Any dog lover has a soft spot in their hearts for corgis. Their fun-loving personalities are hard to match and their short legs are simply too adorable!
Now imagine crossing a corgi with a cowboy’s working dog, the Australian Cattle Dog.
You’ll end up with a lovable and high-energy hybrid known as the Cowboy corgi!
In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes Cowboy corgis so special and why they’ve become such popular companions. I’ll even throw in a handy Cowboy corgi ultimate care guide just for you.
Let’s get this paw-ty started, shall we?
Where Do Cowboy Corgis Come From?
The Cowboy corgi’s background isn’t as well known as you might expect, given that it’s a mixed breed. These guys are also not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) either since they’re not purebreds.
That’s because this Cowboy corgi, according to most breeders, appeared only a few decades ago. That said, this fun and intelligent hybrid is a crossbreed between a Pembroke Welsh corgi and an Australian Cattle Dog (otherwise known as a Blue Heeler).
Starting with the Pembroke Welsh dog, this breed is native to Wales where cattle herding was its original purpose.
The Australian Cattle Dog, on the other hand, is indigenous to – you guessed it – Australia. The Anglo-Australians began breeding these guys in the 1800s when they moved from coastal communities to the grassy western plain.
Modern breeders, as such, sought to combine the intelligence and athleticism of the Australian Cattle Dog with the loyalty and playfulness of the Welsh corgi.
The result?
An adorable and surprisingly agile pup that could handle everything from herding cattle to cuddling on the couch!
What Does a Cowboy Corgi Look Like?
These pint-sized canines inherit their short legs and long bodies from their Welsh corgi parent.
Meanwhile, their muscular build and captivating coat colors come from their Australian Cattle Dog parent.
Additionally, Cowboy corgis typically weigh between 25 to 40 pounds and stand around 13 to 20 inches tall, making them compact and sturdy.
Remember though:
Other factors such as gender, age, health, and genetics determine the weight and size of the Cowboy corgi.
When it comes to coats, this breed shines in various patterns and shades, ranging from red and white to blue merle, making each Cowboy corgi unique and captivating in its own way.
One look at their expressive faces, perky ears, and stunning eyes, and it’s hard to resist falling head over heels for these lovable little furballs!
Cowboy Corgis: Paw-sonality and Temperament
Known for their friendly and outgoing nature, Cowboy corgis make exceptional family pets.
These fluff balls are affectionate, and loyal, and thrive on human companionship, making them wonderful companions for people of all ages.
One of my favorite things about Cowboy corgis is their playful and adventurous spirit. These guys are always ready to join in on the fun and games. They have energy in abundance and enjoy activities that engage both their minds and bodies.
Whether it’s a game of fetch, agility training, or long walks in the park, Cowboy corgis are always up for the challenge!
As adorable as this short-legged breed is, brace yourself for its resilience and stubbornness, though. If you’re thinking of welcoming one into your home, make sure you have a handful of positive reinforcement techniques and plenty of patience.
Are Cowboy Corgis Difficult to Train?
With their combination of intelligence and athleticism, Cowboy corgis make excellent working dogs. They’re natural herders, thanks to their corgi DNA, of course. They’re also quick to learn complex commands.
Because of their herding instincts, it’s important to provide your Cowboy corgi with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
After all, a bored Cowboy corgi may easily turn destructive, so make sure your baby has enough toys and activities to keep them entertained!
How Stubborn Are Cowboy Corgis?
On a scale of 1 to 10? We say a solid 8!
Many owners would agree that these little guys can be headstrong at times.
As with any breed though, training and socialization are essential to raising a well-adjusted little puppy. The earlier you train them, the easier you can reinforce obedience and good behavior.
Needless to say, nobody wants their pups to develop bad habits!
So, all in all, training a Cowboy corgi requires patience, consistency, and a bunch of positive reinforcement techniques.
With the right approach, they become obedient and well-behaved companions.
How to Care for Your Cowboy Corgi
Caring for a Cowboy corgi couldn’t be easier! Keeping the following in mind, let’s take a look at how you can make your new puppy be happy in your home:
1. Lots of Exercise and Playtime
It may be hard to believe, but Cowboy corgis carry heaps of energy in their little bodies. We can thank their parents for that. With this breed, it’s crucial to engage in plenty of physical activities to keep your pup healthy and at peace of mind.
And yes, while they’re small enough to live comfortably in an apartment, these little bundles of joy need daily walks, interactive play sessions, and activities of that nature.
Just as they need physical stimulation, Cowboy corgis also need mental stimulation due to their high intelligence. Puzzles and snuffle mats are an excellent way to keep your pup entertained.
After all, you don’t want a bored corgi mix with herding in their DNA. Your furniture will thank you later!
2. Regular Grooming
Inheriting a dense double coat from both of their parents, Cowboy corgis require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free from mats and tangles.
I’d recommend brushing your corgi’s coat at least 3 times a week to remove loose hair and prevent shedding.
Additionally, trim their nails regularly, clean their ears, and brush their teeth to maintain their overall hygiene.
3. Strict Diet and Nutrition
Similar to their Pembroke parent, Cowboy corgis are prone to obesity. For exactly this reason, you have to keep an eye on your pup’s calorie consumption.
I know how much you want to spoil your baby, but limiting treats to under 10% of your pooch’s daily calories is typically preferable.
Remember the general rule of thumb:
Dogs should consume between 25 to 30 calories per pound, or two to three percent of their body weight, each day.
4. Constant Veterinary Care
Like all breeds, Cowboy corgis are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems.
That’s why it’s important to schedule regular check-ups with a veterinarian to monitor your Cowboy corgi’s health and address any potential issues early on.
On top of that, follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for vaccinations as well as flea and tick prevention.
Wrapping Up
Cowboy corgis have won over dog lovers with their cuteness, intelligence, and vivacious personalities. With their unique blend of characteristics from the corgi and Australian Cattle Dog, they’re simply irresistible.
If you’re considering adding a Cowboy corgi to your family, be prepared for boundless energy, goofiness, and endless love. This hybrid breed is bound to steal your heart and become an irreplaceable part of your life!
