If you’re searching for a fun, loyal, and family-friendly dog, you might want to consider an Auggie. Auggies are a mix between Australian Shepherd and Corgi. Known for their energy, intelligence, and cuteness, these dogs can be a great addition to any household. Whether you’re looking to adopt a rescue or bring home a puppy, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Auggies.
About the Breed
Auggies are a hybrid dog breed that combines the traits of two beloved breeds: the Australian Shepherd and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. These small to medium-sized dogs are known for their intelligence, energetic nature, and affectionate personality.
Quick Facts
- Size: 10 to 13 inches tall
- Weight: 20 to 30 pounds
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
- Temperament: Friendly, active, intelligent
- Best For: Active families, homes with children, or homes with yards
Temperament and Personality
One of the best things about Auggies is their friendly and outgoing nature. They are known to bond deeply with their family members and love to be around people. Auggies are playful, energetic, and full of personality, making them excellent family pets.
Intelligent and Easy to Train
Auggies are highly intelligent and quick learners. They enjoy activities that challenge their minds, such as learning new tricks or playing puzzle games. This makes them relatively easy to train, especially if you start young.
Social and Affectionate
Auggies thrive on human interaction and love being part of the family. They’re great with kids and usually get along well with other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age. Because of their affectionate nature, Auggies often follow their owners around, making them wonderful companions.
Physical Traits
Auggies inherit physical traits from both parent breeds, resulting in a variety of appearances. Typically, Auggies are short and stout like Corgis, with a longer body and short legs. They also have the thick double coat of an Australian Shepherd, which comes in a variety of colors.
For some fun facts about Auggie, their unique blend of traits from both breeds makes them not only visually striking but also exceptionally lovable.
Coat and Grooming Needs
Auggies’ coats can come in different colors, including black, brown, blue merle, or red merle. While their coats are beautiful, they do require regular grooming. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Additionally, Auggies shed quite a bit, so frequent brushing helps keep your home cleaner.
Exercise Requirements
Auggies are active dogs and need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Daily walks, playtime in the yard, or trips to the dog park are great ways to keep them physically active. These dogs are also mentally sharp, so they enjoy games that challenge their problem-solving skills, such as hide-and-seek or agility training.
Health Considerations
Auggies, like all dog breeds, can face certain health challenges. By understanding these potential issues, you can take steps to keep your Auggie healthy.
Common Health Issues
Hip Dysplasia
This is a common issue in many dog breeds, including Auggies. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to discomfort or arthritis as the dog ages.
Degenerative Myelopathy
A progressive disease affecting the spinal cord, leading to weakness and eventually loss of function in the hind legs. Corgis, one of the parent breeds, are prone to this condition.
Eye Problems
Some Auggies may inherit eye conditions like cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to vision problems.
How to Keep Your Auggie Healthy
Routine vet visits, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help prevent many of the common health problems associated with this breed. It’s also important to be mindful of their weight, as Auggies can be prone to obesity if overfed.
Adopting an Auggie
If you’re thinking about adding an Auggie to your family, you have a couple of options: adopting from a rescue or purchasing from a breeder. Each option has its benefits, so it’s important to choose what’s right for you.
Auggie Rescues
Adopting a rescue Auggie can be a rewarding experience. Many dogs in rescues are looking for loving homes, and by adopting, you’re giving them a second chance at life. When adopting from a rescue, ask about the dog’s background and health, as some rescue dogs may have special needs.
Some rescue organizations that may have Auggies or similar breeds include:
- Corgi Rescues:
Corgi-specific rescues often have Auggies available.
- Australian Shepherd Rescues:
Since Auggies are half-Australian Shepherd, these organizations may also have Auggie mixes.
Finding a Responsible Breeder
If you prefer to purchase an Auggie puppy, be sure to find a reputable breeder. A responsible breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of the puppies. They should be willing to provide health certificates for the puppies and show you where the dogs are kept. Avoid breeders who don’t allow you to meet the puppies’ parents or who refuse to answer questions about the dog’s health.
Is an Auggie Right for You?
Auggies make fantastic family pets, but they do require time and attention. They are ideal for active families or individuals who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. If you’re looking for a dog that’s loyal, intelligent, and full of energy, an Auggie might just be the perfect fit.
For those interested in the potential benefits of having an Auggie as an emotional support animal, understanding the ESA registration process can be valuable. However, they may not be the best option for people who live in small apartments or those who are away from home for long periods. Auggies can get bored easily, which may lead to destructive behaviors if they don’t get enough attention or exercise.
Auggies are lovable, energetic, and intelligent dogs that can make wonderful family pets. Whether you adopt from a rescue or purchase from a breeder, it’s important to understand their needs to ensure they thrive in your home. With the right care, an Auggie will be a loyal and loving companion for years to come.
Helpful Resources
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FAQs
1. Are Auggies good with children?
Yes, Auggies are generally great with children. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them excellent companions for kids, though supervision is always recommended, especially with younger children.
2. Do Auggies shed a lot?
Yes, Auggies shed quite a bit, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing can help manage the shedding and keep their coat healthy.
3. How much exercise do Auggies need?
Auggies are high-energy dogs and need at least 45 minutes to an hour of exercise each day. This can include walks, playtime, or mental stimulation games.
4. Can Auggies be left alone for long periods?
Auggies don’t do well when left alone for long periods. They can become bored and may develop destructive behaviors if they don’t get enough mental and physical stimulation.
5. How long do Auggies live?
Auggies typically live between 12 to 15 years with proper care, a healthy diet, and regular vet visits.