5 Things to Know About Cardigan Welsh Corgis

AKC Group
Herding

Weight
25-38 lbs.

Height
10.5-12.5 in.

Life Span
12-15 years

1. Key Characteristics of Cardigan Welsh Corgis

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a long, stocky, fox-like dog with a long, low-to-the-ground tail. The Cardigan's coat may be any color.

Their ears are larger and wider-set than those of the breed's cousin, the Pembroke Corgi. The eyes are often brown, but blue eyes are not uncommon.

2. Where Cardigan Welsh Corgis Come From

An old breed, this dog has a history that dates to the 1200s. It was brought from Central Europe to Cardiganshire, Wales.

Cardigan Welsh Corgis were originally cattle herding dogs and became invaluable during a time when all the land was owned by the Crown — but the more land a farmer used, the better off his cattle were.

Thus, a dog who could drive cattle far and wide became an essential part of economic success, and Corgis became a household dog.

Sometimes called a "yard-long dog," Cardigans were bred to measure a Welsh yard (longer than an English yard) from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tail.

They come from the same line that produced the Dachshund. And until 1934, the Pembroke and the Cardigan were thought of as the same breed, despite having different origins. As a result, the 2 breeds were interbred and now have more in common than not.

3. How Friendly Are Cardigan Welsh Corgis?

These dogs respond well to training exercises.

They are alert and intelligent, with a high level of agility.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is an excellent family dog, adapting well to either country or city life, although they might herd children! (Actually, for some busy parents, this could be seen as a plus.)

4. Is This the Right Dog for You?

Exercise Needs

■■■■■■ ■■ HIGH:

Ideally, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi will regularly use their herding instincts. However, 1 hour of exercise a day in a yard, dog run or other open space may be enough to satisfy this dog.

Some Corgis need more than just exercise, so be prepared to meet these needs, as a bored dog can destroy your home.

If you don’t live on a farm, canine agility training can serve the same purpose as farm work. Corgis are often in the top ranks of successful agility dogs.

Grooming Needs

■■■■ ■■■■ MEDIUM:

Brush your Cardigan Welsh Corgi at least once a week. These dogs have a thick coat and will shed if not groomed regularly.

Health Problems

■■■■ ■■■■ MEDIUM:

The primary health concerns of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi are genetic in nature, so choose a responsible breeder. Problems can include: Hip dysplasia Degenerative myelopathy Progressive retinal atrophy

Having genetic defects is not unique to Corgis — all purebred dogs can have some inherited issues.

More Stats About Cardigan Welsh Corgis

Learn more about these herding dogs in this video:

5. How to Adopt a Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Interested in adopting a Cardigan Welsh Corgi? Search for one using Petful’s adoptable pets feature, or contact the Cardigan Welsh Corgi National Rescue Trust.

References

• "Cardigan Welsh Corgi." American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/cardigan-welsh-corgi/.
• "History of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi." Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America. https://cardigancorgis.com/cwcca/breed/history/.
• "Breed Information Centre: Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Health." Cardigan Welsh Corgi Association. https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/health.aspx?id=5144.