There are many mixed dog breeds and here is an uncommon one.
Corgi Shiba Inu mix is a fox-looking small to a medium-sized dog bred by crossing Shiba Inu and the Cardigan or Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
These lovable dogs are quite active, alert, and easily trainable. This makes them a great dog for individuals or families having older children.
They might have been there naturally but breeders in USA started raising them from early 2000s in the search of a fox looking domesticated dog.
Appearance
Due to the traits of the Corgi, this dog is small to medium-sized.
Being a mixed dog breed, their appearance would depend on which parent genes are more dominant, but you can still identify certain aspects that are distinctly from one parent.
They have a fox-like appearance with a pointy muzzle and pointy upright ears. Corgi Inu typically have a black nose and brown eyes.
One dominant gene from both parents that is displayed is the double coat. Their attractive double coat comes in varied colors like Black, brown, red, sable, brindle, fawn, or pied.
They tend to have shorter limbs. a trait they inherit from Corgi.
Size of Corgi Inu
Corgi and Shiba Inu are very different dogs in terms of their size and body build. While Corgi is short and long, Shiba Inu is medium in height and having a moderate length.
The Corgi Shiba is best considered a medium-sized dog breed that stands at 9 to 15 inches at the shoulder. When it comes to weight, this dog will weigh between 17 to 27 pounds.
Personality
The temperament of the Corgi Inu can vary greatly. This is because both his parents Corgi and Shiba Inu are quite different in their temperament.
While Corgi is social and playful, Shiba Inu is reserved and shy to strangers.
Despite the moderate size, the Corgi Inu are highly active dogs who show a high level of intelligence. They make good guard dogs owing to the traits of the Shiba Inu and can sound the alarm when an intruder enters your home.
The Corgi Inu can fit into a home with other animals if you socialize and train him during his early years. Your dog will be safe around young children if they are trained and taught how to handle an energetic medium-sized dog.
This dog has a high prey drive and can chase smaller animals. Luckily, training and socializing him early on can prevent this.
Corgi Shiba Inu mix tends to make a stronger bond with few family members.
Lifespan
The Corgi Inu has a life expectancy ranging from 12 to 15 years.
How well a dog is cared for and his genes will determine how long he lives. Therefore, you should be paying close attention while adopting a dog.
Corgi Inu Coat and colors
Indeed, the Corgi Shiba Inu has an attractive coat that is thick and dense since both parents have attractive coat characteristics. They inherit the double coat that features on both the parents and can show a variety of colors.
Colors in which the Corgi Inu can be found are black, blue, sable, fawn, red, and white. They can also be seen in brindle and pied coats.
Due to the double coat, Corgi Inu will adapt well to cold climates. He will not fare so well in hot climates and will therefore require indoor housing during hot weather conditions.
Of course, thick double coats come with additional responsibilities. Shedding will be a constant reality during Corgi Inu’s life. An owner can tackle this obstacle by understanding when they shed and how to maintain this type of coat.
Want to know about Fluffy Corgi – Read here
Is the Corgi Shiba Inu Mix Hypoallergenic?
People will be wondering if this dog will be suitable for people with mild or severe dog allergies.
No, Corgi Inu is not hypoallergenic dog and shed a lot like any other double coat dog.
This constant shedding of hair increases the chances of dander being spread in the air and onto household objects.
If you are looking for a hypoallergenic dog, we suggest getting a Poodle or poodle mix as they are very close to being hypoallergenic.
Here is a real Corgi Inu mix in action.
Grooming
The double coat is appealing to look at but comes with responsibilities.
Their shedding is more on the moderate to heavy side due to the double coat and the Shiba Inu traits. Daily brushing is advised if you want to keep that thick coat tamed and free of loose hairs. And be equipped with the right tools to get the job done.
Making your Corgi Inu look good will require a strict grooming routine. Once you have made a routine, your dog will get accustomed.
We would recommend best natural oatmeal based shampoo for bathing to assure the coat does not lose that natural shine.
Health
Constant check-ups at the vet will ensure your Corgi Inu is healthy and will help to diagnose any illnesses before they become fatal. This mixed breed will have increased chances of inheriting a disease from either the Corgi or the Shiba Inu.
Diseases that the Corgi Inu can be at risk of getting include:
⦁ Cataracts
Blurred vision or blindness can be caused by cataracts. Cataracts can also form in older dogs who suffer from diabetes. Cataracts can be described as a white layer formed over the eye of a dog.
It does not affect the life expectancy of your dog and can be solved if caught early with regular vet visits.
⦁ Degenerative myelopathy
This is a spinal cord disease that slowly leads to weakness in the hind limbs. Paralysis is also a possibility in such a condition. A common sign of this disease is when your dog starts to walk on his knuckles (under turned paws).
⦁ Elbow/ hip dysplasia
This condition affects the joints of dogs. The ball and socket no longer fit together perfectly. It will, in turn, affect the mobility of your dog.
⦁ Obesity
Most dogs are left vulnerable to explosive weight gain if the owner overfeeds the dog or if he is not getting the recommended amount of exercise. Low-quality dog foods also play a role in making your dog obese.
⦁ Hypothyroidism
It is another disease that can slow down metabolic activity that results in obesity. The best way to avoid this is to give your canine the best food and ample amounts of exercise.
Care
Having a Corgi Inu requires more than just cuddles and food. It is just like having a child! Care and hygiene are mandatory if you want them to live a healthy disease-free life.
⦁ Teeth
Never cleaning your Corgi Inu’s teeth can have dire effects. Foul breathe and tooth removals will be a common occurrence if you neglect dental care. Loose teeth can become painful and will lead to a decreased appetite.
Brushing the teeth of your Corgi Shiba Inu mix daily will be enough to guard against several periodontal diseases. Smaller dog breeds are the most vulnerable to these conditions.
⦁ Ears
The ears of this dog could easily become clogged with debris or infested with pests like ticks. A fast check frequently will greatly reduce the chances of this happening.
Dogs will not be willing to have their ears touched. You will have to get them used to this treatment from a young age using slow and sensitive methods.
⦁ Nails
You will notice the nails of the Corgi Shiba Inu mix growing as fast as yours! You can clip the nails at least twice a month (more if required). This is to avoid the clicking sound they make while walking, as it could hinder their walking style.
Nails can also be cut by a professional dog groomer if you are struggling to cut them yourself.
Corgi Inu Diet
A planned diet consisting of a good food brand is important. It affects the health and the coat of your Corgi Shiba Inu mix breed.
We would recommend 1.5 to 2 cups of dog dry food split into two meals.
If you are not sure of the amounts and time intervals to feed your dog, consult a vet or a pet specialist.
Exercise
Like most dogs, exercise is an essential part of Corgi Inu’s day. A session of 30 to 60 minutes a day should suffice.
You should try a mixture of exercises so that he does not get bored. So a mix of physical games, mind-stimulating games, and regular walks will make sure that your dog does not lose his zest for activity.
With no or less exercise, corgi Inu can become overweight.
Lineage
Let us briefly look at the parents of this mixed dog breed.
Corgi
The Corgi is available in two types – Pembroke Corgi, and Welsh Corgi. Both of these originated in Europe. This breed is widely renowned as Queen Elizabeth’s favorite dog. They are known for their short and long bodies that are covered with a fluffy coat of fur.
Corgis do not have the highest level of energy but are more popular for being cuddly dogs that pick a favorite person among the household. They are cute, happy, social, and fun-loving. This makes them perfect for families and outgoing individuals.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is traditionally a Japanese dog breed. They have a soft but thick double coat that protects them from the snow and cold. Their size ranges from small to medium.
Being alert, agile, and loyal makes them the best companion in colder climates. These dogs are often called fearless and keen by their owners.
Conclusion
The Corgi Inu is a great pet dog who is lively, energetic, and capable of alerting owners of intrusion. You will not regret welcoming this furry friend into your home!