Description. The Shorgi is a hybrid dog. It is bred by mixing a corgi and a Shih Tzu. Because of this mixture the dogs can have a variety of different appearances. To be a true hybrid their parents should be purebreds within their own breed. It is not a requirement for the father to be a specific breed, as long as they are either a corgi or a Shih Tzu. This is of course true also of the mother. Dependent on which sex the corgi parent is, the puppies’ appearance will differ. They will always be a small dog, as both the parents are small in stature. The main differences will be if they take on the short corgi hair, or the longer Shih Tzu hair.

History. Being a hybrid the Shorgi should be a 50% 50% Mix. Both parents as mentioned before should be purebreds. However sometimes the mixture is watered down, by having a Shorgi breed with either a corgi or a Shih Tzu. Obviously as a breed the Shorgi has a very short history, although their parent breeds are longer. In time to come the Shorgi may become registered as a breed, as all purebreds are essentially a mix of other breeds, originally. It only takes a standard to be laid down from the Shorgi, and other hybrids, to stand a chance of changing their classification to pedigree.

Temperament. The Shorgi can take on any of the characteristics of either its parents. However if both parents have a tendency towards something the puppy will probably display the same characteristic. They can tend to be chewers, and noted to eat a wide variety of objects, not always food. Their parentage is such that they will undoubtedly be a brave and playful dog. It is very important to train and socialise these dogs well. You must establish yourself as the leader to prevent small dog syndrome, which is a problem caused by the owners not treating the dog properly, and pampering too much. As both parents are intelligent and eager to please, it is very likely this breed will be also. They should be fairly easy to train as they will be an eager to please dog. If this dog does take on characteristics from both parental breeds, you should have a trainable, happy, loving pet with great loyalty. You need to check with the breeder or research both parent bloodlines to get a better idea of the actual traits your pet will have.

Health issues. Whilst the crossing of the two breeds may reduce problems there are some common ailments affecting both breeds. You should be aware that there is a probability of back disorders, and eye problems, more specifically PRA and glaucoma. Weight gain can be a problem for this breed, as it will make the back issues more likely. Overfeeding of the Shorgi is a bad idea and portion control must be handled sensibly. Too many treats will obviously be bad also.

Grooming. This is hard, to be specific, as the parentage of the Shorgi is one long haired breed and one short haired. Generally speaking though, they will require brushing, from daily to weekly, dependant on hair length. Trimming, or clipping, is always best done by a professional (unless you are experienced enough yourself). Washing should be done only when required, with the use of mild or even dry shampoo.

Living conditions. Again we look at the parents, and estimate the requirements. The Shorgi will probably be moderately active indoors and whilst preferring at least a small yard, should manage ok without. They should adapt to living in an apartment with no problems.