Cardigan Welsh Corgis

Appearance:

Body: Long back, strong and well-boned with a deep chest, well-sprung ribs, and short powerful legs

Coat: Dense, somewhat harsh outer coat that lies smooth with a thick, weather resistant undercoat.

Color: Any shade of red, sable, or brindle. Also black, with or without tan or brindle points.

Ears: Large, prominent and pricked

Eyes: Medium size, round, dark, and set wide apart

Feet: Round, large, and well-padded. Forefeet are slightly angled outward and the hind feet our pointed straight

Head: Wide, flat, and fox-like with a moderate stop and black nose. His tapering muzzle is shorter than his tail

Legs: Short, strong, and capable of propelling him to speeds unexpected of such a small dog

Neck: Fairly long, muscular, and slightly arched

Size:
Weight: 25 - 38 pounds
Height: 10.5 - 12.5 inches

Tail: Fox-like and carried low

Behavior

Recommended for novice handlers

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a highly spirited and highly intelligent dog in a small body but with big ambitions. As Michele Welton put it in her book Your Purebred Puppy, he is a "Big dog on short legs." He is surprisingly athletic and an excellent competitor in sheepdog trials, as well as dog agility.

He was originally used to herd cattle and has maintained his instincts as a heeler. He will attempt to herd both people and other animals so if you feel something nipping at your heels, you will find your Welsh Corgi is the culprit. He will accept other family pets, including cats, but will instinctively drive off other animals from his territory.

Corgis are quick learners and respond well to obedience training. However, this is a keenly intelligent breed who might make you feel as though he is training you instead. Cardigans have the ability to think and solve problems so be sure to make his training and play sessions challenging and rewarding. He won't respond well to harsh treatment or punishment.

He is an affectionate, loving dog with a big heart and strong desire for human companionship. He will treat guests with respect, remain somewhat aloof with strangers, and don the role of watchdog by warning you of unwanted intruders. His friendly disposition and willingness to adapt to urban or country living make him an excellent pet for the family. Corgis are clown-like, fun loving and good with children. They enjoy participating in family activities and will go out of their way to please their owner.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Herding Group

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi was used to scatter or drive cattle to the fields and to chase cattle not owned by his master from his territory by nipping at their heels. Along with his herding abilities, he was also adept at hunting or chasing off small unwanted animals from the fields.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Moderate exercise including walks and chasing balls.

Grooming: Brush one to two times weekly; brush daily during shedding season.

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 Years

Possible Problems:
Hip problems
Back problems
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) or eye disease


Corgis can injure their backs by jumping off of furniture, leaping out of the backs of SUVs, and by the owner picking them up incorrectly. If you pick up your Corgi, be sure to provide the proper support to protect his back from being jolted out of joint or incurring disc injuries.

Country of Origin

Originated in Wales