Golden Retriever Corgi Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament

Golden retrievers and corgis are two of the world’s most well-loved dog breeds, so it’s little wonder that the mix of these two breeds – aka the Golden Corgi – has become such a coveted dog. You are sure to get cute results from this mix breed, but because of the vast difference in appearance and size of the parent breeds, the outcome of the golden corgi can be hard to predict, which is why it’s wise to consult a trusted breeder for further info on your potential new pup.

So what does it take to care for a golden corgi? In many ways, these dogs make for a fairly easy-going pet, since they not only inherit the traits of high intelligence from both parent breeds, but they also retain their affectionate and loyal nature. You can expect them to be high-spirited and require lots of exercise mixed with plenty of play and cuddle times too. They also get on quite well with others, which is great news for family homes and multiple pet households.

If you’ve been pondering whether to adopt a golden corgi puppy of your own but weren’t sure you had enough info yet, check through our handy guide below. From their health issues and how to manage them to their feeding routine and grooming schedule, we’ve shared all the key advice and stats you need to know to make an informed decision when you do take your adorable golden corgi puppy home with you!

Physical Characteristics

Golden corgis tend to resemble a scaled down golden retriever with the low-set body and short legs of a corgi – though when the parent breeds are as different from one another as this mix breed, the results are not always the same.

Some golden corgis’ can have a fluffier or straighter coat texture, slightly different ear shapes and may sport the corgi’s tri-color coat style of cream, gold and white instead of the signature ‘Goldie’ retriever look.

As for height, golden corgis can grow anywhere between 10 to 18 inches at shoulder height, and will mostly favor the shorter corgi build. Because it is hard to predict the exact proportions of this kind of mixed breed, golden corgis can weigh between 40 to 50 pounds on average, but they can be as much as 75 pounds in some cases!

Lifespan

Based on the average lifespan of its parent breeds, golden corgis should have a life expectancy of around 10 to 14 years.

Grooming Needs

Inheriting their parent’s luxurious double coats means the golden corgi can shed quite a lot throughout the year, so a thorough weekly brush can help minimize the fur and fluff they leave behind (and during their twice-yearly shedding seasons, they will benefit from daily brushes just to keep it under control!).

Because their double coats are quite good at repelling dirt and moisture, your golden corgi will only need the occasional bath to avoid drying out their skin with a high-quality vet recommended dog shampoo to keep their coat in top condition.

As for other grooming measures, you should trim their nails around once a month to avoid cracking or splits and be sure to check their ears regularly as debris or a build up of wax can risk infection. In the summer, it’s also important to apply sunscreen to their nose, ears and other sensitive areas to prevent heatstroke, as this is the time of year when your golden corgi’s skin is more likely to be exposed after shedding.

Temperament

While both parent breeds have a fun-loving, affectionate nature, corgis have a slightly bossy, loud streak and love to bark, so it is hard to tell which traits your golden corgi may inherit more – quiet and friendly or loud and extroverted.

However this mixed breed ends up though, you’re guaranteed to have a smart pup who loves to be around people – because of the slight protective nature of corgis though, they are much better around children and other family members if they get plenty of practice to socialize.

Exercise Needs

Golden corgis are the mix of a dog that loves to run, play and swim and a small energetic dog with an in-built herding instinct, so this is a dog that will relish plenty of exercise – perhaps more than most mix breeds!

We’d recommend indulging your golden corgi in at least 60 minutes of exercise every day with added playtime both indoors and out throughout the week.

Since their retriever parent has a natural love of the water, taking your golden corgi for a run on the beach or a swim in your backyard pool are both fun ways of keeping them fit. Classics like taking them to the park to fetch and runs are great ways to burn off energy too.

Boredom and barking are hallmarks of the corgi gene if they get insufficient exercise, so be prepared to make time for them!

Health Risks

Every mix breed shares a list of potential health issues, and the golden corgi may experience the following in its lifetime:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Seizures
• Eye Issues (e.g. Glaucoma)
• Hypothyroidism
• Mast cell tumors

Golden retrievers are sadly predisposed to certain cancers, but because of the shared corgi traits, this will not necessarily spell a cancer diagnosis for your golden corgi pup. It’s wise to ask a breeder beforehand about the individual dog’s family history for cancer and certain diseases and make a decision from there.

It’s also vital to take them for their regular vet check ups and maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to prevent health issues from arising.

The most common health risks to watch out for with your golden corgi are related to their back, since their long and low bodies can easily become injured and lead to complications such as hip and elbow dysplasia, especially if you allow them to jump off the couch, bed or stairs. If they do this, consult an emergency vet immediately.

Feeding

Since they often have the low squat bodies of corgis, you should be careful with the food portions around your golden corgi, as they are predisposed to weight gain.

To make sure you feed them just the right amount, give them two cups of high-quality dry dog food a day and try to limit the snacks and treats you feed them in between.

To keep to a good balance, always consult your vet about their dietary needs as they grow through puppy-hood into full-grown adults to avoid giving them too much or too little food.

Adding a fish oil supplement to their food is also highly recommended for golden corgis as the omega-3 fatty acids help to relieve the joint pain associated with their low, long backs as well as supporting their overall health and giving them a shiny coat!

Are Golden Retriever Corgi Mixes Protective?

Because corgis have a naturally protective nature, yes, there is a chance your golden corgi could also inherit this trait, but it is hard to predict which genes will dominate one way or another.

While retrievers are very friendly and generally accepting of strangers, corgis tend to be protective over their owners and mistrusting of strangers if they lack the early socialization. The corgi parent breed also has a strong herding instinct, so they naturally like to boss people around and keep them in line!

How Much Does a Golden Retriever Corgi Mix Cost?

Golden corgis can cost anywhere between $600 and $1,000, but trusted breeders will not normally sell them at such a high figure. Unrepeatable breeders tend to brand golden corgis as ‘designer dogs’ and justify selling puppies at inflated prices, so always be sure to seek out a breeder with a good reputation. Alternatively we’d encourage you to try out adoption and rescue sites to find your golden corgi pup too.

Is a Golden Retriever Corgi Mix Right for Me?

As you can see, golden corgis can make wonderful and adorable pets, but even with all their great traits, how do you know if they are the right dog for you? Before you head over to the rescue shelter or visit a breeder, you’ll want to make sure you’re a good match for your golden corgi pup. Chances are this mix will be perfect for you if…

• You don’t suffer from allergies – they are notorious shedders so their long coats won’t sit too well with pet dander allergies
• You are an active person – golden corgis need to burn off loads of energy, so be willing to meet their 60 minute exercise needs each and every day.
• You are financially secure – their multitude of health issues can mean potentially steep medical bills if conditions arise, so this is something to prepare for.
• You are willing to train them (if necessary) – if your golden corgi inherits more of the stubborn corgi genes, you may need to train them to iron some of their worst traits.
• You can give them the space to roam freely – apartments are not a problem if you have adequate space to play, though homes with backyards would be ideal.
• You are around for playtime – golden corgis love to bond and show affection to their owners, so you must have the time to make time for them!

Best Climate for a Golden Retriever Corgi Mix

Mild and traditional four-season climates are the best environment to raise your golden corgi in. Their thick double coats mean they can tolerate the cold well, but not extreme cold temperatures and definitely not hot climates.

In extreme heat, golden corgis can be at risk of heatstroke, so always make sure they have sunscreen applied in the summer months, and give them access to plenty of water and adequate shade when it gets warmer out.

The Attention a Golden Retriever Corgi Mix Needs

The golden retriever parent is a people pleaser through and through, and while the corgi parent breed is very friendly, they can have a needy side and become restless and prone to barking if left alone for long periods. For this reason, it’s a good idea to devote plenty of playtime with your golden corgi and spend enough time with them throughout the day.

Your golden corgi may well inherit the corgi breed’s tendency to develop separation anxiety, and if this is the case, this can be helped by taking them for walks before indoor playtime so they have back to back ‘me time’ with you and feel loved and secure.

Compatibility with Kids

Golden corgis have the potential to be very well-behaved and affectionate around children, though because of the corgi breed’s protective streak, your golden corgi pup will benefit from early socialization to make them more docile. Take them to visit relatives and kids as a puppy to get them acclimatized to new faces and new experiences.

Family homes with older kids tend to suit this mix breed a lot better than very young children because of the loud, excitable traits of the corgi parent breed.

Compatibility with Other Animals

Again as we’d advise with training them to become more compatible around kids, golden corgis should be well socialized around strangers from an early age (human and animal strangers!). If visiting friends and relatives homes isn’t an option, the best way to introduce other animals and pets to your young golden corgi is to take him out to the dog park.

Early training as well as socializing can help your pooch curb their overly protective traits and barking habits and get them to a place where they feel comfortable in the company of other pets and animals.

You Might Also Like:

• Corgi Pug Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Beagle Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Chow Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Rottweiler Corgi Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Pomeranian Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Border Collie Corgi Mix (Borgi)–Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Dachshund Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Australian Shepherd Corgi Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Lab Mix (Corgidor)-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Pitbull Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Poodle Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Husky Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Corgi Chihuahua Mix (Chigi)-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• German Shepherd Corgi Mix-Cost, Lifespan and Temperament
• Choosing a Corgi Mix Breed: Which is Best for Your Home?