The Corgi German Shepherd mix is a cross breed of either the Pembroke Welsh Corgi or the Cardigan Corgi, and a German Shepherd Dog.
Also known as Corman Shepherds, the Corgi German Shepherd Mix is clever,energetic and loyal, but often prone to disorders of the hips and spine.
Your Corgi German Shepherd Mix
Thinking about adding a Corgi German Shepherd mix to your family? The Corman Shepherd is a popular mixed breed dog, but is it the right choice for you?
There are lots of factors to consider when choosing your next dog, no matter what breed—or breeds—it is.
We’ll help you sort out all you need to know about the Corgi German Shepherd mix, from appearance to temperament to health.
We’ll also talk about how to find the perfect dog, whether you want a puppy from a breeder or an adoptable adult from a rescue.
Before looking at the mix, let’s take a quick look at the three (yes, three!) parent breeds.
Where Does the Corgi German Shepherd Mix Come From?
The Corman Shepherd is a cross between the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) and either the Pembroke Welsh Corgi or the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.
While similar in looks and temperament, the two Corgi types are separate breeds.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a bit more popular with dog lovers than the Cardigan and is often used in Corgi mixes. Of course, both Corgis can be crossed with the German Shepherd.
Corgis originated as small herding dogs in Wales. They were commonly used as cattle dogs, with their low stature allowing them to herd by nipping at the cattle’s heels.
The GSD also originated as a livestock herding and guardian dog. They quickly became a valued all-purpose working dog, excelling at all kinds of tasks from police and military work to a service dog.
When did the Mixing of the Corgi and German Shepherd Begin?
The development of the Corman Shepherd coincided with the growing popularity of mixed breed dogs over the past few decades.
Are mixed breed dogs a better choice than purebred dogs?
While it’s true that dogs with more diverse genetics can be healthier than purebreds, the health of any mixed breed depends on the health of its ancestors.
We’ll talk more about health later, but first, a few fun facts about this special dog!
Fun Facts About the Corgi German Shepherd Mix
Queen Elizabeth is probably the most famous Corgi fancier in the world, and she’s often been photographed with Corgis at her side.
The German Shepherd breed can be traced to a dog named Hector (later changed to Horand).
He was discovered at a dog show by the breed’s founder, Captain Max von Stephanitz, and registered as the first German Shepherd in 1889.
Corgi German Shepherd Mix Appearance
Many people are interested in the Corman Shepherd because they are seeking a smaller dog with the cute looks of the Corgi combined with the loyalty of the GSD.
As a mixed breed dog, it’s often hard to predict if a Corman Shepherd puppy will grow up to favor one parent breed’s appearance over the other.
The looks of the parent breeds can combine in many ways, as a quick Google image search will confirm!
Here’s a quick overview of the physical characteristics of each parent breed, followed by the mix.
German Shepherd Traits
An adult male German Shepherd weighs between 65 and 90 pounds and stands between 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
Females weigh 50 to 70 pounds and stand 22 to 24 inches tall.
GSDs have medium length double coats. Many coat colors and patterns are possible in the GSD, although the breed is most famous for its iconic black and tan markings.
Corgi Traits
Since the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is most often used in mixes, let’s look at its physical characteristics.
There is less size difference between male and female Pembrokes than with the GSD.
Both sexes stand between 10 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder. Males weigh up to 30 pounds and females up to 28 pounds.
Like the German Shepherd, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a medium length double coat.
Coat color can be sable, fawn, red, or black and tan. Pembrokes often have white markings on the face and body. What about the mix?
Corgi German Shepherd Mix Traits
Keep in mind that size, coat, and overall appearance can vary among individual mixes.
The Corman Shepherd is generally a medium sized dog that can weigh anywhere between 20 and 70 pounds.
A typical Corman Shepherd will be somewhat short in stature, standing around 12 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.
Expect your dog to have a medium length double coat. Many Cormans have the classic German Shepherd black and tan markings. Others can inherit the paler Pembroke colors and white markings.
Corgi German Shepherd Mix Temperament
Both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and German Shepherd are herding/working dog breeds. These dogs tend to be very intelligent, alert, and trainable.
The German Shepherd is famous for being brave, confident, and devoted. The Corgi is lively and affectionate but can have more of a stubborn streak than the GSD.
How do these characteristics combine in the Corman Shepherd?
Of course, individual dogs can vary, but Corman owners generally describe their dogs as loyal, intelligent, and energetic.
Expect a dog with a pleasant temperament that is good for families with children or active adults.
Because both parent breeds are very trainable, the Corman Shepherd tends to be easy to train as well.
Training Your Corgi German Shepherd Mix
All dogs, even smart and trainable ones like the Corgi German Shepherd mix, can benefit from quality training and socialization starting in puppyhood.
Start potty and crate training your puppy early on. Socialization is also important, so taking your Corman Shepherd to puppy kindergarten classes is a great way to get her used to other dogs and people.
If your dog inherits the independent minded Corgi nature, take a confident and consistent approach using only positive reinforcement training methods.
A dog that inherits more of the eager to please German Shepherd temperament can still benefit from the same consistent, rewards-based approach.
The Corman Shepherd is an active, lively dog that thrives on regular daily exercise and play sessions.
If your dog inherits the short legs and long back of the Corgi, be aware that these physical characteristics can make him vulnerable to spine and joint injuries.
Corgi German Shepherd Mix Health
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is what’s known as a true dwarf breed. They have shortened limbs which can become bowed and cause them to suffer from painful joint problems like hip and elbow dysplasia.
Short legs combined with a long back can also lead to a potentially serious spinal condition known as Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Dogs with IVDD can lose limb function and become paralyzed.
Corgis can also suffer from an inherited disease called Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) which causes spinal cord deterioration in adult dogs.
The German Shepherd can also suffer from some inherited health conditions.
Just like the Corgi, some GSDs can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.
German Shepherds can also suffer from epilepsy, which causes seizures and gastric dilation and volvulus, also known as bloat.
What about the Corman Shepherd?
Because both parent breeds share a predisposition for hip and elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy, it’s important for potential owners of the mix to be especially aware of these conditions.
Fortunately, health tests are available for these and many other inherited diseases. We’ll talk more about health testing in the Finding a Puppy section.
Do Corgi German Shepherd Mixes Make Good Family Dogs?
The Corman Shepherd is a good pet for families with children.
As with any dog, proper supervision is recommended when your dog is interacting with unfamiliar animals and people, especially small children.
Rescuing a Corgi German Shepherd Mix
It’s possible to find a Corman Shepherd through your local animal shelters and dog rescue organizations, especially if you are interested in an adult dog.
We’ll tell you how to find a rescue dog shortly, but if you have your heart set on a puppy, here’s how to find a healthy one!
Finding a Corgi German Shepherd Mix Puppy
Be sure to choose a responsible breeder who tests their breeding stock for inherited health conditions.
Health tests can come in the form of physical examinations performed by veterinary specialists or DNA tests.
Your breeder should register test results with a canine health organization like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and share all results with you.
Avoid obtaining a puppy from an online ad or retail pet store. Many dogs sold through these venues come from commercial breeding operations known as puppy mills.
Raising a Corgi German Shepherd Mix Puppy
Caring for any puppy can be a big commitment, especially one as lively and energetic as the Corman Shepherd!
As we mentioned, the key to a well-behaved dog is to start training and socializing your puppy from an early age.
Choose a quality food for your little one. You can consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions on proper nutrition for a growing puppy.
Get your puppy used to regular brushing and bathing. Brushing is especially important for a double coated dog like the Corman Shepherd because you can expect some seasonal shedding once your puppy matures.
Don’t forget to make nail trimming, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing part of your dog’s regular grooming routine!
Corgi German Shepherd Mix Products and Accessories
What kinds of supplies will you need for your new dog?
A good brush will keep your dog’s coat in nice condition during shedding season. Additional grooming supplies include toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, nail clippers, and ear wash.
Other essential supplies include:
- Collar, leash, harness
- Food and water bowls
- Crate, playpen, or gate
- Chew and interactive toys
- Dog bed
Pros and Cons of Getting a Corgi German Shepherd Mix
A Corgi German Shepherd mix can be at risk for chronic health issues known to affect the parent breeds.
If you are concerned about your ability to care for a dog that may develop spine and joint problems, it’s best to avoid dwarf breeds and those prone to dysplasia.
However, it’s hard to find fault with the adorable looks and winning personality of the Corman Shepherd!
You can expect a dog that is smart, trainable, friendly, and always up for adventures with you.
Similar Corgi German Shepherd Mixes and Breeds
The Corgi has been mixed with many other breeds, such as the Lab. But these mixes are all prone to similar health issues.
What are some other breeds and mixes that have a lower risk for spine and joint problems?
You can consider a GSD mixed with a small to medium sized non-dwarf breed like the Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, or Poodle. Or, the new Shiloh Shepherd might suit you well!
Have your heart set on a foxy little pup like the Corgi? Check out the Shiba Inu, the Jack Russell Terrier, and the Shetland Sheepdog.
If you’ve decided you need something completely different, take a look at the Husky Poodle mix.
Corgi German Shepherd Mix Rescues
How can you find an adoptable Corgi German Shepherd mix?
Because it’s a popular mixed breed dog, it is possible to find a Corman Shepherd at a shelter. You can do a targeted search on adoption sites like Petfinder.
Breed specific rescue groups for both the German Shepherd and the Corgi can also be great options. Be sure to let them know that you are interested in a mix.
In the U.S., the national Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club maintains a list of regional affiliates that also handle rescues.
For GSDs, the American German Shepherd Rescue Association also maintains a list of affiliates in many states.
In the U.K., the Welsh Corgi Rescue Service and the German Shepherd Dog Welfare Fund are well-known breed specific rescues to contact.
Let us know of any additions to this list in the comments section!
Is a Corgi German Shepherd Mix Right for Me?
Active, loyal, and intelligent, the Corgi German Shepherd mix can be the perfect family pet for you!
Those cute looks combined with a friendly personality are a winning combination sure to please any dog lover.
Remember to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs and be sure to start training and socializing your puppy from the start.
Oh, and be prepared for your pup to attract lots of attention when you’re out and about with your best friend!
References and Resources
Canine Hip Dysplasia. American College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Examining Elbow Dysplasia. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.
Introduction to Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Southeast Veterinary Neurology.
Bell, J.S. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy and Genetic Testing in Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America, Inc.
German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian) Idiopathic Epilepsy. Universities Federation for Animal Welfare, 2011.
Gibson, T.W.G. Gastric Dilation and Volvulus in Small Animals. Merck Veterinary Manual.
Dogsnet Training Course Equipment