Cowboy Corgi: Everything You Need To Know! + Owner Q&A

A Cowboy Corgi is a crossbreed dog created by breeding a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and an Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler). They are energetic and intelligent dogs, but the breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Cowboy Corgis have become quite popular in recent years. They are the result of mixing a Pembroke Welsh Corgi with an Australian Cattle Dog, which is just as energetic as it sounds! While they are lovely bundles of joy, there are some ethical concerns that need to be addressed. 

Designer dogs (or hybrids) have led to a surge in backyard breeders, and so many people are jumping to get a puppy because it’s a cute crossbreed without considering what each of the parent breeds is. You really have to be prepared for how mentally and physically active this crossbreed is.

In this article, we’ll find out more about the Cowboy Corgi, their common traits, what you can expect from them, and the importance of responsible breeding. After all, getting a dog is a big decision and an even bigger commitment. 

Key Takeaways

• Cowboy Corgis are a popular crossbreed, or hybrid breed 
• They are energetic, intelligent, and loving 
• It’s not possible to predict which health conditions they will be more prone to 
• Cowboy Corgis are a lot of work, so it’s important to ensure they are right for you
• Always make sure you choose a responsible and reputable breeder

I spoke to the owner of Ollie the Cowboy Corgi to get her firsthand experience about what it’s like to be a Cowboy Corgi mom. Jump straight to the Q&A!

What Is A Cowboy Corgi?

As with any crossbreed, you’re never sure what they’re going to look like. They might have stronger Corgi traits, or there might be more Australian Cattle Dog in them. All Cowboy Corgis look a little different, but that’s part of their charm. It’s a wonderful raffle for which dominant features each litter will inherit from their parents. Here are a few adorable examples for you. 

The Cowboy Corgi is the result of breeding together a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and an Australian Cattle dog (also known as the Blue Heeler or Queensland Heeler). They have become very popular recently, despite the fact that the American Kennel Club doesn’t recognise the breed due to it being a hybrid. But from the photos, it’s easy to see why they’re stealing hearts. 

There has been a lot of experimentation with mixing breeds in recent years, the ethics of which we will look into later, and new hybrid breeds have been emerging as a result. It’s hardly a new phenomenon. Queen Elizabeth II crossed her Corgis with Dachshunds to make Dorgis. But even if Cowboy Corgis are the cutest thing ever, responsible breeding always comes first. 

Common Cowboy Corgi Traits

Cowboy Corgis are highly intelligent and very energetic dogs. Both parent breeds are the same way, which means you’re more than likely to end up with a very smart dog who’ll get into trouble if not properly stimulated. They need a lot of physical exercise, but they also need plenty of brain games to keep their minds active. 

Since both parent breeds are herding dogs, you’re going to end up with a lot of stubbornness and heel nipping if you don’t train them from a young age. Similarly, they can end up territorial if they aren’t properly socialized as early as possible. But they are also loyal and affectionate, and like their parent breeds, they love nothing more than a good cuddle (usually on their terms!).

Stanley Coren, a psychology professor, neuropsychological researcher, and writer on the intelligence of dogs, ranked Australian Cattle Dogs as the 10th most intelligent dog breed in the world. Pembroke Welsh Corgis follow closely behind in 11th place.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs. Australian Cattle Dog

Getting to know each of the parent breeds a little better is vital if you want to understand what your Cowboy Corgi might be like. It’s possible for them to inherit each of the personality traits of their parent breeds in varying degrees. In some, the Corgi genes might be stronger, and in others, the Australian Cattle Dog might be more prominent. 

Cowboy Corgi vs. Pembroke Corgi

Similarly, there are differences between a Cowboy Corgi and a Pembroke Corgi that should be noted before you decide if this is the right breed for you. This is especially true if there are specific features or traits that you don’t think you can handle in your next pup. 

Cowboy Corgi Appearance

Generally speaking, Cowboy Corgis  have a long body and short legs, weigh between 26 and 39 pounds, and measure 12 to 20 inches in length. Their fur comes in various colors, including red, blue, black, sable, and merle, with a double coat that requires regular grooming and brushing to reduce shedding.

Health Risks & Concerns For Cowboy Corgis

With regard to ethical concerns, the largest one is the fact that there is a noticeable difference in size and stature between the parent breeds. This can cause complications throughout the pregnancy as well as during labor, which puts the mother at risk. 

By mixing them together, there’s a good chance that Cowboy Corgis will inherit genetic diseases passed down by one or both breeds. For example, ACDs are prone to health conditions such as deafness, progressive retinal atrophy, and hip dysplasia. Corgis are also prone to hip dysplasia, as well as degenerative myelopathy and von Willebrand’s disease.

With a purebred dog like a Pembroke Welsh Corgi or an Australian Cattle Dog, the potential health problems are more predictable and therefore preventable. The same cannot be said for a crossbreed like a Cowboy Corgi.

A reputable breeder will screen for all possible health conditions and provide you with evidence of the results. But because these tests are expensive, many backyard breeders (people who breed dogs unsafely) will skip them altogether.

The Danger Of Irresponsible Cowboy Corgi Breeding

When two different purebred dogs are bred, they create what’s known as a designer dog (sometimes known as a hybrid). It’s a craze that has led to people breeding for profit and without any real care for the puppies. After all, ethical breeders rarely make any money on their litters. Cowboy Corgis are one of many designer dogs. 

It’s all about looks and aesthetic instead of temperament, or it is done to strengthen a specific trait. This is exactly what happened with Labradoodles (Lab X Poodle), which were initially bred together to create a hypoallergenic dog for a blind woman whose husband was allergic to dog hair. However, it led to the original breeder, Wally Conron, regretting what he’d done.

He calls it the greatest regret of his life because the Labradoodle created a frenzy of crossbreeding for fashion purposes. It led to backyard breeding and irresponsible people crossing breeds that don’t have complementary traits. Prioritizing looks over health has led to a crisis within the dog world, and designer breeders are usually all about the money. 

How To Find An Ethical Cowboy Corgi Breeder

An ethical breeder is non-negotiable if you decide you want a Cowboy Corgi. This means someone who allows you to meet the mother (and the father in some cases), visit the litter, and can show you proof of health screenings for both parents. The puppies should also be born and raised in a home environment. 

Factors to consider when selecting a breeder:

• Evidence of health screenings for both parent breeds
• Transparent communication about potential health concerns
• Emphasis on ethical breeding practices and animal welfare

An ethical breeder will also screen you to ensure you are the right fit for the breed. They are very active dogs, and they need a lot of care and exercise. In addition to at least an hour of walking a day, they need mental exercise to stay stimulated and happy. Cowboy Corgis are a big responsibility that you have to be ready to take on. 

Pros & Cons of Owning a Cowboy Corgi

As with any dog, there are good and bad sides to owning a specific breed or mix. If you’re considering a Cowboy Corgi, there are some strong pros and cons that should help you decide if it’s going to be the right dog for you. 

Cowboy Corgi Pros:

• They are super active and make great companions for those who love to run, hike, or spend time outdoors.
• They tend to be very loyal and affectionate dogs, especially if the Corgi gene is stronger than the Australian Cattle Dog. They also make great family pets. 
• They are highly intelligent dogs who are quick to learn and respond well to positive reinforcement. 
• They have a strong working drive and aim to please, which makes them biddable and fairly easy to train (outside of the classic Corgi stubbornness). 

Cowboy Corgi Cons:

• Since they are mixed-breed dogs, it is possible for Cowboy Corgis to be more prone to health conditions and genetic illnesses from both parent breeds. 
• Their high energy levels mean that they can become destructive when bored as well as restless, which can cause excessive barking. They need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay calm. 
• Australian Cattle Dogs have a strong prey drive, and Corgis have an exceptional herding instinct. In order to stop them from becoming territorial or bored, it is vital that they are socialized early and that you stay on top of training. 

Should You Get a Cowboy Corgi?

You’ve had a lot of information to digest, and if a Cowboy Corgi feels right for you after reading through all of the pros and cons, then you can start researching reputable breeders. However, it should be noted that Cowboy Corgis aren’t the best choice for first-time dog owners, and if that’s you, then it might be better to go with the Corgi instead. 

Not only do you have a wide variety of reputable breeders to choose from, but you also get a dog with more predictable traits. This makes training easier, and it means that you have a clearer idea of what you’re getting into. Cowboy Corgis are wonderful, but they also need more work put into them. 

Some of the most common traits you can expect to find in a Corgi include:

• Stubbornness
• Affection
• Loyalty
• High energy levels
• Intelligence
• Adaptability
• Regular shedding (furnami’s all the time, but we love them)

Q&A with Ollie The Cowboy Corgi’s owner!

To find out exactly what it’s like to own a Cowboy Corgi, I spoke to Rachel, who is the proud mom of Ollie.

Can you share the story of how you got Ollie?

It was early December of 2020. A friend and I went to an Amish market in Wyoming to see what they had. On my way there, my friend told me that they sell Corgi puppies (fully knowing how much I love Corgis and how badly I wanted one).

When we got to the market, I saw a beautiful Cowboy Corgi and fell in love. I went into the store to ask one of the owners if the puppy was still for sale. She told me that someone had already put a deposit on that puppy. I asked if they had any other Cowboy Corgis that were for sale. She let me know that they had a new litter two days prior.

The new litter had 1 male and 2 females. I asked her to see the male. He was a little bit bigger than a hamster and had a little black ear. I told her that I wanted him. Every week after that, I visited Ollie at the market until he was old enough to come home with me.

What’s Ollie like? Can you tell us more about his personality?

He has a great personality! He’s very sweet and loves his family. He loves to meet new people and dogs as well. Ollie is very active and enjoys playing fetch with me and being chased by his dad around the couch.

His favorite activities are fetch and being chased. Whenever he plays with dogs, he wants them to chase him (which is funny to watch). Compared to other Corgis, Ollie is very quiet. He’s only vocal when he’s excited and playing. I wouldn’t say he is stubborn; however, he pouts SO much when he has to do something he doesn’t want to. He’s just a little sweet potato.

What’s your favorite thing about owning a Cowboy Corgi?

The personality. I love how friendly, smart, and sweet he is. 

How much does he shed?

LOL, a lot. He usually gets brushed and has a bath about 1-2 times per month. I clip his nails monthly and cut his butt fluff every few months. 

How much energy has he got?

He has a good amount of energy. He typically plays fetch twice a day, goes on a 15-minute walk, and plays with his dad in the evening. When we go on long hikes/walks, he can typically do about 4 miles before getting tired. 

What would you say to someone thinking about getting a Cowboy Corgi?

I would say to think about if you have enough time and commitment. Thankfully, I work from home, so I can play with Ollie multiple times per day.

However, if he had to be in a pen while I was at work, I know he would be very sad. It also took about 1.5-2 years to train him and get his manners to where they are now. It took a lot of time and effort to train him to be as good as he is. So, if someone has the time and commitment then I would say to get one!

The final thing I’ll say is that when it comes to Corgis, their diet and nutrition are huge. Corgis love food and can easily become overweight. I have to limit Ollie’s treats to make sure that he doesn’t gain weight.

We also weigh out his food for each meal so that he’s on a consistent diet. I think this is important for people to know who are considering getting any type of Corgi.

Go follow the adventures of Ollie the Cowboy Corgi over on Instagram!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the lifespan of a Cowboy Corgi?

Cowboy Corgis tend to live between 12 and 15 years of age, which is on par with both the Pembroke Corgi and the Australian Cattle Dog. 

Where Can I Find Cowboy Corgi Puppies For Sale?

Look for reputable breeders who focus on the health and temperament of their dogs. There should also be recent health tests for you to view freely for both parents, and you should be able to meet the mother first. Online resources like the American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace or local breed clubs can be helpful in finding responsible breeders.

How does a Cowboy Corgi compare to a regular Corgi?

Cowboy Corgis have many of the traits found in a Pembroke Corgi and an Australian Cattle Dog. They are adventurous, loving, energetic, and always ready to work. The big difference is that Cowboy Corgis tend to be a little quieter. 

Are Cowboy Corgis Good Family Dogs?

Cowboy Corgis are fantastic family dogs. They are filled with love, have loads of energy, and make for loving companions that get along well with children and adults. Of course, training is very important, and it will play a large role in how well they adapt to family life. 

Are Cowboy Corgis affectionate pets?

As Pembroke Welsh Corgis and ACDs are affectionate, Cowboy Corgis are likely to be affectionate too. However, as with any breed, early socialization and consistent training are essential to ensure a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog.

Final Thoughts 

Cowboy Corgis can make fantastic family pets. They are wonderful dogs and filled with boundless energy that makes them especially suited to an active household. However, as with any dog (regardless of whether they are mixed or purebred), it’s important to be responsible and ethical. Always choose a responsible breeder and do your research first.