Adorable and lots of fun, Cardigan Welsh Corgis pack a big personality into their little furry bodies. These squat, strong, and long dogs are a somewhat rare breed. They're also known for being a bit more tenacious than their Pembroke (tailless) Corgi-cousins.
These brave and boisterous pups are herding dogs — the shortest dogs of the group. Some also work as therapy dogs, herding people's emotions rather than livestock.
Originally from Wales, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 25-38 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Herding group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Herding |
| Origin | Wales |
| Breed group | Herding |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 81 |
| Family | Livestock, herding |
| Date of origin | Ancient times |
| Original function | Cattle driving |
| Today's function | Cattle driving, herding trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 10.5-12.5 Weight: 30-38 |
| Average size of female | Height: 10.5-12.5 Weight: 25-34 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Low |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A CARDIGAN WELSH CORGI'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are all personality. They're smart, affectionate, amiable, and seldom shy. They might try herding younger kids, so Cardigan Welsh Corgis are a better for families with more mature children. Cardigans can be standoffish around other dogs, so socialization is important. They're friendly with other pets and small animals and usually happy to meet strangers.
WHAT IS CARDIGAN WELSH CORGI BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are surprisingly speedy and graceful. These powerful little bundles of energy need regular exercise and love to play outdoors.
This breed is alert, vigilant, and very protective. They can be somewhat prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A CARDIGAN WELSH CORGI?
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are very smart and definitely trainable, but they require patience and consistency.
Regular exercise is important to keep their busy bodies and minds active. Plan for daily walks or rompy games in the backyard.
They often excel in rally, flyball, agility, tracking, obedience, and herding (of course!).
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO CARDIGAN WELSH CORGIS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Cardigan Welsh Corgis' thick, medium-length double-coat is water-resistant. Their soft undercoats are overlaid with a coarse outer coat.
Those fluffy coats need regular brushings, at least once a week. Cardigan Welsh Corgis are seasonal shedders who should only require occasional professional grooming. Their fur sloughs off a lot of dirt and is nearly odorless.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO CARDIGAN WELSH CORGIS HAVE?
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are a sturdy breed. Many develop back problems (consider getting doggie stairs to help your Cardigan Welsh Corgi get into cars or up to cuddle you on the couch.)
Some are prone to progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and — rarely — progressive paralysis affect older Cardigan Welsh Corgis.
