Quick Stats for the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
- Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 10 – 13 inches (25 – 33 cm)
- Weight: 25 – 30 pounds (11 – 14 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
- AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1935
- Shedding: seasonal shedder – twice per year
- Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); can be very active indoors; okay without a yard
Personality of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is an energetic dog. They are intelligent, obedient, fun-loving and friendly. These dogs make excellent pets as well as great watchdogs. They are great with children.
They are friendly towards people and other household pets. However, they can be reserved when a strange dog approaches them.
Corgis have a tendency to herd people by nipping at their heels and should be taught not to do this from an early age.
History of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has its origin in Wales, going back to ancient times. They were one of the first breeds to arrive in the British Isles. These dogs were brought to Cardiganshire from central Europe many centuries ago. They were used to drive cattle.
Where the breed actually came from is unknown. However, some experts believe that the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a descendant of a short-legged, English turn-spit dog that is now extinct.
The breed was originally used to protect and guard their families. Some of these dogs were used to assist hunters. Eventually, framers realized that the breed was a natural cattle dog, great at keeping cattle moving by nipping at their heels. There were also agile enough to dodge any kicks from the cattle.
Over time, the Crown lands were divided and fenced. This made the Corgi’s job and usefulness all but go away. Some dogs were still kept as companions, but the breed almost became extinct.
To preserve the breed, it was crossed with the brindle herder. The breeding efforts worked well and the first Cardigan Welsh Corgi made its way to the United States in 1931. The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1935 as a member of the Herding Group.
These dogs are cousins to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Care and Grooming
Although Corgis are small dogs they still require sufficient exercise. They have moderate energy levels so take them on a couple of brisk walks daily, or provide them with active games in a safely enclosed area. They love herding activities and can get mental stimulation through dog training sessions.
Grooming requirements include a weekly brushing of their wiry, medium length coat to remove any dead hairs. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, such as a quality brush from Chris Christensen.
These dogs are seasonal shedders, shedding twice per year.
Health Problems of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The average life expectancy of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is about twelve to fifteen years.
Major health concerns for this breed are:
- CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
Minor health issues include:
- degenerative myelopathy
- gains weight easily
These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:
- PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
- urinary stones
Veterinarians recommend having the Cardigan Welsh Corgi tested specifically for PRA, hip, and eye problems.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia
For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:
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