26-40 lbs
13-20"
Unknown
Playful, energetic, and affectionate, the Corgi Cattle Dog is a medium-sized hybrid breed that was developed from the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Australian Cattle Dog. The Corgi Cattle Dog is a mostly silent dog and will not present as a nuisance with much barking. This exuberant breed usually inherits the short legs of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi as well as its barrel-shaped body. While he may attempt more than he can physically do, this active canine is adept at herding cattle. His intelligent nature and ability to work alone makes him a favorable choice for workers. The Corgi Cattle Dog is considered an on-the-move breed and requires extra exercise to maintain his health.
The Corgi Cattle Dog's origins are not well-documented and not much information is known about them to date. In order to better understand how the breed came to exist, it is essential to review its parent breeds – the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Australian Cattle Dog. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a tail-less breed that originated from Pembrokeshire, Wales. The name “Corgi” is attributed to the Celtic word for “dog”. This breed is believed to have been developed around the 10th century. Initially, farmers desired a dog that would effectively drive cattle and herd successfully. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was adored for his ability to bite the ankles of the cattle, encouraging the animal to move. Welsh farmers decided that the breed should be used throughout the area farms and allowed the breed to drive cattle around the fields. There was a time when grazing land became competitive and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was used to define areas. Queen Elizabeth II is known to love the breed and ensures the palace is always stocked with the breed. In 1934, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The Australian Cattle Dog was created as a result of a need for a breed that could withstand tough environmental factors. George Elliott of Queensland is credited with crossing Dingoes to the extinct Smithfield dog, and then with the blue-merle Highland Collie. At the time, the breed was outstanding with his abilities to work in the field. The breed eventually became known as Blue Heelers and Queensland Blue Heelers before the name was changed to Australian Cattle Dog. In 1897, Robert Kaleski began to show the breed and developed a breed standard by 1902. In 1903, the breed standard was accepted by the Cattle and Sheep Dog Club of Australia and the Kennel Club of New South Wales. In 1980, the AKC officially recognized the breed.
The Corgi Cattle Dog varies in appearance and can take on traits from either parent breed. Since this breed is a hybrid breed, each individual dog can take on different coat types and colors. Some may strongly resemble the Pembroke Welsh Dog while others may resemble the Australian Cattle Dog. Generally, the breed will be medium in size and have a barrel-shaped body. This short breed will have erect and pointy ears and a short, dense coat. Color combinations can vary between tan and white. The tail is usually carried parallel to his chest. The eye colors can range from dark brown to the occasional ice blue.
Both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Australian Cattle Dog are known to blow coats moderately. The combination of both parent breeds creates a higher than usual shedding level. Extra attention should be given to this breed's coat. Brush with a rubber curry brush or a slicker brush for about 15 to 20 minutes per day to eliminate loose fur and remove dirt or burrs that may be picked up in the field. The nails of this busy breed should be checked often to ensure breakage does not occur and the footpads may need attending if they become dry or cracked. As with all breeds, be sure to attend to the teeth on a regular basis to avoid dental issues. Bathing should not be needed that often unless your hybrid rolls in something unpleasant while on a break from his daily tasks.
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The Corgi Cattle Dog has a high prey drive and will need early training and guidance so that he can welcome other dogs or pets into his life. This stubborn canine is known to be highly independent and will require mental challenges and intense play to keep him engaged. The Corgi Cattle Dog is friendly towards his family as well as children but may require extra precaution with those he does not know. He may act aloof towards strangers and will benefit from socialization with humans and animals alike in order to distinguish the difference between friendly strangers and unwelcome intruders. When in herding mode, your Corgi Cattle Dog may nip due to his innate instincts. Your best bet is to ensure he has a job to do in order to remain mentally stimulated. He may benefit from Frisbee, flyball, running, swimming, and multiple walks per day. His high energy level demands extensive exercise daily. Due to his stubborn nature, it is important to be able to provide your dog with positive reinforcement and treats when teaching him proper behavior.
Your lively dog will benefit from 60 minutes of activity on a daily basis such as frisbee, flyball, fetching, tugging, swimming, and running. Some canines of this breed may demand more. Multiple walks per day give you a content hybrid. The ideal environment for your Corgi Cattle Dog would consist of a large rural home in a warm climate. Apartment living is not a favorable option due to his high energy levels. A safe area for him to roam in and to explore will be necessary; this hybrid is used to working, and work he must. Obedience classes may be a good challenge for him as would agility trials. This hybrid does well in all climates though a temperate one is best.
Written by Darlene Stott
Published: 11/01/2017, edited: 12/09/2021
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