What do you get if you cross a Corgi with a Poodle dog? A CorgiPoo!
This dog breed is sometimes referred to as a:
- Corgi-Poodle mix,
- Poodle Corgi mix,
- Corgi Mix dog,
- Designer Corgi
- Corgi doodle
The Corgi Poodle Mix is a friendly and intelligent, curly-haired, small mixed-breed dog with a high energy level.
This small hybrid dog can be stubborn and doesn’t like rules too much but it is affectionate and protective of its loved ones.
A Corgi Poodle Mix is good around children and other animals which makes it an ideal family pet and suitable for any experience of dog owner.
Who could resist a cute little Corgipoo puppy?
A brief history of the Corgi Poodle Mix dog
The Corgipoo is a mixed-breed dog blending two different parent breeds; a Corgi parent and a Poodle parent.
When two purebred dogs are intentionally mixed the result is known as a Designer Dog. The Corgipoo falls into this new designer dog category as it is the product of cross-breeding a purebred Corgi dog with a purebred Poodle dog.
The Corgipoo crossbreed is a playful and loving small dog breed. It is curious and sensitive in unfamiliar situations, and wary of strangers. This makes it suitable as a family pet and for anyone who wants a loving but noisy mini watchdog.
Corgipoo designer dogs come in a variety of coat colors and types, depending on the parent mix.
If they inherit most of their coat characteristics from the Poodle parent their coat will have short curly-hair, that’s hypoallergenic with less matting; this makes them a popular breed for a wider range of dog owners, especially those with allergies or those living in small houses.
This hybrid dog is likely to inherit more of the classic stature of the Corgi parent– the long sturdy body and short legs.
The mixed-breed Corgipoo will certainly have high energy and stamina and be an intelligent dog, thanks to both parent breeds.
The History of the Parent Breeds:
The Corgi parent – a purebred dog
The purebred Corgi dog is traditionally a herding dog from Wales, in the United Kingdom, dating back to the 12th Century; it’s known for herding cattle and protecting farmyards.
There are two types of Welsh Corgi dog: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog. These two variations of Corgi dogs from Wales are not officially interbred.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has a broader chest and more powerful and elongated body, a wide low-set tail, and big round ears. It can have some blue color in its eyes. Its coat color can be Brown, Blue Merle, Black and White with Tan patches or Red and Sable with White patches.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a less broad chest, a curvier shape and a docked tail or even no tail. It has a fox-like face, with compact ears. They have no blue color in their eyes. Their coat color is only accepted in Sable, Red, Sable and Red mix with white patches.
Both types of Welsh Corgi dogs have short legs and although this is a cute characteristic feature it’s due to a form of dwarfism and cause problems in the legs later in life.
Fact: Queen Elizabeth II, of the United Kingdom, is a big fan of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed and has owned several during her reign.
Both the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog breeds have strong front legs, a thick double coat, and great stamina which made them suitable as early herding dogs across the different terrain in Wales.
Both Welsh Corgi dog breeds tend to have good temperaments and make loyal companions or family pets.
Fact: It is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi that is mainly cross bred with a Miniature sized poodle to create the majority of the Corgipoo dogs. This is possibly because they are of similar sizes. It is possible for the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the other two sizes of Poodle dogs – the Toy and the Standard sized Poodle dog- to be mixed, but this is less common.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a very popular breed of dog and ranks as the 13th most popular purebred dog breed in the US according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The Poodle parent – a purebred dog
The Poodle, although it is considered the national dog of France it actually has its origins in Germany.
A Poodle is a small dog that is increasing in popularity as the ideal partner in any designer dog combination; known as the Doodle range of dogs which includes the Corgi Doodle, Husky Doodle, and the Dachshund Doodle.
The Poodle is ranked the 7th most popular dog in the US by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The purebred Poodle dog has 3 recognized sizes: the Toy Poodle, the Miniature Poodle, and the Standard Poodle.
The Poodle Parent (usually a Miniature Poodle) is friendly and hypoallergenic with little matting, this makes them an ideal indoor or outdoor dog due to their low maintenance; they are particularly suitable for city or apartment living.
They have an easy-going and relaxed approach. They are good-natured and love nothing more than to curl up with their family member and go to sleep, especially on their bed!
The resulting mixed breed dog – The Corgi Poodle Mix
The Corgi Poodle Mix is not a purebred dog breed is therefore not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and does not have a breed standard.
However as both parents are purebred dogs, both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog and the Poodle Dog, are recognized and ranked by the AKC.
The Corgi Poodle Mix breed dog is however recognized by the Dog Registry of America (DRA).
The Corgipoo– possible coat colors
As the Corgipoo is a mixed-breed dog, its appearance is more difficult to predict than a purebred dog.
Considering the parent breeds, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Poodle dog breeds, there are a combination of possible coat colors for this dog breed, including White, Fawn, Cream, Tan, Gray, Red, Black Sable, and Brown. Sometimes it can have a combination of White coloring on its chest with another color dominant on the rest of the coat.
What are the main characteristics of a Corgipoo?
Like any other crossbred dog, Corgi-Poodle mix dogs can inherit the characteristics of either parent or both.
It is sometimes thought that crossbred dogs are more likely to inherit health problems than purebred dogs; however, a puppy mixed dog can inherit all, some or none of the health problems its parent breeds have. There is another belief that crossbred dogs are actually stronger and less likely to inherit health problems like their parent breeds.
Fact: Not all dogs from mixed breeds inherit 50% of their characteristics from one parent and 50% from the other. It can be heavily weighted towards the characteristics of one parent more than the other.
With any mixed breed dog, you just have to wait and see how it turns out.
The Corgipoo puppy tends to have more of the classic appearance and build of the standard corgi but with the facial features of a Poodle.
The characteristics of a Corgipoo will be a combination of nature and nurture: genetics of the mix of parents, the environment and the quality, type and timing of training and socialization all have a part to play in forming the personality and behavior.
Loyalty and companionship
Any Corgi mix is likely to be loyal and have a loving temperament when trained and socialized properly. They will make a very caring and protective companion, for any dog lover. They can form a strong bond with their owner, and enjoy other company but may become clingy and suffer when not in the company of their family.
Reputation:
The Corgipoo is actually a fearless little dog with a fairly even temper. They are stubborn and with their high energy level, they will need effort and attention. They can be destructive if bored so you will need lots of patience with this small dog.
This Corgi Doodle dog is a cute mix of two soft and sweet little dogs. Their small size should not be mistaken for weakness as they are actually highly intelligent, curious, and will be protective of their family.
Popularity:
When you mix two highly popular and best loved dogs, the resulting hybrid, especially a designer Doodle dog will be highly desirable but expensive!
This mixed Corgi and Poodle breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as it is not a purebred dog. It is gaining popularity according to the Dog Registry of America (DRA) that tracks the popularity of crossbreed dogs.
This breed of dog does not inherit a prey instinct from either the Welsh Corgi or the Poodle parent so it can be trusted around children and other small animals.
Trainability:
A Corgipoo is an outgoing and sometimes a headstrong little dog that’s curious and intelligent. It can sometimes be a troublemaker too.
It, therefore, needs to be trained and socialized as early as possible. It will be alert and suspicious of strangers and may bark, so it should be trained not to bark when it feels like it.
So to keep this cute little dog in check it will need, incorporated control during playtime, to limit boredom and not allow it to refuse to cooperate.
The trainability of this intelligent Corgi and Poodle cross dog will be quite easy if you’re patient. Positive reinforcement and small treats will work well with this dog but not harsh control, any form of negative punishment or physical restraint as it may just refuse to work with you.
A Corgipoo puppy is energetic and mischievous, so to prevent troublesome behavior it needs around one hour of daily exercise or activities.
Power and intelligence:
They are clever, alert and will like to have a purpose when being trained. It’s not the easiest dog breed to train as it’s strong-willed, can be inflexible and bores easily.
They will love challenges involving mental and physical stimulation, otherwise, they may misbehave.
Socialization:
Early socialization and learning discipline are strongly recommended for clever and energetic crossbred dogs. Hybrid dogs with two intelligent parents will be strong-willed and want to be kept active and useful.
This is not the dog for you if you cannot give it lots of attention. This little mixed dog breed craves company and can be clingy and can suffer from separation anxiety if separated from its owner for a long time.
When trained and socialized the Corgipoo will be approachable and friendly around children and other animals.
Behavior:
This mixed breed dog needs to be kept busy with lots of physical activity as it can easily and will become destructive, or bark if under-stimulated or provoked.
Physical Characteristics of a Corgipoo
The Corgipoo is a sturdy and active small dog that is family-friendly. The actual size and weight depends on whether the mother is a Corgi or Poodle
Male | Female | |
---|---|---|
Height | small-sized | small-sized |
Size | 10-20” (25-50cm) | 10-20” (25-50cm) |
Weight | 12-40lb (5-18kg) | up to 34lb (15kg) |
Lifespan | 12-14 years | 12-14 years |
Litter Size | Corgi (dam) 6-8, puppies/litter Poodle (dam) 2-12 puppies/litter |
Eyes: Black or Brown
Ears: Floppy and upright
Coat: Dense – short or medium length, double coat, wavy appearance, water-resistant and hypoallergenic
Shed: Light to moderate
Color: The coat color is influenced by both parents, and can be a combination of White, Cream, Tan, Fawn, Sable, Black and Silver or Red or even merle.
Temperament:
The Corgi doodle is cute, outgoing, friendly, curious, but can be aloof and sensitive around strangers. It’s playful and affectionate with a cheeky side and can be mischievous and likes lots of playtime and fun.
How should you train a Corgi Poodle Mix?
A Corgi Poodle mix is agile and energetic with lots of stamina, but stubborn and easily bored. Training needs to reflect the high energy level, intelligence and curious nature of this dog.
The boundaries need to be set early for this mixed breed dog. Fun and positive reinforcement and reward-based training work best, including firm instructions but not aggressive commands.
A Corgipoo loves to be able to run around, and have lots of physical and mental challenges to stimulate their interest.
Various types of training are required: obedience, discipline, agility, and socialization.
So, if you are not going to use a professional dog trainer:
1) Develop your basic command words: Find keywords such as Stop, Sit, Down etc. and be consistent each time you use them with positive reinforcement and small treats as a reward
2) Crate – Buy a crate and gently get this puppy used to going into it. This will eventually become its nest and it will sleep there. You will have to lock the cage in the early days so it knows it has to sleep there and it’s useful to experience when you need to transport the dog.
3) Potty training – this can be hit and miss for any new puppy who gets easily excited and lacks control, however products are available, such as mats and odor sprays to attract puppy go to the same spot each time. Eventually, the puppy with your help will learn where and where not to go. They will soon become creatures of habit and regulate their need and place to use.
4) Walking on a leash – Voice commands and road safety awareness is important for a very active puppy’s safety.
Health problems and health issues
What health issues can a Corgipoo suffer from?
Hip Dysplasia (and elbow dysplasia) – common in both Corgi and Poodle dog breeds. Hip dysplasia is an incurable mal-formation of the hip joint, where the ball at the top of the leg doesn’t fit properly into the socket and attaching ligaments are weakened. Elbow dysplasia is where the 3 small bones in the elbow deform or break off causing pain.
Early warning signs are visual stiffness then walking, difficulty getting up when prompted and a difference in walking style; limping or caution walking.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – a serious eye condition. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a wasting and deterioration of the photoreceptor cells in the retina, can lead to blindness.
Achondroplasia Dwarfism – a form of dwarfism causing the corgi’s legs to be too short in proportion with the bulk of its body.
Therefore, because of this form of dwarfism in most Corgi mixes, like the Corgipoo, they can suffer from back, spine and even spinal cord problems can develop into Canine Degenerative myelopathy; a serious progressive spinal cord disorder.
They are also prone to Ear infections, Von Willebrand Disease – a blood disorder, Addison’s disease – a hormonal disease, and Kidney problems.
A Corgipoo will need regular health check-ups
How do you care for a Corgipoo?
Exercise needs
This mixed-breed dog needs lots of mixed exercise blending fun and challenges, but as a small dog it should be split across the day.
Feeding
Feed as a small-sized dog, twice a day, 1 cup of Kibble formulated dog food and encouraged to eat slowly, possibly using a slow feeding bowl to prevent bloat.
Grooming
This mixed breed dog has a double coat, the outer coat is thick and protective and the inner coat is curly, soft, short and water-resistant; a light to moderate shedder, requiring daily brushing to keep it healthy and conditioned.
Bathing
This dog should be bathed when required but not too often as their coat has natural oils that are stripped through excessive washing. Certain dog formulated shampoos have a double effect of cleaning the dog coat and protecting it against fleas and insect bites.
Cleaning teeth, nails, and ears
As with all dogs, their teeth need to be cleaned regularly to prevent a build-up of plaque. Chewing breaks down plaque, so use doggie chew-toys, bare-bones and soft toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Nails grow quickly and need to be trimmed regularly, say once a month, and checked for debris that could cause infection.
What’s life like for a Corgipoo?
Lifestyle
It’s highly energetic and likes physical and mental challenges and playtime. Once socialized and obedience trained it will be friendly and obey commands, but can be aloof around strangers.
They need to keep active and will chew things or bark if left alone so they need to be kept company, stimulated, and busy. Chew toys can help with boredom.
This Corgi Poodle mix breed will be very protective of its family so it needs to be trained to adapt to strangers when young.
Positives and Negatives of ownership
Positives
- Alert, protective and bonds strongly with family
- Suitable for any size of home or owner
- Intelligent and affectionate
- A very energetic dog with great stamina
- Calm and lovable temperament
- Makes a good watchdog for a family
Negatives
- Destructive if left alone, will bite and chew things
- Aloof with strangers
- Can be clingy and suffer separation anxiety
- Can be stubborn
- Training requires patience
- High maintenance – daily intensive grooming
- Commonly Asked Questions:
Q: What is the proper name of the Corgi Doodle dog?
A. It’s a Corgi Poodle Mix but sometimes called a Corgipoo or a Corgi doodle.
Q. How much does a designer Corgi Poodle Mix puppy cost?
A. Buying a Corgipoo puppy from a reputable dealer will cost around $300-$1000, the Poodle mix is even more expensive.
An alternative is to adopt a dog from a rescue center – puppy or adult. The cost of adopting a rescue dog is much less than from a breeder.
Warning: Do your research for finding a reputable breeder or a rescue center and if possible visit both! Ask if there’s any history of abuse, neglect, personality, behavior, or any other available details of the temperament or health issues of the parents.
Food costs around $20-$30 per month for an adult, and given all their possible health problems you must factor in Vets fees, medication and accessories from a retailer like amazon.