You might give a double-take when you first see a German Shepherd Corgi mix, also known as Corman Shepherd. Especially if he has those iconic short legs. This puppy is the result of a recent cross between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a German Shepherd.
Both breeds are popular, with the former placing tenth and the latter ranked second in the American Kennel Club (AKC) rankings. While the two dogs appear to be poles apart, they actually share several attractive characteristics.
Both parents are European breeds. The Corgi has a long history as a herding dog for livestock, particularly cattle, dating back to medieval times. When you consider his stature, this explains their fearlessness. It also helps that he exudes a magical quality, which we’ll discuss later. In the late 1800s, the Shepherd was created with a specific function in mind, which was refined via selective breeding.
The Corman Shepherd is a cross between a Corgi and a German Shepherd. It has the friendliness of a Corgi and the intelligence of a German Shepherd. Let’s learn together about this loyal, courageous but still awfully stubborn breed.
Quick Breed Overview
Corman Shepherds go by several names, including the German Corgi and the Corgi German Shepherd. Despite their unfortunate status as a designer breed, you may find these adorable dogs in shelters and rescues. So remember to adopt! Don’t shop! And make their lives better, happier and full of joy!
These pups are really excellent family pets, though they can also manage in smaller spaces like condos and apartments because of their size, provided that the owner is an incredibly active person. They have a tendency to guard and be stubborn, so the Corman Shepherd may sometimes get aggressive towards strangers unless they are trained and socialized or get familiar with the person.
If you’re looking for a dog who will alert you whenever someone’s knocking at the door or who will do a goofy dance every time you offer a treat, the Corman Shepherd might be just the perfect pup for you!
History of the German Shepherd Corgi mix
The Corman Shepherd dog breed may have existed naturally for many years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Corgis and German Shepherd Dogs in the early 2000s, possibly in North America.
Since the origin or exact reason is unknown, and why breeders started breeding Corman Shepherds intentionally, it could be due to the Corgi’s growing popularity. Breeders may have wanted to combine the size and charm of the Corgi with the protectiveness and cleverness of a GSD.
It’s hard to tell what the exact origins of this mix breed are, but chances are that they naturally existed for a long time before they became popular. Both of these two breeds are from Europe, and both of them were popular dog breeds used by farmers. So who knows, maybe the Corman Shepherd is older than we might expect.
Parent breeds
Learning more about a crossbreed’s parents is one of the finest ways to get to know it. We’ll have a better understanding of the Corgi-German Shepherd mix’s appearance, temperament, and behavior by examining the parent breeds.
Let’s have a peek at the parents of this hybrid.
The German Shepherd
The German Shepherd (GSD) is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, because to its agility and working abilities.
They’re famed for their loyalty and bravery; in fact, when you think of police dogs or K9 units, they’re usually the first thing that comes to mind.
Because of its exceptional intellect and obedience, most owners love training this dog. Did you know that this dog is the world’s third smartest breed?
With their erect, alert ears, black-and-tan coat, and muscular frame, GSDs have a distinct appearance.
The Welsh Corgi
Even royalty can’t resist the allure of this lovely breed! The Welsh Corgi comes in two varieties: the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
Despite the fact that both types are from England, they have very different appearances. The Cardigan has a longer body and rounded ears, whilst the Pembroke has a shorter body and pointier ears. Both dogs are known for their small stature and stubby legs.
These adorable dogs are also known for their sociability, although their herding instincts can cause them to be stubborn and independent.
Corgis are also known for their ties to the British royal family. For decades, the Queen’s favorite pet has been these small dogs.
Appearance of the German Shepherd Corgi mix
Both the Corgi and the German Shepherd have powerful physical characteristics that they pass on to their offspring. A wonderful example of this is the Corman Shepherd.
Mixes of Corgis and German Shepherds will be simple to spot. They usually have the GSD’s face and coat color, as well as the Welsh Corgi’s height and size.
The almond-shaped, brown eyes of a German Shepherd will predominate in this combination, and many of them will have upright ears and lengthy muzzles.
These crossbreeds will also inherit the thick double coats of their parents, which are usually white, black, brown, or gold in color.
Size
Since the German Shepherd Corgi mix is a relatively new designer breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. You have to be aware, as a mix between German Shepherd and Corgi parents, you can expect Corman Shepherds to be on the medium to large side.
Most weigh in anywhere between 20 to 70 pounds and range in height from twelve to 15 inches at the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger. You can’t have a huge impact on this segment while breeding.
Personality of the German Shepherd Corgi mix
Many Corman Shepherd enthusiasts describe their mixed breed dog as a spunky, goofy, loving pup who has a lot of energy to burn. Previously said, led us to the fact that a Corman owner has to be an active person who is ready to spend a lot of time with his pup.
Corgis are a herding breed, so you may find that your Corman Shepherd tries to herd you or other humans wherever they go! They can be somewhat stubborn, so it is good to curb this type of behavior early on with the proper training.
Thanks to the German Shepherd in them, Corman Shepherds can also be a relly protective breed. This makes the Corman Shepherd an ideal companion for someone living alone who wants their own personal alert system available anytime, or with a family who is looking for a little added protection which would make them feel safe.
This guarding instinct could turn possessive if not checked and trained, so be sure to set boundaries with your Corman Shepherd as soon as possible. By doing this you will keep an alarm instinct in your pup almost forever.
Corman Shepherds are also highly intelligent dogs, which means they can get bored easily if not given enough time and activity. If they are alone with nothing to do they will fall into their destructive behaviors.
Be sure to provide your Corman Shepherd mixed breed dog plenty of mental stimulation. Their smart minds need to work on something constantly. Be in the form of some active time with kids in the backyard or fun puzzle toys to keep them entertained.
Are they good with children and other pets?
Corman Shepherds come in a variety of sizes, and youngsters who are extremely excited or don’t know how to properly engage with a dog can easily damage smaller canines. However, the Corman Shepherd is a very friendly dog, and many owners appreciate how well they get along with their children.
Corman Shepherdss can get along with other pets if they are introduced carefully and calmly, and early socialization will help this go well. It’s preferable if they become accustomed to other pets as soon as possible. Corman Shepherds might be suspicious of new or odd animals due of their protective natures.
Even said, many Corman Shepherds get along perfectly with other dogs and cats, so it all comes down to training, socialization, and your luck.
Health of the German Shepherd Corgi mix
The Corman Shepherd breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Corgi and German Shepherd also have. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues. That’s why it is important to maintain good care and regular checkups at the vet.
Some of the more common health problems Corman Shepherds suffer from include:
- Bloating
- Joint dysplasia
- Allergies
- Cataracts
- Obesity
- Back issues
Just like with any dog breed, your chances of getting a healthy dog are higher when buying from a certified breeder. Backyard breeders produce unhealthy puppies, so even do the price might be tempting, don’t do it. Invest your money where your morals are, and we hope it’s at responsible dog breeding.
But now let’s take a closer look at all of these health conditions and see what they are really about.
Most common health conditions
Hip Dysplasia
Canine hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint becomes unstable as a result of both developmental and environmental factors. Vizslas are prone to this bone and joint disorder. The femur does not meet the pelvic bone appropriately, causing the bones to wear out prematurely.
Later in life, your dog may develop arthritis, which can be excruciatingly painful. This ailment shows itself as a peculiar walk, shaky posture, or limping, all of which are plainly seen in your beautiful pup. To preserve your dog’s quality of life, discuss care with your veterinarian as soon as feasible.
Allergies
Allergies to pollen, mold, and dust cause people to sneeze. Instead of sneezing, allergies in dogs produce itching. Atopy is a name used to describe a common skin allergy in these puppies. The feet, tummy, skin wrinkles, and ears are the most commonly affected locations. Symptoms normally emerge between the ages of one and three, and they can get worse as time goes on. Licking the paws, stroking the face, and recurring ear infections are the most prevalent allergy symptoms. The good news is that these diseases can be treated in a number of different ways.
Obesity
For all dogs obesity can be a serious health issue. It’s a dangerous disease that can lead to or exacerbate joint pain, metabolic and digestive difficulties, back discomfort, and heart disease. When your pet looks at you with those adoring eyes, it’s tempting to offer her food, but you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie goodies. Instead, hug her, clean her hair or teeth, play a game with her, or take a stroll with her. She’ll be happier, and you’ll be happier as well!
Cataracts
In older canines, cataracts are a common cause of blindness. The lenses of his eyes become more opaque—in other word, hazy rather than clear. Many dogs adapt well to losing their vision and live happily ever after. Surgical removal of cataracts and restoration of vision may also be a possibility.
Bloat
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV or Bloat) is a condition that affects dogs with deep, narrow chests. This indicates that your dog is more vulnerable than other breeds. The stomach twists on itself and fills with gas when a dog bloats. The twisting cuts off the stomach’s and sometimes the spleen’s blood flow. If left untreated, the sickness can kill your dog in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave (but nothing comes out), be agitated, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up). Preventive surgery, which involves tacking or suturing the stomach in place so that it does not twist, is a possibility.
Grooming a German Shepherd Corgi Mix
Because the Corgi German Shepherd mix sheds moderately to heavily, daily grooming is required. Brush or comb your Corman Shepherd’s coat for 5 to 10 minutes with a brush or comb with loosely spaced teeth. This aids in the removal of tangles and matting.
Bathing can assist with shedding, but these dogs will only need to be bathed every two months or so. This is probably for the best, because the Corgi-GSD hybrid, despite its size, will not be easily lured into a bathtub.
Brushing them once a day is generally enough to maintain their coats clean and lustrous. You can wipe your dog down with a moist washcloth if you think he’s getting too dirty between baths.
Brush your Corman Shepherd’s teeth at least twice a week to maintain optimum oral hygiene and fresh breath.
If you’re worried about clipping your German Shepherd and Corgi hybrid’s nails, consider hiring a professional groomer.
Check and clean your dog’s ears at least once a week if he’s one of the rare GSD-Welsh Corgi mixes with floppy ears. Keep an eye out for any bad odors or redness that could indicate an ear infection.
Training
These crossbreeds are intelligent, but they can also be stubborn, making training a fun experience for both you and your dog.
Establishing yourself as their alpha is one approach to tackle this hybrid’s stubbornness. This is especially important when your Corman Shepherd is still a puppy. Let them know you’re the boss, and they’ll be more likely to obey your orders when they’re needed.
The most effective method of teaching your dog good behavior is through positive reinforcement. Food is a terrific approach to motivate this combination, as we’ve already mentioned. To ensure that excellent conduct is maintained, be liberal with goodies and praise during training sessions.
Your dog’s agility, obedience, and herding skills will astound you if you give him the right training. Like their German Shepherd dad, these hybrids may even succeed on the agility course.
Their nipping habits must also be suppressed while they are still young so that they do not injure you or your children unintentionally.
The Corgi and German Shepherd mix may benefit from crate training as well. A crate can help you house-train your puppy and deal with the separation anxiety that this crossbreed is known for.
Exercise
Corman Shepherds, as previously stated, will have plenty of energy to keep themselves and their owners busy. They’re energetic and will appreciate spending time outside on a daily basis.
This mix, like the GSD and the Corgi, will have a moderate to high energy level. Every day, he’ll need at least an hour of activity.
Make sure you take your dog out for some sunshine and fresh air, whether it’s a trip to the dog park, a long stroll around the neighborhood, or two fast half-hour walks around the block.
A regular exercise schedule is essential for preventing boredom and anxiety in the Corgi-GSD mix. If this dog doesn’t let out its pent-up energy, you might need new shoes. Because they will become destructive and ruin anything that is near them!
If you are unable to take your dog outside to play, you can spend some time with him playing indoor games. Fetch, treasure hunts, and puzzle toys are all excellent methods to keep the intellect of your Corman Shepherd sharp.
Food and diet
A Corman Shepherd diet should be designed for a medium-sized, high-energy breed. If you overfeed this mixed breed, it will gain weight, so stick to a regular feeding plan and don’t leave food out during the day. Limit their treat intake as well.
The food requirements of the Corman Shepherd will change from puppyhood to adulthood, and will continue to change into their senior years, as they do with all dogs.
The sort of food you feed your dog is determined by his age and the size of his breed. Puppies require a diet that promotes their development and growth. As a result, they usually include more nutrients and calories than adult foods. Given the Corman Shepherd’s proclivity for gaining weight, this is an important factor.
The greatest method to keep him in shape is to keep an eye on his physical health. Even despite his thick coat, you should be able to feel his ribs. It’ll be easier to keep him from gaining those additional pounds than it will be to get rid of them. Treats should only be used as a training tool. Also, make sure they don’t account for more than 10% of his caloric intake.
Buying German Shepherd & Corgi Mix Puppies
Because the Corman Shepherd is a newer breed, puppies will have a lot of variation. The broad differences in height and weight are explained by the large variance in size between the parent breeds. It all boils down to who has the upper hand. In certain aspects, the Corgi and Shepherd are similar, yet there are also significant differences.
Both the German Shepherd and the Corgi are active and athletic dogs. That means you must make sure your dog gets enough exercise on a daily basis. They are also intelligent, which implies that mental stimulation is just as crucial for them. It’s an important factor to consider because a bored dog can be destructive. If your Corman Shepherd grows to be the same size as its larger father breed, it could be pricey.
This puppy has a strong proclivity for nippiness and barking. To avoid issues as an adult, you must correct these bad tendencies as a puppy. The same may be said for his prey drive. Although he is unlikely to bolt, we recommend that you keep him on a leash.
How much do German Shepherd Corgi Mix Puppies cost?
We must acknowledge that the German Shepherd Corgi Mix is not a dog for everyone, especially if he possesses the short legs of a Corgi. There will be as many people who will love him as there will be individuals who will not. Because the parent breeds are desirable and attract high prices as purebred dogs, scarcity is a factor. A puppy with a good lineage will set you back at least $250, if not more.
Because of the dog’s diversity, we recommend completing your homework when hunting for a German Shepherd Corgi mix. Confirm that the dog is a German Shepherd and a Corgi mix. You may see pups with the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, the Pembroke’s cousin, although the distinctions are small. Make sure the seller has done the pre-breeding health testing for congenital abnormalities that are advised.
Only obtain what you need. A puppy must be at least 12 weeks old to be considered for adoption. This time is necessary for a puppy’s development and socialization. It will assist him in making a smoother transition to a new home than a younger dog. Make sure he’s up to date on his deworming and immunizations, as well. It’s especially important for a puppy who will be exposed to so much stress at such a young and delicate age.
Reputable breeders
You will be able to visit your future dog only if you find a local breeder. But that could be pretty hard to do. Either way, make sure that the breeder you are buying from is legit. Smaller breeders will most likely be able to devote more attention to each dog, ensuring that health care and facilities are in place to support health, and that puppies receive critical socialization from an early age.
If the breeder invites you to visit the breeding facility, that is a really good sign. You should be able to look around the living quarters and meet the parents and littermates of your puppy.
Furthermore, it is critical that your breeder evaluate their breeding stock for hereditary health issues and share the results with clients. This also implies that all bred animals are devoid of severe hereditary diseases. Before signing a contract, make sure to read it well and understand the little details.
Rescues and shelters
Is it possible to find a Corman shepherd dog in an animal shelter or rescue group? Adopting a German shepherd corgi mix is a possibility, especially if you want an adult dog. Inquire with breed-specific rescue organisations for both the German shepherd and the Pembroke Welsh corgi, and let them know you’re looking for a mixed-breed dog.
You can also find mixed breed dogs at animal shelters by using pet adoption search websites like Petfinder to conduct a breed-specific search. It’s important to keep in mind that some dogs surrendered to shelters may have behavioral issues. Inquire with the shelter about temperament testing and whether the dog needed any more training or socializing.
Final thoughts on the German Shepherd Corgi mix
When it comes to beauty and disposition, the Corman Shepherd has the best of both worlds.
This hybrid is intelligent and loyal in addition to being pocket-sized, fluffy, and cute.
But don’t be fooled by their diminutive stature; the Corgi and German Shepherd mix understands how to move. They enjoy running and being active, and they will not thrive if they are cooped up in the house all day.
Corman Shepherds are also intelligent, which means they can rapidly become bored. Make sure your Corman Shepherd mixed breed dog gets enough of cerebral stimulation, whether it’s playing fetch with the kids in the backyard or playing with puzzle toys.
While Corman Shepherds can develop a strong attachment to a single person, they also make wonderful family pets. The Corman Shepherd is affable enough to get along with just about everyone if they are properly socialized.
These dogs will savor whatever attention you offer them, and they will be irritated if you show your affection to other animals, particularly cats. Your dog will get along with everyone in the house if you socialize him properly.
You should begin training your Corman Shepherd as soon as possible so that he can overcome his jealous and destructive behaviors.
With that said, we’d also like to remind you that we have many articles on different dog breeds as well. Only some of them being:
- Eskipoo dog: Everything you should know
- Bernese Mountain Dog Husky Mix
- American Bully Puppy: The amazing US breed
- Bernedoodle puppies: Five facts to know!
- Frenchton puppies: Everything to know
- Cockapoo puppies: The happy and fun-loving dog
- Schnoodle puppies: The cutest hybrid breed ever