Auggie

The Auggie Dog, also known as Aussie-Corgi, originated in the United States in the 19th century. They were created by crossing the Australian Shepherd and the Pembroke Welsh Corgis as herding dogs.

The resulting pups were then bred with other small breeds like Pomeranians and Miniature Schnauzers to create even more variation in size and coat type. 

Auggie Dogs were originally used as working dogs on farms, but their popularity as designer breeds grew in the mid-1900s. Today, they are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. 

They are known for their loyalty, playfulness, and intelligence. Auggie Dogs make great family pets and are relatively easy to train.

1. Australian Shepherd-Source: AKC
2. Pembroke Welsh Corgis- Source: Pixabay

Auggie dogs are a bundle of joy, thanks to their unique mix of traits from the Australian Shepherd and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. 

They're super smart and always ready to learn new tricks. With their high energy levels and love for fun, Auggies are the life of the party! Whether they're chasing toys in the yard or exploring new places, they're full of curiosity and excitement.

• Auggie Dog Temperament

Auggies are most famous for their friendly nature. They get along great with other pets and kids, making them the perfect furry friends for families. 

They're patient and kind, always up for a game or cuddle session. Plus, their herding instincts mean they're great at keeping everyone together and safe.

In short, Auggie dogs are smart, energetic, and adorable companions. They're the paw-perfect addition to any home, bringing endless joy and companionship to everyone around them.

• Potential Challenges 

Prospective Auggie owners should be aware of inherent herding instincts stemming from both Australian Shepherd and Pembroke Welsh Corgi lineage. These instincts may result in behaviors such as nipping or herding, particularly towards children or other household pets.

Owners should be prepared to provide ample mental and physical stimulation for their Auggie to prevent boredom and behavioral issues. Engaging in regular exercise, interactive play, and training sessions can help channel their energy in positive ways and prevent destructive behaviors.

Auggie dogs typically get the short legs and long body of the Corgi, paired with the striking coloring of the Australian Shepherd.

Other than its short stature, Auggie's ears are also one of his most distinguishing features. They're large and expressive and always perked up and alert. His ears may droop when he's relaxed or sleeping, but they'll always spring back into place when he hears something interesting.

• Auggie Dog Size 

Auggies are medium-sized dogs, standing 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. The average Auggie dog weight is between 20 and 40 pounds. Male Auggies are typically larger than females.

• Coat Colors 

Auggie is usually tri-colored, showing combinations of brown, black, tan, blue merle, and white. Some Augie's have spots or patchwork markings on their coats. Their coat will be shiny and lustrous regardless of your pup’s color.

Auggie's coat is double-layered to protect him from the elements and keep him comfortable in all weather conditions. 

The top layer comprises guard hairs, which are longer and coarser than the undercoat. The undercoat comprises soft, downy hairs that insulate and protect Auggie from the cold. 

1. Tri-color Auggies - Source: picklestheauggie
2. Tri-color Auggie dog full grown- Source: picklestheauggie
3. Mini Auggie Dog- source: Pinterest
4. Blue Merle Auggie Dog- source: littleauggieandannie
5. Toy Auggie Dog- Source: candicelynn373

Male and female Auggies have a few differences:

• Size 

One of the most noticeable differences between male and female Auggie Dogs is their size. On average, males will be about 20% larger than females. 

This difference in size can be attributed to different hormones and muscle composition. 

• Temperament 

Generally speaking, female Auggie Dogs tend to have sweeter dispositions than their male counterparts. 

They'll usually be more affectionate and easygoing, making them the perfect lap dogs. Male Auggie Dogs, on the other hand, tend to be more energetic and playful. So, if you're looking for an active dog to take on hikes or runs with you, make sure to adopt a male. 

• Shedding Seasonality 

One difference that you may not have considered is shedding. All dogs shed, but did you know that males and females shed differently? 

Male Auggie Dogs will shed their coat twice a year in what's known as "shedding season." Females only shed once a year during this time.

Providing your Auggie dog with a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for ensuring their well-being. As a medium-sized breed with high energy levels, Auggies require a diet that caters to their specific needs.

Opt for high-quality dog food that is specially formulated for small to medium-sized breeds. Look for options that contain a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support their active lifestyle.

Consider factors such as your Auggie's age, weight, and activity level when determining their daily food intake. Puppies, for example, may require more frequent meals to support their growth and development. Whereas, adult Auggies may benefit from a feeding schedule that aligns with their activity levels.

It's essential to monitor your Auggie's weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity, which can lead to various health issues. Avoid overfeeding and limit treats to prevent excessive calorie intake.

While generally healthy, Auggies may be prone to certain inherited health problems such as:

• Obesity: Auggie dogs are at risk of obesity if their diet and exercise regimen are not properly managed. Obesity can lead to various health issues, including joint problems, heart disease, and decreased lifespan. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for their overall health.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This condition affects the spinal discs, leading to pain, mobility issues, and in severe cases, paralysis. Auggies, particularly those with long backs inherited from the Corgi parent, may be more susceptible to IVDD. Preventive measures such as avoiding excessive jumping or rough play and providing proper spinal support are essential for minimizing the risk of IVDD.
• Deafness: Auggies, like many other breeds with merle coloring, may be prone to congenital deafness. This condition can occur unilaterally (in one ear) or bilaterally (in both ears) and may be present from birth. Early detection through hearing tests and proactive management can help ensure that deaf Auggies lead fulfilling lives by providing appropriate accommodations and support.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a degenerative eye disease that affects the retina, leading to gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. Auggies, particularly those with merle coloring, may be at higher risk for PRA. Regular veterinary check-ups and proactive monitoring of their vision can help detect signs of PRA early and manage the condition effectively.
• Joint Problems (Hip and Elbow Dysplasia): Auggies, like their parent breeds, may be predisposed to elbow and hip dysplasia, which are developmental abnormalities affecting the joints. These conditions can cause pain, lameness, and mobility issues, particularly as Auggies age. Proper weight management and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of joint problems and maintain their mobility and quality of life.

By staying vigilant and proactive about your Auggie's health, including regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care, you can help ensure their long-term well-being and happiness.

Auggie Dogs have medium, easy-to-maintain coats that only need to be brushed once or twice a week. 

However, they may need to be brushed daily during shedding seasons to prevent tangles and mats. Use a slicker brush or a medium-toothed comb to remove loose hair and prevent tangles. Pay extra attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears and around the legs.

You should check their ears regularly for any dirt or debris, as their ear canals are prone to infection. In addition, their nails should be trimmed every few weeks to prevent overgrowth. Overall, grooming an Auggie Dog is a relatively simple process.

• Exercise Needs

Auggies are an active breed that needs plenty of daily exercise. A daily walk or run will suffice. If you have the time and opportunity, taking them to a dog park or letting them run around in a fenced-in backyard are also great exercise options. 

Various activities can help meet their exercise needs, such as walks, runs, hikes, playing fetch, or swimming. 

While it may be hard to find breed-specific rescues for this hybrid breed, multiple rescue groups deal in Australian Shepherd and Corgi mixes:

AussieRescueSocal.com

Corgi.RescueMe.org

The average Auggie dog price is around $1000. When buying an Auggie puppy, make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable Auggie dog breeder.

Pawrade.com

NextDayPets.com

• Originally Auggies were bred for herding, their long body and short stature were perfect for quickly moving around and controlling livestock on farms. 
• They still have their herding and working instincts, making them agile competitors. Here’s an Auggie dog showing tricks at the 2018 Westminster American Kennel Club dog show:

Auggies excel as family pets, agility competitors, and loyal companions for active individuals or families.