Owning a Dorgi pros and cons
Dorgi mix dogs have many wonderful qualities that they inherit from their parent breeds - Dachshund and Corgi. In some ways Dachshund dogs have many similarities with Corgi dogs. For example, both breeds feature short legs and elongated body. Both are confident and sociable, making these dogs suitable as family pets. Even in sizes Dachshunds and Corgis are not too far apart. Dorgi dogs combine the qualities of Corgi and Dachshund dogs in different proportions, making it difficult to predict the temperament and even the appearance of the puppies once they are full-grown. Potential owners who like surprises may find that having a very unique dog such as Dorgi is yet another advantage. Let's explore Dorgi dogs in more detail. What are the pros and cons of owning a Dorgi?
Although Dorgi dogs are absolutely adorable when it comes to their appearance, Dorgi personality is one of the reasons why so many people admire Dachshund and Corgi mix dogs. Outgoing and courageous, intelligent, friendly and very loyal to the owners - what's not to love about Dorgi dogs? One of the challenges to owning a Dorgi dog is that this dog tends to bark a lot. And as if barking frequently is not enough, the bark is loud and rather deep, which can be a con for people who live in crowded spaces such as apartment buildings or a densely populated city. Not everyone appreciates having a loud dog as a neighbor and Dorgi owners that are faced with the challenge of finding ways to keep their dogs more quiet may try different ways to keep a Dorgi less vocal. Training a Dorgi puppy to stop barking on command is a great idea, especially if you happen to live in a city.
Depending on whether your Dorgi has Mini Dachshund or Standard Dachshund as one of his parents, Dorgi size can range from 6 to 13 inches tall and up to 35 lbs in weight. It will be difficult to estimate the exact height and weight of a full grown Dorgi if you have a young pup. The closest estimation of your dog's full grown size that can be made is by meeting both parents of the Dorgi puppy to see how big they are. Typically Dorgi dogs get the size that is in a close range to his or her parents' sizes. With mixed dog breeds there are many uncertainties since genetics comes from two different breeds. This may be a disadvantage to people who want to have a clear idea of what temperament and size their pup will be once full grown.
Dorgi dog comes from two working breeds, Corgi are herding dogs and Dachshunds are hunting dogs. Active and full of energy just like their parents, Dorgi dogs need plenty of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. Keeping your Dorgi busy in productive ways is important as bored Dorgi dogs get in all sorts of trouble. A Dorgi that lacks sufficient exercise will keep himself or herself busy by barking or getting destructive around the home. It will be necessary to give your Dorgi at least three long walks every day to allow the dog spend the excessive energy in a constructive way. Even though Dorgi dogs have short limbs, these dogs make good walking partners for active people who enjoy being active outdoors.
In some cases Dorgi dogs may have strong hunting instinct and may chase small animals such as cats or birds, which can be a con. If you have other small pets at home, socialize your Dorgi puppy early on and supervise interactions between small pets such as hamsters and Dorgi dogs to avoid any unwelcome situations.
If you have a lush landscape, keep in mind that some Dorgi dogs enjoy digging and may rearrange your lovely flower beds. Some Dorgi owners dedicate an area where the dog is allowed to enjoy some digging in the yard. Just be sure to protect the areas that you want to preserve from digging by your pet when the dog is enjoying exercise in the yard.
Elongated body of Dorgi dogs presents some challenges because this dog is known to have a sensitive back. Jumping or high impact exercises that involve jumps or walking up or down the stairs are not recommended for Dorgi dogs. If your Dorgi likes to spend time on the family's couch, get pet stairs so Dorgi can easily get on the couch without having to jump and potentially get hurt. A comfortable dog bed is also important for Dorgi dogs and will be very much appreciated by your pet.
Pros and cons of owning a Dorgi dog
Pros of owning a Dorgi
Dorgi dogs make great companion pets for families and for single people alike
Dachshund Corgi mix dogs have average grooming needs
Dorgi dogs make great watchdogs
Dorgis are very intelligent
Cons of owning a Dorgi
Dorgi dogs love to bark frequently
Dorgi in some cases can be stubborn and independent-minded, making this dog challenging to train for novice dog owners
Dorgi dogs are prone to chasing small animals
Delicate elongated back means owners of Dadchshund Corgi Mix need to be mindful of high impact exercises that may cause back problems for Dorgies
Dorgi health problems
Generally, Dorgis are very healthy pups who live to about 15 years if well taken care of. However, they love eating and so weight gain is a factor to watch even as they are prone to other health conditions.
Here are some of the Dorgi health issues
Cataract, which is a condition that affects the Dorgi's eyes whereby an opacity appears in the dogs' eyes lens, leading to impaired vision and eventually total blindness. If detected early the surgery can be carried out to replace the damaged lens with a new one. Signs of the disease include dog bumping into walls or furniture.
Hip dysplasia, which is a hereditary condition and usually affects the dog's hip joint. Due to the malfunction and defectiveness of the joint, the dog suffers inflammation, pain and eventually lameness. Hip dysplasia can be detected through x-rays and scoring tests and can also be treated through drugs and surgeries.
Patellar Luxation, which is a condition that is common in small breeds. It affects the kneecap by jumping out the correct place on both sides. The condition causes lameness and pain. It may be as a result of an injury or just hereditary. Affected dogs will keep the leg slightly off the ground due to pain and discomfort. To reduce pain, anti-inflammatory drugs are administered.
Achondroplasia. Due to their long spines, shallow rib cages and short legs, Dorgi back is very sensitive. Dorgi dogs are prone to skeletal issues such as spinal deviation, intervertebral disc disease, abnormal skeletal growth, and enlarged joints. Dorgi owners are advised against making their Dorgis jump. When picking them off the floor the back should be parallel to the ground, to avoid causing injuries to the dog's sensitive back.
Dorgi dog information
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