Corgi Border Collie Mix Facts
3 Reasons Why You Should Not Get a Border Collie Corgi Mix
1. Serious Health Issues
The Border Collie mixed with Corgi is prone to serious health conditions that potential owners must prepare for when they arise. The glaring difference between the two parent breeds may contribute to the hybrid dog’s possible physical limitations and abnormalities. The Border Collie and the Corgi, both among common household dog breeds, may inherit conditions from their parent breeds that can carry over to their offspring.
2. Crossing Breeds Risks
Both the Border Collie and the Corgi are among the most popular dog breeds in the US, which may give breeders an idea to crossbreed. The effects that crossbreeding can have on the offspring can be devastating if not done properly and without proper research. Small-time breeders may often take advantage of the popularity and forego crossbreeding without giving it a thought about the puppy’s health.
3. Very Active Dog
The combination of two wildly energetic dogs can produce an offspring with enough energy to overwhelm a laid-back owner. It is very tiring to keep up with the Corgi Border Collie cross, especially when it lives in a house or apartment with a small space. It is also prone to playing with children to the point of exhaustion. Active owners will have a blast with this hybrid dog, but a regular person would rather have a pet with less energy.
3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Border Collie Corgi Mix
- Longevity
Most dog owners would love to have a pet that they can live with throughout their lives. However, a lot of dogs can only have an average life span of up to a decade. Crossbreeds often have shorter lives, depending on the parents’ history. The Border Collie Corgi cross is an exception to this rule as a healthy one can live for 14 to 18 years. This hybrid dog is perfect for sentimental families.
- Herding Instincts
The Border Collie Corgi can watch over your children with full attention because of its strong herding instincts. It may nip at the child’s feet to herd him or her back to where he is supposed. Both of the parent breeds are responsible for this trait, making the cross between the Border Collie and the Corgi a great family watchdog.
- Easy to Train
The Corgi Border Collie is an intelligent and loving pet. It is easy to train as it tends to follow the owner’s commands without hesitation. While its energy makes it hard to control, an owner with patience can teach this hybrid dog how to behave appropriately around the house and strangers. Socialization training at an early age will help associate the Border Collie Corgi mix with other animals around the house.
Other Corgi & Border Collie Mixes
Picking the breed of dog that aligns with your lifestyle is extremely important. Every year tens of thousandcs of dogs are put up for adoption because the owner didn’t do their research.
Not sure the Border Collie Corgi aligns with your lifestyle? Consider adopting one of 50+ popular Corgi mixes or Border Collie mixes.
My personal favorites are the Corgi Husky or the Bernese Mountain Dog Corgi mix because they are so cute, but do your research and check out the mixes below.
Corgi Mixes
Appearance, Personality, and Traits of a Border Collie Corgi Mix
| Weight | Male: 13 to 18 inches
Female: 11 to 16 inches |
| Height | Male: 25 to 30 pounds
Female: 20 to 25 pounds |
| Size | Medium |
| Coat Type | Short or Medium in Length, Normal in Density, Straight in Texture |
| Coat Color | Black, Blue, Red, White, Fawn, Gray, Sable, or a combination of any two or three |
| Amount of Shedding | Heavy |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Nose | Black |
| Ears | Pointy, Half-Erect, or Floppy depending on the parent breeds |
| Temperament | Alert, Hardworking, Intelligent, Energetic, Easy to Train, Independent, Herder, Stubborn, Eager to Please |
| Life Expectancy | 14 to 18 Years |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Kids Friendly | Yes |
| New Owners Friendly | No |
| Breed Recognition | DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry |
| Physical Traits | Long-coated, medium size, Corgi white markings almost always present |
Border Collie Corgi Mix Puppies for Sale
Adopting a healthy Corgi Border Collie mix is down to one thing – finding the right reputable breeder. Potential owners will want to buy this hybrid dog from a breeder that will not breed dogs just because of the parents’ features or the crossbreed’s popularity. The right breeder must have the proper medical documents and raise the puppy with care and attention until a buyer comes along. Breeders are also responsible for the health of the puppies with veterinary papers and shots.
A Border Collie costs around $600 to $800 while a Corgi has a price in the range of $600 and $1000. It is possible that a Border Collie Corgi that is fit and healthy will cost more. In some cases, it may cost around $2000 if it comes from a reputable breeder, but it is worth the risk if you happen to find an active and healthy puppy.
Here are some places where potential owners can browse from for the Border Collie mixed with Corgi breed:
- Crystal Corgis in Stamford, CT
- Nistler’s Farm Corgis in Salem, MO
- Pembury House in Derby, CT
- Paws of Coronado in Coronado, CA
- Coronado Animal Care Facility in Coronado, CA.
- Borgi – Cowboy Corgi for Sale at Facebook
Grooming Your Border Collie Corgi Mix
Because of the double coat of the Corgi and the long hair of the Border Collie, the Corgi Border Collie mix may be high maintenance in terms of grooming. Its fur needs to undergo daily brushing, especially during its shedding season. Regular brushing helps remove dead hair from the coat, which makes it easier to groom and bathe. The coat of the Border Collie Corgi also needs its brushing to avoid entanglement.
The natural oil of the Corgi Border Collie can keep its coat shiny. This hybrid dog only needs a bath once a week or when it becomes too dirty because of its physical activities. Owners must brush the teeth of the Corgi Border Collie cross at least three times in a week to avoid gum disease.
Here are some of the best grooming equipment needed to maintain the coat of the Border Collie crossed with Corgi:
- Slicker Brush
Slicker brushes are perfect grooming items for dogs with long coats like the Corgi crossed with Border Collie. It can weave through the fur with ease and can remove shedding hair. It also saves the owners so much time compared to those who use a regular comb.
- Detanglers
The Border Collie mixed with Corgi can get its long coat in a tangled mess. A detangling tool can help remove tangled hair, leaving the dog’s fur smooth and easy to groom using a slicker brush. While the slicker brush can untangle this hybrid dog’s hair by itself, the detangler is the more efficient option.
- Dematting Sprays
The Corgi mixed with Border Collie is prone to developing tangled knots on its coat. The process of vigorous brushing can be excruciating for this hybrid dog. Dematting sprays help soften and relax the hair, making it easier to brush and untangle coats.
- Scissors
When tangles become too hard to remove, a pair of scissors can come in handy. Scissors will help owners eliminate unsolvable mats without having to go to the dog salon to have the Border Collie mixed with Corgi shaved.
Border Collie Corgi Mix Health Problems
The Border Collie Corgi cross is prone to health conditions that it may develop or inherit from its parent breeds. Here are some of the common dog illnesses that this hybrid dog can have:
1. Achondroplasia
Achondroplasia, a physical health condition for dogs with short legs, is a common problem for Corgis. The Corgi Border Collie cross is also prone to achondroplasia, which may lead to more severe health issues.
2. Intervertebral Disc Disease
Intervertebral disc disease is a condition that is common among all dogs in general. The Corgi Border Collie mix can experience nerve damage, pain, and paralysis when the vertebrae discs of the spine bulge or burst.
3. Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative Myelopathy is a severe spinal condition that happens when dogs have progressive paralysis on its legs. Degenerative myelopathy shows its symptoms when the affected dog starts to walk funny on its hind legs. The disease has yet to have a cure.
4. Von Willebrand Disease
Von Willebrand disease happens when the Border Collie Corgi mix has excessive bleeding from small injuries. It is a severe bleeding disorder that can endanger and shorten the hybrid dog’s life.
5. Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a disease that can cause episodic seizures. Epilepsy occurs when the dog’s brain starts to have unusual activity, leading to sudden changes in a dog’s movement. While it is a rare disease for dogs, the Border Collie Corgi can suffer from it if one of its parent breeds carries it on its genes.
The Corgi Border Collie is prone to a lot of diseases because of the risks that small-time breeders take when crossbreeding without a background check. Owners must always try to find breeders that have medical clearances and history of the hybrid dog’s parent breeds.
Border Collie Corgi Mix Food Requirements
The Border Collie Corgi mix needs to have at least 3 cups of high-quality dog food per day to keep it healthy. The average diet for this hybrid dog is around $1.20 to $1.40 on a daily basis. Its monthly cost is around the range of $34 to $45.
Over-eating is an important issue to keep in mind because both of the Corgi Border Collie mix’s parents are prone to it. Pet owners must avoid overfeeding the Corgi crossed with Border Collie. It is essential for owners to be strict with the Pitbull Corgi’s food intake by not giving into their “puppy eyes” every time owners eat human food. They must also consult with a veterinarian to provide the hybrid dog its proper nutrients.
Here is a list of the most recommended dog food brand in the US:
- Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Chicken
A gluten-free diet, Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health is a recommended choice by nutritionists because it provides a balance of critical nutrients and premium proteins. Manganese and zinc can help ensure good hip and joint support for dogs. Its oat fiber can help with proper digestion. Its combination with blueberries, spinach, and cranberries has antioxidants.
- Earthborn Holistic Adult Vantage Natural Dry Dog Food
Earthborn Holistic Natural Dog Food is a plateful of high-quality proteins such as whitefish and chicken meal. The product guarantees high levels of antioxidant nutrients as it blends nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables with Beta-Carotene and Vitamin E. The Corgi Border Collie cross can easily digest its wholesome grains like barley, brown rice, rye, and oatmeal.
- Chicken Soup for the Soul Dry Adult Dog Food
This recipe has two main ingredients in turkey and protein-rich real chicken. It also offers complex carbohydrates from brown barley rice and peas. The Chicken Soup for the Soul dry adult dog food provides dried chicory root fiber and antioxidant-rich fruits to keep your pet healthy. Border Collie Corgi owners that are on a budget will feel relief with this brand’s low price.
- ACANA Heritage Meats Formula
ACANA Heritage Meats Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a high-profile brand that provides an appropriate and protein-rich diet. The formula includes 40% of a combination of vegetables, botanicals, and fruit and 60% of pork, lamb, and beef ingredients. This dog food will help maintain the dog’s immune system and keep it healthy.
- Victor Nutra Pro Super Premium Dry Dog & Puppy Food Formula
Energetic dogs will enjoy the high-protein dog food that is Victor Nutra Pro Select. The formula for this five-star brand is 90% fresh meat, fish, and poultry, which provides an extraordinary amount of protein for the Corgi Border Collie. It only contains 22% carbohydrates and also allows for lesser food intake.
- Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Recipe
This dog food recipe has raw chicken as its main ingredient. It also contains fresh fish, which provides a good dose of nutritional benefits for a dog in a raw diet. It does not have corn, wheat, preservatives, and artificial colors. Feeding Castor & Pollux Organix dog food is good for the Corgi Border Collie mix’s digestive problems.
- Whole Earth Farms Adult Recipe
Whole Earth Farms is a nutritious and delicious dog food that offers what the earth can give at a good value. Its ingredients are high-quality and can provide balanced nutrition. Whole Earth Farms Food does not contain corn or wheat but has probiotics to help with the digestive system of the Border Collie crossed with Corgi.
- Horizon Complete All Life Stages Dry Dog Food
Owners who want to stick with one dog food throughout the Corgi crossed with Border Collie’s life may wish to consider Horizon Complete Dry Dog Food. Its low glycemic index helps balance blood sugar, reduce aids in disease prevention, and lose weight. The brand has nutritional levels that are suitable for the hybrid dog’s life stages.
- Orijen Original Grain Free Dry Dog Food
The Orijen Original Grain Free Dog Food is rich in protein-packed meat ingredients that can match human consumption. The brand’s formula is recommendable for the Corgi mixed with Border Collie’s natural diet. The Orijen Adult Dog Food has ingredients that include chicken, free-run turkey, fish, vegetables, fruits, and whole eggs.
- Fromm Gold Holistic Dog Food
The Fromm Gold Adult Holistic dog food is perfect for active dogs like the Border Collie Corgi mix. Its ingredients contain duck, chicken, whole eggs, Wisconsin cheese, and lamb. Salmon oil can help provide this hybrid dog with a shiny and healthy coat. It also has probiotics to aid digestion. The product undergoes third-party pathogenic bacteria testing to make sure that it is safe for consumption.
If you want to see your pooch run around healthy and happy all the time, you need to take care of their nutrition. Your hairy companion deserves the best, so choose the best dry dog food in the market you can find, as well as Wellness Core Dog Food, Dog For Dog Food, or Nutra Thrive dog food supplement. This also means avoiding the worst dry dog food at all costs, as your pup won’t benefit from it. Younger pups need the energy to be active, and lots of vitamins and minerals too. Food that encompasses everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different necessities, so look for their food in the best senior dry dog food. It will help them stay strong and show off proudly.
You can also take a look at the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may also contain some food that your pooch will adore. Don’t forget to contact your vet before making bigger changes in your dog’s diet.
Border Collie Corgi Mix Exercise Requirements
Since both of the parent breeds are highly-active dogs, the Corgi Border Collie mix needs physical exercises to bring its energy levels down. Running up and down the house as an exercise for the Border Collie Corgi mix will not suffice. Activities that involve a task is suitable for this hybrid dog because of the parent breeds’ herding instincts.
Because of its high energy level, the Corgi crossed with Border Collie needs to have at least 60 minutes of daily exercise. In a week, it needs to run or walk around 12 miles to keep it in tip-top shape. When owners worry that the dog will outrun you, it is recommended to keep it on a long and retractable leash. The leash also prevents the Border Collie Corgi cross from chasing other family’s kids around the park or cars speeding past the streets.
Constant inactivity will bore the hybrid dog around the house, introducing it to streaks of rebellion. It may also become destructive. Owners need to be active with the Corgi mixed with Border Collie. Owners must avoid leaving this hybrid dog alone at home for long periods, especially at a young age.
Here are some of the activities that a Border Collie Corgi cross will enjoy:
- Swimming
- Yard Play
- Long Walks
- Hiking
- Obstacle courses
- Play fetch
- Frisbee
- Herding
Border Collie Corgi Mix Training
The Border Collie mixed with Corgi loves to follow its owners everywhere. Its clingy nature shows in its eagerness to please its human family. The Corgi mixed with Border Collie will be a handful because of its high energy levels, but owners must understand that being there for their dogs is how they will gain its trust, especially during the early stages. Without proper training, the Border Collie Corgi cross tends to bark at strangers and chase any car passing by a fenceless space. Owners must teach this hybrid dog how to behave.
It is imperative for owners to teach the intelligent Corgi Border Collie the basic commands. If not adequately taught, the hybrid dog will try to live independently. Owners must also engage it in socialization training to avoid unnecessary barking at other pets around the house. It may be a bully around other animals, but it may be coming from the Corgi’s herding instincts.
Agility and obedience training will go a long way for the Border Collie Corgi mix. Agility training keeps the dog fit and healthy, while obedience training sharpens its mental intelligence and problem-solving. Always practice positive reinforcement when it comes to the Corgi Border Collie mix. It will respond well to owners’ commands and training if it receives rewards for doing a good job.
Border Collie Corgi Mix and Families
The Corgi and the Border Collie are among two of the most popular family household pets in the US, which makes crossbreeding an obvious option. Both are also known for being good with playful kids.
The Corgi gained fame because of its most famous breed, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Farmers need a dog that can help keep cattle in a restricted space and discover that the Corgi is the right partner for the task. The Corgi nipped on the other animals’ ankles to move them to a designated area. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi soon rose to popularity because it became United Kingdom Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite pet. In 1934, the American Kennel Club recognized the Corgi breed as purebred.
On the other hand, the medium-sized Border Collie is famous for being a herding dog for sheep. It is a descendant of a lot of British sheep herding dogs. Its difference from other herding breeds is that it does not bark or nip at sheep while herding. It is an extremely intelligent dog. In 1995, the American Kennel Club formally acknowledged the Border Collie. Like the Corgi, the Border Collie is also a favorite of another iconic British royalty, Queen Victoria, who is known for being a dog lover.
The Border Collie Corgi mix can be a great family pet because of its intelligence, protective instincts, and loyalty. While its energetic nature may be troublesome for other families, it can thrive on itself and feel comfortable with napping with its human packs.
Corgi Border Collie Mix FAQ
What is the same about Corgi and Collie?
Both Corgis and Border Collies share qualities such as intelligence, agility, and loyalty. Combining these traits in a Corgi Border Collie mix results in a clever and devoted companion with a distinctive appearance.
How long do Border Collies live?
Border Collies typically have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Providing proper care, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups contribute to their overall health and longevity.
How much does a Border Collie cost?
The cost of a Border Collie can vary based on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, and location. On average, Border Collie puppies may range from $600 to $1,200 or more, depending on individual circumstances.
How long do Border Collies live (repeated question for clarity)?
Border Collies generally live between 12 to 15 years. Quality care, a nutritious diet, and regular veterinary attention contribute to their long and healthy lifespan.
How much do Border Collie puppies cost?
Border Collie puppies’ cost can vary, ranging from $600 to $1,200 or more, depending on factors like breeder reputation, lineage, and geographic location. It’s crucial to choose a reputable breeder prioritizing the health and well-being of their dogs.
Can a Border Collie live in an apartment?
While Border Collies are energetic and intelligent dogs, living in an apartment is feasible with proper exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks, playtime, and engaging activities are essential to meet their physical and mental needs in an apartment setting.
References:
- Morita, Tomoya, et al. “Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Unclassified Interstitial Lung Disease in a Pembroke Welsh Corgi.” Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, vol. 80, no. 6, 23 Apr. 2018, pp. 939–944., doi:10.1292/jvms.17-0716.
- Pugh, Carys A, et al. “Arginine to Glutamine Mutation in Olfactomedin-like 3 (OLFML3) Is a Candidate for Severe Goniodysgenesis and Glaucoma in the Border Collie Dog Breed.” 14 Aug. 2018, doi:10.1101/321406.
- Harper, Deborah S. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Howell Book House, 1999.
- Turner, Neville. Border Collie. Country, 2014.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Border_Collie
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Welsh_Corgi
