How Much Is A Corgi Husky Mix
PETSIDI – The corgi husky mix, also known as a Horgi or Siborgi, is a popular hybrid dog breed that combines the Pembroke Welsh corgi and the Siberian husky. This crossbreed mixes the best traits of both parent breeds to create an adorable, friendly, and playful dog. But how much does a corgi husky mix cost to buy or adopt? Let’s take a look at the key factors that determine the price of a corgi husky puppy or adult dog.
Origin and History
The corgi husky mix is a relatively new designer dog breed that was developed in the last couple of decades through the deliberate crossing of purebred corgis and huskies. As a hybrid dog, it does not have a long documented history, but its purebred parents – the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Siberian Husky – have rich histories that shed light on the traits and temperament of the corgi husky cross.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis have been bred as herding dogs in Wales since the 10th century. They are an ancient breed thought to have origins in Viking dogs brought to Wales. With their short legs and cuddly body, they made excellent cattle herders. The Siberian Husky is an ancient sled dog bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia. With their thick coat, endurance, and strong work ethic, Huskies pulled sleds over long distances in frigid Arctic temperatures.
When these two pure breeds are crossed, the goal is to blend the best qualities of both dogs. The corgi husky aims to be a companionable house pet with the intelligence and trainability of both parent breeds. Their moderate energy makes them ideally suited to modern households.
Appearance and Size
In terms of appearance, the corgi husky mix can vary significantly since it is a crossbreed. No two corgi husky puppies in a litter will look exactly alike. However, there are some general physical traits we can expect in these designer dogs.
- Size: The corgi husky will typically weigh between 20-50 pounds and stand 13-15 inches tall. They are considered a medium-sized dog.
- Coat: Most corgi huskies will have a thick double coat like a husky. The coat is medium to long and can be straight or wavy. Common coat colors include black, brown, red, grey, cream, and white. Merle or brindle coats can also occur.
- Face and Ears: The corgi husky usually has upright, triangular husky-like ears. Facial features tend to blend both breeds, with the corgi’s fox-like face combined with husky facial markings. Expressive eyes are common.
- Body: The body shape of a corgi husky mix can vary greatly. Some look like a corgi with longer legs while others take after the husky’s build. Most will be moderate in build, falling somewhere between both parents.
Since the corgi husky mix is a crossbreed, there are no strict breed standards for size or appearance. Litters can have very diverse looks. The parents’ pedigrees heavily influence the puppies’ physical traits.
Temperament and Personality
While physical features can vary in corgi-husky mixes, their temperament tends to blend the best personality traits of both the corgi and husky. Here are some of the most common behavioral qualities seen in these dogs:
- Friendly: Corgi huskies tend to be very social, outgoing dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They crave attention, play, and family time. Proper training and socialization enhance their friendliness toward strangers.
- Intelligent: With smart and highly trainable parents like the corgi and husky, these hybrids are bright dogs. They enjoy learning new tricks, playing games, and finding ways to make their owners laugh.
- Alert: The corgi husky mix has strong watchdog instincts from both parent breeds. They will be aware of their surroundings and quick to alert owners to anything unusual. Early training helps manage unnecessary barking.
- Fun-Loving: A corgi husky will hardly ever turn down a game of fetch or belly rub. They are remarkably playful dogs that stay puppyish well into adulthood. Daily exercise and playtime are a must.
- Courageous: Don’t let their cute, cuddly size fool you – corgi huskies are brave dogs. The boldness of huskies combines with the spunk of corgis in these petite but daring pups.
With their endearing temperament, corgi husky mixes make wonderful family companions. Their moderate exercise needs and playful attitude are ideal for active owners. Proper training and socialization from puppyhood results in a polite and well-adjusted adult dog.
Grooming Needs and Shedding
One important factor to keep in mind with a corgi husky mix is their extensive grooming requirements. Since these dogs inherit a thick double coat from their Husky parent, they shed heavily year-round. Their medium-long coat also requires frequent brushing and occasional baths. Here are the main grooming needs of a corgi husky mix:
- Brushing: A corgi husky should be brushed 2-3 times per week using a slicker brush or undercoat rake. More frequent brushing is needed during seasonal shedding periods to remove loose hair.
- Bathing: Corgi huskies only need occasional baths, around once every 6-8 weeks. Overbathing can damage their coat’s natural oils. Use a moisturizing dog shampoo when washing.
- Nail Trimming: Trim your corgi husky’s nails as needed, typically every 3-4 weeks. If nails are not worn down naturally through activity, they will require regular clipping.
- Ear Cleaning: Check and wipe your corgi husky’s floppy ears weekly to prevent infections. Use a dog-safe ear cleanser and cotton balls to gently remove excess wax and debris.
- Shedding: Be prepared for significant year-round shedding and seasonal “blowing” of the coat. Having a vacuum and lint roller on hand is a good idea for husky mix owners!
While high-maintenance in terms of grooming, the lovely coat of a corgi husky mix is one of their most endearing physical traits. Putting in the grooming time results in a beautiful, fluffy companion!
Exercise and Activity Needs
Since the corgi husky mix comes from two energetic working breeds, they have moderate exercise requirements to stay fit and well-behaved. Without sufficient activity, these dogs are prone to nuisance behaviors like chewing, digging, and barking. Here are the ideal exercise needs for a corgi-husky mix:
- 30-60 Minutes per Day: Most corgi huskies need 30-60 minutes of energetic activity daily, ideally involving walks, runs, playtime, or structured exercise like agility. Puppies and adolescents need closer to 60 minutes.
- High Play Drive: In addition to structured exercise, corgi husky mixes thrive on free play and games. Fun activities like fetch, tug-of-war, and brain games help them stay stimulated.
- Leash Walks or Secure Yard: When outdoors, corgi huskies should always be leashed or within a securely fenced yard. Their curious, adventurous nature makes them prone to roaming and exploring if able to escape.
- Mental Stimulation: Clever crossbreeds like the corgi husky mix need mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise. Training, trick practice, puzzle toys, and other brain games are great supplemental activities.
- Adjust with Age: While young corgi huskies need vigorous exercise, adjust activity levels down for senior dogs or pets with health issues. Low-impact activities are better suited for older, less active dogs.
With the right blend of physical and mental stimulation each day, the energetic corgi husky mix makes a delightful, well-adjusted canine companion. An active family is ideal for keeping up with their needs.
Training Tips and Ease
From their intelligent purebred parents, corgi husky mixes are highly trainable dogs. Their eagerness to please and working dog origins make them responsive to positive training methods started early and consistently. Here are some top training tips for these mixes:
- Start Young: Begin basic obedience training with your corgi husky puppy as young as 8 weeks old using reward-based methods. Early socialization also helps temperament.
- Stay Positive: Motivate your corgi husky with praise, treats, play, and other rewards. These dogs are sensitive to corrections or punitive methods which may damage the human-canine bond.
- Focus on Basics: Key basic cues to master include sit, stay, down, come, heel, and leave. A solid foundation in obedience makes learning other skills easier.
- Use Their Smarts: Corgi huskies excel at learning tricks, agility skills, or other canine sports that challenge their intelligence and athleticism.
- Be Firm and Consistent: Set clear house rules and stick to them. While playful, corgi huskies need firm, dependable leadership from their humans.
- Prevent Boredom: Lack of exercise and mental stimulation leads to mischief in smart dogs like the corgi husky. Preventing boredom with activity and training prevents problem behaviors.
When raised with positive reinforcement training, consistent socialization, and firm leadership, the corgi husky mix is a joy to train. Their human-focused nature makes them eager students for owners willing to put in the time and effort.
Feeding and Diet
To keep your corgi husky mix healthy and energetic, it’s important to feed them a nutritious diet formulated for their age and activity level. Though relatively small dogs, corgi huskies have higher caloric needs than typical lapdogs or companion breeds. Here are some diet and feeding tips:
- High-Quality Kibble: Choose a premium brand dry kibble diet made for active medium-sized dogs. Avoid cheap big-box brands with low-quality ingredients.
- 1-2 Cups Per Day: The typical corgi husky will eat 1-2 cups of kibble per day, divided into 2 meals. Exact needs vary based on age, build, and activity level.
- Occasional Wet Food: Adding a spoonful of wet food to their kibble or as an occasional treat provides extra hydration and nutrition.
- Avoid Overfeeding: Measure meal sizes and avoid free-feeding to prevent obesity which strains joints and causes health issues.
- Digestive Care: Some corgi huskies inherit sensitive stomachs prone to gas or upset. Probiotic foods help support healthy digestion.
- Clean Water: Provide fresh clean water at all times and monitor intake. Increased thirst can indicate health problems in dogs.
- Treats in Moderation: Use healthy training treats like chopped fruits or veggies. Avoid excess pounds from fatty, high-calorie treats.
- Supplements if Needed: Discuss glucosamine or fish oil supplements with your vet for added joint, coat, or skin benefits.
Work with your veterinarian to tailor the ideal nutrition plan for your corgi husky at each life stage. Keeping these active hybrids fit and at a healthy weight is essential for their long-term health.
Health Issues
Like all hybrid dog breeds, the corgi husky mix has a blend of health strengths and weaknesses inherited from both parental lines. Reputable breeders carefully screen breeding dogs for major health issues. Here are the main health concerns to be aware of:
- Hip Dysplasia: Malformation of hip joints is common in corgis and larger dogs like huskies. OFA hip screening of parents helps minimize risk.
- Eye Problems: Inherited eye conditions like cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and corneal dystrophy can affect vision. Eye exams identify issues.
- Allergies: Environmental or food allergies resulting in skin issues or ear infections are prone to occur in corgi and husky mixes.
- Bloat: The deep chest of huskies predisposes this hybrid dog to dangerous gastric torsion bloat. Limit exercise after eating and use a slow-feed bowl.
- Obesity: Careful portion control and exercise are vital to prevent unhealthy weight gain in the corgi husky mix. Excess weight stresses joints.
With early health screening, careful breeding, proper preventative care, and nutrition, the corgi husky mix generally enjoys a long 13-15-year lifespan. Work closely with your veterinarian to stay on top of wellness exams and immunizations.
Finding a Corgi Husky Mix Puppy or Rescue
If you’ve decided the playful, silly corgi husky mix is the ideal dog for your family, here are some tips for finding one, either through a breeder or adoption:
- Reputable Breeders: Seek corgi husky breeders focused on temperament and health testing parents for inherited disease risks. Expect to pay $800-$1500 from quality breeders.
- Shelters and Rescues: Check both private breed-specific rescues or shelters for adoptable corgi husky mixes of any age. Adoption fees are usually under $400.
- Waitlists: Top corgi husky breeders often have long waitlists. Get on lists early and be patient with the availability of these popular mixed-breed puppies.
- Health Guarantee: Whether purchasing from a breeder or adopting, look for guarantees covering major health problems for at least 30-90 days.
- See Parents: When possible, try to meet at least one or both parents to assess temperament and inspect living conditions.
- Puppy Mills: Avoid supporting unethical hobby breeders or puppy mills. Stick to responsible breeders focused on dog welfare.
Take your time researching breeders and rescues to find the perfect corgi husky pup or adult dog to bring home. The right dog for your family is worth waiting for!
Is a Corgi Husky Mix the Right Dog For You?
Before deciding if a corgi husky mix is a right addition to your household, reflect carefully on whether your lifestyle, activity level, and commitment level make you an ideal owner. Here are a few final pros and cons to consider:
Pros of the Corgi Husky Mix:
- Playful, friendly temperament
- Super smart and highly trainable
- Moderate exercise needs
- Adapts well to apartment or home living
- Minimal health problems from responsible breeding
- Soft, cuddly, huggable coat
Potential Cons to Consider:
- Shedding will be significant year-round
- Prone to nuisance barking if bored
- Can be stubborn or strong-willed at times
- May inherit health issues like hip dysplasia
- Will not do well left alone for long periods
- Moderate likelihood of prey drive toward small pets
For active owners able to provide proper training, activity, companionship, and grooming, the corgi husky mix can be a wonderfully endearing hybrid dog. Take time to reflect on their needs and your lifestyle fit before committing. When raised in the right home, these dogs make delightful family pets!
Leave a Reply