The Dorgi is a gorgeous crossbreed, offering the best traits of both the Corgi and the Dachshund. Loyal, affectionate and friendly, these are little dogs with huge personalities!
Wondering how they came to exist? Let's take a look at the history behind the breed.
How did Queen Elizabeth II influence the creation of the Dorgi?
A breed loved by Her Majesty, the Welsh Corgi's roots go back many centuries. In 920 AD, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is thought to have been introduced into Wales by Flemish Herders. In 1928, both the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgi breeds were recognised as one, but six years on they were recognised as their own unique and individual breeds.
Having owned Corgis ever since she was gifted Susan on her 18th birthday, Queen Elizabeth II is said to have accidentally created the Dorgi. The crossbreed was created when her own Corgi mated with Pipkin, a Dachshund belonging to Princess Margaret. The resulting puppies became the first of their kind, resulting in the adorable Corgi mix we know today.
Queen Elizabeth II and her Dorgi Candy
Having owned over 30 Corgis, Queen Elizabeth II was known to have a particularly soft spot for Dachshund and Corgi cross Candy. The oldest and longest-surviving of The Queen's many dogs, little Dorgi Candy was sweet natured and inquisitive, famously interrupting a memorabilia viewing in search of a treat.
What are the main differences between a Dorgi and a Corgi?
While Dorgis and Corgis have the same long bodies and lovely brown coats, the Dorgi combines a lot of the best traits of both parent breeds. What these dogs lack in size, they certainly make up for in personality. They are affectionate, intelligent companions.
Differences in personality
The Dorgi tends to have more of a stubborn streak than the Corgi, which perhaps comes from the Dachshund in there. Described by the Kennel Club as lively and courageous, the Dachshund is a big dog in a little body. If the Dorgi has even a part of the determination of the Dachshund, you can be sure this is a dog that knows their own mind.
Differences in appearance
The Dorgi has a shorter, coarser coat than the Corgi, and floppy, triangular ears. It is also slightly shorter and lighter than the Corgi, making them a great size for any home.
All about the Dorgi
As with any cross breed, you should expect the unexpected, but here are some traits you are certain to find in your Dorgi:
Personality
Dorgis are cute, cuddly and they love company. These little bundles of fun are strong personalities, who love to play and spend time around people and other dogs. The Dorgi can be reserved and shy if not socialised from a young age, so it's important to get your puppy out meeting people early on. They might not be the best choice of dog for small children, as their herding side might make them nippy. They can also be stubborn and independent, so they're better for single people or couples.
Size
As with any mixed breed, the Dorgi may vary in size depending on their parents. With a Dachshund dad and a Corgi mum, you can be sure your pup won't grow to be a large sized dog, but there can be variations in height and weight across litters.
Health
As a mixed breed dog, the Dorgi is generally speaking energetic and fairly healthy. Having said this, there are certain health issues owners should be aware of.
Hip Dysplasia is a fairly common condition with the Corgi breed, affecting hip joint development and potentially leading to the loss of hip function. Symptoms to look out for include decreased range of motion, lameness and a change in gait. Corgis should be health screened and tested for hip dysplasia before breeding, to avoid such a condition being passed on.
Intervertebral Disc Disease, or IVDD, is a condition of the spine that causes back pain, partial loss of function of the limbs and in severe cases, even paralysis. It is a particular problem with the Dachshund breed, who are up to ten times more likely to suffer this disease than other dogs.
The Dorgi's average lifespan is 12 to 15 years.
Training
Dorgis are suprisingly active and energetic dogs for their size, and they love the outdoors. This active crossbreed combines the versatility and athleticism of the Dachshund, with the herding nature of the Corgi, resulting in an intelligent dog who needs to run and spend time in nature.
Dorgis can have a stubborn streak and know what they want, so training from a young age with lots of positive reinforcement is essential. Dorgis can be easy to train, as long as they are sufficiently exercised, both mentally and physically.
Care
When it comes to grooming, the Dorgi is fairly low maintenance as even the long-haired individuals only require a bi-weekly brush.
In summary, the Dorgi is very easy to love. If you're looking for a fun-loving, friendly and happy dog, this Dachshund, Corgi cross is a great choice. Be sure to socialise and train from a young age in order for your puppy to grow into a balanced adult.
If you'd like to share your life with a dog fit for royalty, the Dorgi may just be the dog for you!
