Cardigan Welsh Corgi Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

When ancient celts migrated from Europe to the British Isles, they arrived in Cardiganshire in Wales bringing with them their working dogs. Known as corgis or ci-illathed, which means 'yard long' dogs, these short and stocky dogs were used for several tasks such as guarding livestock and chasing away wolves and predators.

In records that date back to ancient Welsh laws, there are references to 'watch curs, 'house curs' and 'shepherd curs', each showing us the different important tasks this treasured dog had the responsibility for.

After the Vikings invaded wales they brought with them their Nordic Spitz breeds whose DNA eventually made its way into the Cardigan corgi, which would go on to make what would become the Pembroke Welsh corgi, which had smaller ears and a softer coat.

The Pembroke was perfect for cattle driving and as the raising of livestock became more prevalent it became the more popular variation on the corgi breed, though it wasn't until 1934 when the American Kennel Club recognized them as separate breeds.

The Cardigan is a lot less common to this day and though rarely used as working dogs they are still a popular choice for herding competitions where they can flex their ancient instincts.

Who are Cardigan Welsh Corgi dogs best for?

These agreeable dwarf dogs make a great choice for first-time owners or as family pets. They love to be silly and entertain but maintain a high level of trainability so they are easy students to imprint good habits on.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi would be best suited to people who live near the outdoors or like to take long walks as they thrive in nature when taking long walks.

They fit well with old as well as young family members and will form a loyal bond with every family member, always displaying a keenness to work and please.

This breed will gel well with cats or other dogs, provided they have been socialised from a young age. They tend to be a better choice for homes with older children who know how to behave around dogs.

They like to play and will quickly pick up the ground rules on what makes a fun play session as their driving motivation is to satisfy their owner.

How much grooming does a Cardigan Welsh Corgi need?

The Cardi has a low-maintenance coat of extremely weatherproofed fur with a soft, dense undercoat. They are a naturally clean breed and have no doggy smell.

They are a high-shedding breed and will need to be brushed only twice a week to shift any loose or dead hair and then a once-weekly wipe with a chamois leather to maintain their natural sheen.

Be sure to check inside their ears regularly to stay on top of wax build-ups. If too much accumulates it can be difficult to clear and may lead to painful infections which are easier to prevent than they are to cure.

Do Cardigan Welsh Corgi bark much?

When it comes to barking Cardis vary from animal to animal. Some can be a little too vocal while others will only bark to let you know there's a stranger nearby or if they're unhappy about something in their environment.

It's best to get on top of unwanted barking early on before it has a chance to become ingrained behaviour.

Do Cardigan Welsh Corgi bite?

Like most herding breeds the Cardigan Welsh corgi can exhibit herding behaviours as they follow their hardwired instincts.

This is especially important in homes with other pets or small children who a corgi might feel an irresistible urge to herd from to time, leading them to give a few unwanted nips.

This needs to be socialised out of them from an early age but fortunately, the Cardi enjoys a high level of trainability so this shouldn't be challenging as an owner.

What is the temperament & personality of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

The Welsh Cardigan had a long list of responsibilities on the farm in older times so they had to learn to be adaptable and hardworking, traits that they retain to this day.

They have strong guard dog tendencies but they don't have an aggressive tendency in their body and will simply alert you to danger than attacking the problem head-on. When they meet new people they may be cautious and a little standoffish but will soon warm up.

Despite their herding instincts, they are not as nippy as other dogs with high chase drives, making them a better choice for families with smaller children.

It's important to remember how comfortable they would be working on a farm all day and that their high levels of energy will need satisfaction. Whether running around open fields or taking long walks, make sure you are providing them with plenty of stimulating outdoor exercise.

What is the weight & size of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

Male and female Cardis show little variation in size and weight with both sexes being between 27-33cm when fully grown and weighing between 11-17kg with males being a few kilos heavier.

How much training does a Cardigan Welsh Corgi need?

For thousands of years, the Cardigan corgi has experienced a trainer/trainee relationship with humans and this is displayed by their intelligence and easy trainability. They pick up basic obedience skills and tricks easily and are often food and ball-motivated.

They love to rise to a challenge but will need to be shown who's in charge consistently as their spirits are naturally dominant and they will take the reigns if they see an opening.

Keep sessions short and interesting and while they don't react to overly harsh teaching styles they are hard workers and a firm touch will help them understand the message if they are being willful.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

The Cardigan is generally a healthy breed with just a few issues that are worth taking note of -

• Cancer

• Intervertebral Disk Disease

• Degenerative Myelopathy

• Ocular diseases, including progressive retinal atrophy

Like other dwarf dog breeds such as the dachshund, Cardigans are at high risk of a back injury which can occur from even mild impacts such as slipping on the stairs or falling off the couch.

Make sure they go upstairs gently, consider putting a non-slip carpeted runner on your steps to make it easier for them. Back issues can also be caused by weight gain, so be careful you aren't overfeeding them.

What is the lifespan of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

When fed an age-appropriate diet and cared for effectively Cardis can be expected to have a lifespan of between 12-15 years.

How much should you feed a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

If you're buying your Corgi from a breeder they will supply you with a feeding plan to ensure you are giving them the right nutrition at the right intervals. If you stray from this plan ensure you do it gently to avoid upset stomachs.

Cardi corgis are big eaters if left to their own devices so make sure they aren't gaining weight, especially after being spayed when dogs are more likely to gain a few extra lbs. Because of their tiny, compact size, willful any unnecessary weight can cause discomfort and health issues.

What is the price of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi in Australia?

This little dog is disproportionately pricey and while not as popular as their Pembroke cousins, their rarity will have you paying anywhere between $1200-$3000 for a puppy from a breeder.