Corman Shepherd Dog Breed

The Corman Shepherd, as a mixed breed, is not an official member of any breed group--though both the Corgi and the German Shepherd are members of the Herding group of most kennel clubs, so these hybrids would fit into that category as well. No info exists about the exact origin of the German Shepherd-Corgi mix, but this dog was likely developed in the late 20th or early 21st century, probably in North America. Cormans are energetic, intelligent herding dogs that are best suited to families willing to give them plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

A few Corman Shepherd facts: they're small- to medium-sized, and vary a good bit in stature (from 12 inches in height and 20 pounds in weight to 15 inches and 70 pounds); they have thick, double-layered coats that shed seasonally; and because of their herding instinct, they'll often try to control (or "herd") moving objects like people and other animals.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning these task-oriented dogs:

The Corgi-German Shepherd mix is the offspring of two excellent dog breeds--and the resulting hybrid can exhibit a variety of traits: from the goofiness, high barking tendencies, and big appetites of the Corgi, to the courage, versatility, and protectiveness of the German Shepherd.

One thing is for sure, though: Cormans will be more active than you are! As both parent breeds were developed to be herders, these hybrids have energy to burn, and will be up for physical activities from walking or jogging, to a fierce game of fetch, to even agility or obedience competitions, anytime their owners are. Cormans also like to "herd" moving objects--kids, other pets, even bicyclists--by "nipping" at them to control them. This behavior will need to be curbed through obedience training and socialization, starting in puppyhood if possible. Overall, though, Cormans are intelligent, enthusiastic dogs that will make great additions to any active family.

Cormans' high energy levels and intelligence mean they bore easily--so owners will want to provide a lot of physical and mental activity to avoid any unwanted behavior in the dogs.

Active, friendly, intelligent, protective, and sometimes goofy (and stubborn), the Corgi-German Shepherd mix temperament is one of both business and pleasure. These hybrids will be affectionate to family members, and very protective of them (especially children). They're also fun-loving most of the time, and make great playmates. Cormans might, particularly if they inherit more German Shepherd traits, be over-protective around strange people and animals, in which case they'll need training and socialization to curb their possessiveness. They also get along with other pets, particularly if they're raised together.

These hybrids' intelligence and willingness to please makes Cormans pretty easy to train too. They can be stubborn, though, so trainers might need a few repetitions when teaching them tasks, tricks, and commands. As with any breed, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And Cormans usually make good watchdogs (especially if their behavior is more like the German Shepherd). They're alert and curious, and will likely sound a vocal alarm if they perceive an unknown sight or sound. Depending on their size, Cormans might be able to neutralize potential threats as well.

The Corman Shepherd, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits from its parent breeds), is very healthy, with few known inherited issues. A few Cormans may suffer from ailments including joint dysplasia, allergies, and cataracts (and if the dog is especially large and deep-chested, bloat may be a problem too). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Corman Shepherd life expectancy can vary from 10 to 15 years.