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Welsh corgis are wonderful dogs with a long history that goes back over hundreds of years. There are two types of corgis: Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. They are livestock herders that nip at livestock’s’ heels to get them moving. These days, some corgis are still working dogs, but many more enjoy the good life as human companions.

Welsh corgisWhat’s the difference between a Cardigan corgi and Pembroke corgi?

They are similar in looks, although Cardigan corgis are bigger and Pembroke corgis look ‘foxier’. Pembroke corgis are more restricted color-wise. The standard accepted colors are red, sable, fawn, black and tan. All colors may have white markings. Cardigan corgis are any color with white markings, including red, sable, brindle, black and blue merle. There are some long-haired (or fluffy) corgis but they aren’t accepted as standard.

Thinking of a Corgi Puppy?

Welsh corgis are intelligent, working dogs with higher exercise needs than many people expect. They like to be busy and, like all dogs, require appropriate physical and mental stimulation. When people don’t understand these needs, behavior problems can occur and corgis end up surrendered to shelters or rescue organisations.

So if you’re looking for a corgi, why not contact a breed specific rescue organisation or your local animal welfare society to find out if there are any Welsh corgi puppies, teens or adult dogs available for adoption? If you want a pedigree Welsh corgi puppy instead, then look for reputable and registered breeders. All breeders worth their salt will invite you to visit their home and meet both parents.

Welsh Corgis Facts and Information

Group: Welsh Corgis (Cardigan and Pembroke) belong to the herding group of dog breeds.

Life expectancy: 12 – 16 years

Size: Medium.

Height: Cardigan corgi: 10.5 – 12.5 in.

Pembroke corgi: 10 – 12 in.

Weight: Cardigan corgi: 24 – 30 lb.

Pembroke corgi: 20 – 30 lb.

Temperament: Pembroke and Cardigan corgis are intelligent and loyal dogs, although Cardigans are aloof with strangers and form a strong bond with one particular family member. Pembroke corgis are more excitable than Cardigans, but both are playful and love to spend time with their humans.

Welsh corgi puppy

Exercise: As working dogs, both corgi types need mental and physical exercise. You need to walk corgis daily. If can, try to give them a chance to run and explore off-lead. Training is almost essential, not only to instill the good behaviors you want but also to tire them out mentally. Recommended dog sports include obedience, agility, and tracking and field work. Always use positive-reinforcement-based training and never use methods that rely on aversive techniques or punishment.

General care: Corgis don’t have coats that require a lot of maintenance. Once weekly brushing will suffice, although you might want to increase it to a couple of times a week during shedding season.

Health concerns: Corgis are prone to certain breed-specific health problems, including hip dysplasia, canine intervertebral disc disease (which affects dogs with long backs), progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, Von Willibrands Disease (blood clotting disorder) and degenerative myelopathy (disease that affects the spinal cord and hind legs).

Final word

Corgis are energetic and charming and can also be feisty little watchdogs, which makes them wonderful as family pets. Puppy classes and early socialization are necessary for them to get on with other dogs and children, but if done correctly your corgi will be a loyal, devoted and loving dog for all its days.

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