Corgi

When looking for a bright, sturdy, energetic friend, look no further than the Corgi. An ancient breed, the Corgi’s manageable size and big personality make them popular pets for both individuals and families. A favorite of the Queen of England, these dogs started like as a working dog. These days, they enjoy a reasonably active lifestyle, have few health issues, and are highly trainable. For many people out there, the Corgi is absolutely the perfect pet and friend for them!

Basic Information About Corgis

These dogs are commonly known as the Corgi or Welsh Corgi. However, they are two distinct dog breeds that originated in Wales. The official name is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi or the Cardigan Welsh Corgi depending on breed. Considered among the oldest breeds in British Isles, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi predates the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Both are loyal, working-breed dogs used for herding cattle and guarding livestock. The name Corgi comes from the Welsh “cor gi”, meaning “dwarf dog”, and refers to this dog's compact size.

Cardigan Corgis are long, with stocky legs that keep the dog low to the ground. They have large pointed ears and a fox brush tale. Pembroke Corgis are similar in shape and stature, but they may have long, docked or naturally bobbed tails. Cardigan Corgis typically measure 10.5-13 inches tall, while Pembroke Corgis are slightly smaller, measuring 10-12 inches tall. Cardigan Corgis can weigh anywhere from 25-34 pounds pounds for females while the larger males can weigh 30-38 pounds. For the smaller Pembroke Corgis, females weigh from 24-28 pounds while males weigh 24-31 pounds. These dogs sport a medium-length double coat that can come in a variety of colors. Official colors for Cardigan Corgis are red, sable, brindle, black with or without tan, and blue merle with or without brindle or tan points. Official colors for Pembroke Corgis are fawn, red, blue, sable, black and tan, and black and white.

Specific Care for a Corgi

Because Corgis are a working breed, these dogs crave purpose and friendship. Corgis do best in households that can offer moderate exercise. They require several leashed walks per day or designated time outside in the yard to run and play. Corgis are intelligent and willing to please, so obedience training or other types of stimulating activities are recommended. Corgis that aren't sufficiently exercised or entertained may become destructive out of boredom. Because Corgis tend to become overweight as they age, a high-quality diet of lean proteins is an important addition to regular exercise. The thick coat of the Corgi requires regular brushing to prevent matting or knots. Spaying or neutering is also recommended to prevent unwanted pregnancies or aggressive tendencies. Overall, the Corgi is a generally healthy dog with an average lifespan of 10-12 years as long as proper diet and weight are maintained.

Buying and Adopting a Corgi

When making the decision to buy or adopt a Corgi, it is important to first conduct adequate research. If choosing to buy a Corgi, it is essential to research breeders in your area. Read reviews or ask the breeder for a veterinary reference to verify the quality of care the dogs receives. Arrange to tour the breeding facilities, meet the dame of the puppies you are considering and address specific questions or concerns you have to the breeder. These concerns should include health, temperament and breeding practices. Never purchase a puppy from a breeder who you feel does not properly care for their animals. If adopting, contact local shelters to see if they currently have any Corgi type dogs in their pens. If they do, you may be able to meet and evaluate them immediately. If no Corgis are currently available, you may be able to leave your contact information with shelter staff for later intakes. Additionally, shelter staff may be able to provide information on breed-specific Corgi rescues in your area. Regardless if you choose to buy or adopt, it is always necessary to gather as much information as possible before deciding on a dog.