Corgi Schip
Hybrid Breed Description
The Corgi Schip is a cross between the Welsh Corgi and the Schipperke. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Corgi Schip. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small but sturdy herding breed characterized by its distinctive low-set profile and powerful build. Standing between ten to twelve inches at the shoulder, these compact canines typically weigh between twenty-two to thirty pounds when fully grown, though females tend to be slightly smaller. Despite their diminutive stature, Corgis possess substantial muscle throughout their bodies with a deep chest and strong, thick limbs that belie their small size. Their body is slightly longer than tall, creating an elongated rectangular silhouette, though they maintain a straight back without being extreme in any area. The breed's most distinctive feature is its double coat, which is weatherproof and relatively short but remarkably dense. Colors range from rich red and fawn to sable and black, often accompanied by white markings. Tri-colored varieties showcase black with white and tan accents, while heads can vary from red to black coloring. The coat sheds heavily throughout the year with seasonal peaks in spring and autumn. Occasionally, fluffy Corgis appear with longer, softer coats, though these are considered undesirable for show purposes. Corgis have erect, triangular ears that are firm and medium-sized, positioned in proportion to their fox-like head shape. Their eyes are dark and expressive, conveying intelligence and alertness. The breed's chondrodysplastic nature, meaning they have slightly bowed limbs and shortened leg bones, contributes to their unique appearance. Many Pembroke Welsh Corgis have naturally bobbed tails or traditionally docked tails, distinguishing them from their Cardigan cousins who retain full tails. This compact herding dog maintains an athletic build designed for agility and endurance despite appearing low to the ground.
Key Characteristics
Corgis are exceptionally intelligent and energetic dogs with strong herding instincts deeply embedded in their genetic makeup. These alert canines possess sharp minds that make them quick learners, though this intelligence can sometimes manifest as a mischievous or manipulative streak if not properly channeled. Originally bred to herd cattle by nipping at their heels, Corgis maintain this instinct and may attempt to herd family members, children, or other pets. They are highly people-oriented dogs that thrive on working with their owners and genuinely enjoy training activities, though they require a firm yet kind hand to prevent them from taking charge themselves. Despite their small stature, Corgis carry themselves with remarkable confidence and self-assurance, often acting as though they're much larger dogs. They excel as watchdogs with keen hearing and a propensity for barking at unfamiliar sounds or people, though this alertness can sometimes lead to excessive alarm barking if not properly managed. These social dogs form strong bonds with their families and dislike being left alone for extended periods, potentially developing separation anxiety or engaging in destructive behaviors like digging and chewing when isolated or under-stimulated. Corgis display a playful, outgoing personality with an apparent sense of humor that endears them to their families. While generally friendly and loyal, they can be stubborn and independent-minded, preferring to make their own rules rather than follow commands. Early socialization and consistent training are essential to manage their dominant tendencies and herding behaviors, particularly around small children whom they may nip to redirect. With proper exercise, mental stimulation, and firm leadership, Corgis become devoted, affectionate companions that bring joy and entertainment to active households willing to meet their needs.
Corgis are generally hardy dogs with a lifespan of twelve to fifteen years, though their unique body structure predisposes them to certain health concerns. Their chondrodysplastic build, characterized by short legs and an elongated back, makes them particularly vulnerable to intervertebral disc disease and other back problems. Spinal issues can range from mild discomfort to serious conditions requiring surgical intervention, emphasizing the importance of preventing activities that strain their backs, such as jumping from heights or navigating steep stairs repeatedly. Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia are inherited orthopedic conditions that affect Corgis, occurring when the ball and socket joints don't align properly. This misalignment causes progressive arthritis, pain, and mobility issues. Responsible breeders screen for these conditions through radiographic evaluation. Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive neurological disease similar to ALS in humans, affects the spinal cord and eventually leads to paralysis of the hind legs. While genetic testing can identify carriers, there is currently no cure for this condition. Progressive retinal atrophy represents another hereditary concern, causing gradual vision deterioration that can lead to complete blindness. Other eye issues include cataracts and glaucoma. Corgis also face an increased risk of obesity due to their robust appetites and tendency toward food motivation. Excess weight exacerbates joint problems and back issues, making weight management crucial for their overall health. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate exercise regimens, proper nutrition, and careful monitoring of their body condition can help Corgis live healthy, active lives while minimizing the impact of breed-specific health challenges.
Schipperke
The Schipperke is a small, sturdy Spitz-type dog with a distinctive fox-like appearance and compact build. Males typically stand eleven to thirteen inches tall at the shoulder and weigh twelve to sixteen pounds, while females measure slightly smaller at ten to twelve inches tall and weigh approximately ten to fifteen pounds. Despite their diminutive size, Schipperkes possess a dense, muscular body with surprising strength and agility. Their silhouette is characterized by a unique outline that slopes downward from the highest point at the withers to the base of the tail, creating their distinctive profile. The breed's most notable feature is its thick double coat consisting of a soft, fluffy undercoat covered by a harsher-feeling, longer outer coat. Traditionally, Schipperkes are jet black, though chocolate, cream, and rarely liver-red colorations can occur. The coat forms a dramatic ruff around the neck that trails down toward the rear, resembling a cape or mane. Longer fur on the hind legs, called culottes, adds to their distinctive appearance. The coat is naturally water-resistant and provides excellent protection against the elements. Schipperkes have pointed, erect ears set high atop their wedge-shaped, fox-like heads. Their small, dark eyes convey an alert, intelligent expression that reflects their vigilant nature. The face is refined with a moderately long muzzle and small, round feet that contribute to their agility. Tails vary naturally in the breed, ranging from naturally bobbed to long and plumed, with some breeders choosing to dock tails to very short lengths. The overall impression is of a small, confident dog with a thick coat, alert expression, and balanced proportions that belie its working heritage as a watchdog and ratter on Belgian canal boats.
Key Characteristics
Schipperkes are active, alert, and intelligent dogs with confident, independent personalities shaped by their heritage as watchdogs and vermin hunters. These spirited canines possess remarkable curiosity and attentiveness, constantly observing their surroundings and quick to announce anything unusual with their characteristic loud bark. While outgoing and affectionate with their families, Schipperkes can be reserved or suspicious with strangers, making early socialization crucial to prevent excessive wariness. Their protective instincts combined with vocal tendencies make them excellent watchdogs, though this same trait requires management to prevent nuisance barking in noise-restricted environments. Despite their small size, Schipperkes display fearless, self-assured attitudes and strong-willed personalities. They are highly energetic dogs requiring substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors such as excessive barking, digging, or destructive chewing. Their intelligence makes them capable learners, but their independent nature means training requires patience, consistency, and firm but gentle handling. Schipperkes can be stubborn, sometimes choosing to follow their instincts rather than commands, particularly when off-leash where their strong prey drive may lead them to chase small animals. Schipperkes thrive in active families that can provide them with regular physical activity, training, and engagement. They generally bond closely with their people, including children, though supervision is important due to their tendency toward assertive behavior and occasional nipping related to their herding background. While they can adapt to apartment living if exercised adequately, their vocal nature and need for activity make them better suited to homes where they can channel their energy productively. When properly exercised, trained, and socialized, Schipperkes become devoted, entertaining companions that bring spirited energy and unwavering loyalty to households prepared for their lively, independent personalities.
Schipperkes are generally healthy, robust dogs with lifespans typically ranging from twelve to sixteen years, though they face several breed-specific health concerns requiring vigilance. Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIB, a rare but devastating genetic metabolic disorder, affects up to fifteen percent of the breed population. This progressive neurological condition causes symptoms including balance problems, tremors, and coordination difficulties that typically emerge between two to four years of age. The disease is invariably fatal with no effective treatment available, though genetic testing allows breeders to identify carriers and make informed breeding decisions to reduce its incidence. Orthopedic conditions including luxating patella and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease commonly affect the breed. Luxating patella occurs when the kneecap slips out of position, causing discomfort, limping, and potentially leading to arthritis if left untreated. Legg-Calve-Perthes disease involves degeneration of the hip joint due to disrupted blood supply, resulting in pain and lameness that often requires surgical correction. Hip dysplasia, though less common than in larger breeds, can still occur and cause progressive arthritis. These conditions may be exacerbated by obesity, making weight management particularly important. Schipperkes are predisposed to several eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, an inherited disease causing gradual vision loss leading to blindness, cataracts, and distichiasis where extra eyelashes irritate the eye. Hypothyroidism affects the breed more frequently than average, causing weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and coat changes that require lifelong medication management. Epilepsy occurs in Schipperkes with no genetic test currently available, though affected dogs often respond well to anticonvulsant medications. Regular veterinary examinations, genetic health testing of breeding stock, appropriate exercise, proper nutrition, and dental care help ensure Schipperkes live long, healthy lives despite their genetic predispositions.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Corgi Schip may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Welsh Corgi and Schipperke to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.