breed’s trendiness. Always do your research to avoid puppy scams and backyard breeders!
Perfect part of the family
Inheriting the family-friendly traits from their parent breeds, Cowboy Corgis are an ideal addition to any household. Like all dogs, Cowboy Corgis find greater joy in a pack they’ve bonded with from an early age. They effortlessly blend into families of any size, enjoying the company of both young and older members.
How to find a reputable Cowboy Corgi breeder?
Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support.
On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues.
