The Corgi Dalmatian mix is an adorable medium-sized mixed-breed dog created by breeding the Dalmatian and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Both parent breeds are popular family pets with interesting and lengthy histories, originating in Europe.
The Corgi Dalmatian is an active breed, best suited to live with an active family who can keep up with their energy levels. Benefitting extensively from regular exercise, the Dalmatian Corgi isn’t well-suited to apartment living.
Image credit: perdy_thecorgimatian
You’ll be able to learn more about the Corgi Dalmatian mix as we take you through its parent breeds’ histories, temperaments, and popularity. This will help you decide if the Corgi Dalmatian is the right breed for you and your family.
Corgi Dalmatian Mix – At a glance
| Weight: | 20–50 pounds |
| Height: | 10–15 inches |
| Lifespan: | 11–13 years |
| Coat colours: | White, black (spotted), brown, fawn. |
| Temperament: | Active, intelligent, sensitive, loyal, shy. |
| Suitable for: | Active families with or without children, single individuals, not suitable for the elderly. |
What Does a Corgi Dalmatian Mix Look Like?
The Corgi Dalmatian mix, like all designer breeds, borrows its physical appearance from both parent breeds. Meaning it will look a bit like the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a bit like the Dalmatian – all amalgamated into one adorable, medium-sized package.
The Dalmatian Corgi will likely adopt the body shape and size of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi – sleek and slender, with a long tail, but will likely have the classic white body and black spots of the Dalmatian.
Its ears will likely be forward-facing and floppy and have a slightly longer snout and fuller face than the Corgi – much more like the Dalmatian.
Image credit: whoispieba
As with any mixed-breed dog, their physical appearances can vary greatly and are difficult to pin down.
The History of the Corgi Dalmatian Mix
The Corgi Dalmatian mix is a much newer designer dog than other breeds we’ve covered. So, there’s not much history to glean from.
Most designer dog breeds like the Dalmatian Corgi were the creation of a desire to blend two breeds to get the best of both worlds – with varying degrees of success – although mixed breeds tend to have ‘hybrid vigor’ – a term meaning they’re less susceptible to health issues.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, crossbreeding became very popular in the United States. This led to the creation of different mixed breeds of dogs – from the ridiculous to the quirky and cute. Some breeders even bred small dogs with big dogs via IVF. The results were… interesting.
The Corgi Dalmatian was likely swept up in this crossbreeding craze.
The History of the Dalmatian
The Dalmatian hails from the Dalmatia region of Croatia. First noted in 1375 by Peter, the Bishop of Dovoko, when he observed hunting dogs in Dalmatia with short white hair and black spotted bodies. Bishop Peter referred to these dogs as Canis Dalmaticus.
A book by Thomas Pennant in 1790, “A History of Quadrupeds,” refers to the same dogs as “Dalmatian or Coach Dog.” This is one of the first books to refer to Dalmatians by name. Over the next thirty years, Dalmatians could be spotted guarding the coaches of European nobility in various countries.
The English referred to the Dalmatian as “The Spotted Coach Dog,” and while being purpose-bred for guardianship, their strutting form, long legs, and spotted coat were also a status symbol.
How Popular Are Dalmatians?
Dalmatians first arrived in the United States at the end of the 19th century and have since been used in various functions, including as firehouse dogs – transporting fire apparatus in the days before fire engines – and as firehouse mascots.
Today, Dalmatians are very popular companion pets, known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners and active personalities. Their popularity is growing in the United States.
In 2021, they ranked as the 49th most popular dog in the United States, according to the American Kennel Club.
Who Are Dalmatians a Good Dog For?
Dalmatians are active dogs that require plenty of exercise and do best with a house & yard to run in. They’re generally known as ‘gentle giants’ and are very good with children and other pets, making them excellent family dogs.
Their sheer size could become problematic with the elderly or in an apartment living situation, so we don’t recommend a Dalmatian for people in those situations. To live their best lives, Dalmatians need space and daily exercise.
How Did Dalmatians Come About?
The origin of the Dalmatian is unknown. We know they have been written about and illustrated several times since the 16th century as belonging to the Dalmatia region of Croatia.
First noted in 1535 by a bishop, then illustrated throughout the next century in various hunting guides, the Dalmatian began its history in eastern Europe and is still a very popular dog today in European circles.
When Did First Cross-Breed The Dalmatian?
The exact crossbreeding history of the Dalmatian is somewhat spotty (no pun intended). However, one of the first sincere attempts to crossbreed the Dalmatian likely occurred in the 20th century – with the Dalmatian/Pointer Project, though this crossbreeding project didn’t last long.
It was soon replaced in the 21st century – at the tail-end of the 1990s and into the early 2000s with an effort to crossbreed as many dogs as possible by various breeders in the United States in particular.
The Dalmatian is today popularly crossbred with dogs of all sizes to create different mixes. Some of the most popular are:
- Dalmatian Husky Mix (Dalusky)
- Shepherd Dalmatian Mix (Shepmatian)
- Dalmatian Golden Retriever Mix (Golden Dalmatian)
- Pitbull Dalmatian Mix (Pitmatian)
- Dalmatian Great Dane Mix (Great Dalmatian)
The History of the Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the oldest dog breeds in the British Isles, dating back to 1107 A.D. when they arrived from Belgium with the Flemish weavers, who had kept them as a herding breed and companion pets.
While Corgis were initially used for herding cattle for many centuries, the breed was eventually replaced by larger dogs like the Border Collie. However, that didn’t lessen Corgi’s popularity. Instead, they became faithful companion pets of the masses.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are most famous for their place alongside Queen Elizabeth II, for whom they were her favorite dog. The Queen kept more than thirty Corgis in her lifetime and was even responsible for creating a Corgi mix breed – more on that later.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a cousin – the Cardigan Welsh Corgi – these dogs were classified as a single breed in 1925 by England’s Kennel Club. In 1935, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi was classified as its own breed. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi comes from Carmarthen in Wales, though exactly when it was created is unknown.
Today, Corgis enjoy a place in many family homes and hearts. Well-liked for their friendly disposition, happy-go-lucky nature, and loyal companions for many pet owners.
How Popular Are Corgis?
The Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis first arrived in the United States in the early 20th century and were initially classified as the same breed (by the American Kennel Club) until 1935.
By this time, they were family pets, beloved as loyal dogs. They have only grown in popularity since then, favored by the active person who enjoys outdoor activity, but is equally happy with an elderly owner who can walk them slowly. Such is their nature.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was the 11th most popular dog in 2021 in the U.S., while the Cardigan Welsh lagged in 67th place.
Who Are Corgis a Good Dog For?
Corgis are known for being beautiful dogs for just about anyone! Providing you can keep up with their relatively basic physical activities, almost anyone can own a Corgi. They fit in well with the outdoorsy family units and the single, apartment-living folks in the city.
One thing to be aware of: if you have children, there is every chance your Corgi will try to ‘herd’ them, as is their nature. This should be corrected immediately as it may present a tripping hazard for your children.
How Did Corgis Come About?
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi first appeared on British shores in 1107 A.D., when Flemish weavers migrated from modern-day Belgium to Wales and brought their Corgis with them. At the time, Corgis were used as herding dogs for cattle and sheep.
The breed was popularized in the Pembrokeshire region of Wales, hence the name “Pembroke Welsh Corgi.” Likewise, its cousin, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, was popularized in the Cardigan region of Wales.
Today, Corgis are renowned for their outgoing nature and are loved by pet lovers everywhere!
When Did First Cross-Breed The Corgi?
Given their extensive history, the starting point of crossbreeding of Corgis is hard to pin down. But there have been several very popular Corgi crossbreeds throughout history. These include:
- Shiba Inu Corgi Mix (Corgi Inu)
- Corgi Rottweiler Mix (Corgi Rottie)
- Corgi Pug Mix (Porgi)
- Corgi Beagle Mix (Borgi)
- Corgi Pitbull Mix (Corgi Pit)
How Important Is a Dog’s Temperament to Your Family?
One of the most important aspects of dog ownership is finding a dog that works for you and your family. This means doing plenty of research on what type of dog you’re looking for. Are you an athletic, energetic family looking for an agile breed that will make an amazing family pet?
Are you looking for a laid-back companion pet for an elderly relative? Do you have the means to keep a dog with high activity levels? Like, a house with a backyard?
Whatever dog you choose, you’ll want to do your research to make sure that you’re getting a temperamental match for your family unit. An active dog is going to do much better living an active lifestyle. For example, a Siberian Husky will not be happy cooped up in an apartment.
Failure to research this properly and choose a dog appropriate for your family’s situation could mean you re-home the dog, which is more unnecessary trauma for everyone involved.
What is the Temperament of the Corgi Dalmatian Mix?
The Corgi Dalmatian mix is a very even-tempered dog. In contrast, the Dalmatian is the more active and excitable of the two, particularly as a puppy; the Corgi’s genes temper that excitability well.
Your Corgi Dalmatian will likely inherit different parts of its parent breeds’ temperaments as a hybrid breed. You may find it loyal and loving like the Pembroke Welsh or aloof, shy and guarded, like the Dalmatian.
Is The Corgi Dalmatian Mix Friendly?
In general, the Corgi Dalmatian mix is a pleasant, friendly dog. Although you may find that your Corgi Dalmatian is shy and reserved towards strangers at first – these are the Dalmatian genes coming through – they’ll warm up to them eventually.
Is The Corgi Dalmatian Mix Easy to Train?
Given the energetic nature of this breed, they’re somewhat prone to certain behavioral issues. Namely a lack of focus and an inability to listen to commands. This can be rectified with continuous training and positive reinforcement rather than admonishment.
How Much Can A Corgi Dalmatian Mix Weigh?
The average weight of a Corgi Dalmatian mix is between 20 and 50 pounds.
How Tall Can A Corgi Dalmatian Mix Get?
The average height of a Corgi Dalmatian mix is between 10 and 12 inches tall.
Similar Sized Breeds
There are a few similar-sized breeds to the Corgi Dalmatian. These include the English Bulldog, the Basset Hound, and the Border Collie.
Does the Corgi Dalmatian Mix Shed?
Yes! You can expect your Corgi Dalmatian to be a moderate shedder throughout the year. Your Corgi Dalmatian will likely inherit the double coat of the Pembroke Welsh. Therefore, a weekly brush will help maintain a smooth coat and keep shedding at bay.
How Much Exercise Does A Corgi Dalmatian Mix Require?
Given their Dalmatian parent genetics, there’s a very high probability that your Corgi Dalmatian will have extensive exercise requirements: at least 45 minutes to an hour of walking every day is necessary for the health of this breed.
How Long Can a Corgi Dalmatian Mix Live?
The average life expectancy of a Corgi Dalmatian is between 11 and 13 years.
What Health Conditions Could the Corgi Dalmatian Mix Have?
- Laryngeal Paralysis (Respiratory disease causing breathing problems)
- Hip Dysplasia (Hip joint inflammation)
- Deafness (Often resulting from an ear infection or congenital defect)
How Can You Find a Corgi Dalmatian Mix Puppy For Sale?
Before you go off searching for a Corgi Dalmatian mix puppy, we recommend you try adoption first. Adopting a Corgi Dalmatian mix is far less expensive and more personally rewarding. Thousands of animals languish in kennels and shelters each year, unwanted and cast aside by abusive owners or those who don’t want them.
You could save a dog’s life by adopting it. Check out your local vets or animal shelter to see if anyone has dropped off a Corgi Dalmatian mix. Alternatively, you can try it online at AdoptAPet.com.
How Much Does a Corgi Dalmatian Mix Puppy Cost?
The average cost of a Corgi Dalmatian mix puppy is between $300 and $700. Despite being relatively inexpensive, this doesn’t necessarily include other hidden adoption fees.
If you’re considering purchasing a Corgi Dalmatian, we recommend you read our article on finding a reputable breeder first. This will help you avoid puppy mills and pick the right breeder for your newest family member.
Is the Corgi Dalmatian Mix the Right Breed For You?
The Corgi Dalmatian mix is one of the cutest medium-sized dogs you’re likely to come across. Suppose you think you’d make great pet parents after reading through this. In that case, we encourage you to inquire about a Corgi Dalmatian mix at your local vet or animal shelter or search online for a reputable breeder of Corgi Dalmatians!
Alternatively, if you know that the Corgi Dalmatian definitely isn’t the pup for you, then we have a host of other breed guides to browse to find your ideal companion!
Sources:
- https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-dogs/paralysis-of-the-larynx-in-dogs
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/musculoskeletal/c_dg_hip_dysplasia
- https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-dogs/paralysis-of-the-larynx-in-dogs
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/most-popular-dog-breeds-of-2021/
- https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?id=5101841&pid=11340