Breed Type

Cardigan Corgis are in the working or herding group.

History of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Corgi is one of the oldest dog breeds originating in Britain. It was derived from the Teckel family of dogs (this family also produced the Dachshunds) and brought to Wales by migrating Celtic tribes in about 1200 BC. The ‘Cardi‘ was bred to herd cattle on unfenced common land and also used as farmyard vermin hunters and guard or alarm dogs. Qualities of loyalty, intelligence and a wonderful sense of humour make this dog an excellent companion and family animal.

Description

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a long, sturdy low set dog with a deep chest and prominent breastbone. The skull is broad and flat with large erect ears. The eyes are generally dark. The front legs of the CWC are sturdy, heavy boned and slightly bowed. The front feet should turn out slightly and be round with prominent knuckles. The tail is long, brushy and low-set. 

Size

12 inches/30cm at shoulders
Male - 30-38 pounds (13-17 kg)
Female - 25-34 pounds (11-15kg)

Coat

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has a classic Corgi coat which means a coarse medium length outer coat with a soft undercoat. The outer hairs should have a slightly harsh texture, not wiry but definitely not silky! The coat is water resistant and will undergo a major shed twice a year. CWC standards prefer the hair be straight and the length should be medium on the body with slightly longer and thicker hair on the ruff, the backs of the thighs and the tails underside. A fluffy coat, or one that is too long is a serious fault (AKC standards).
Any coloration with any combination of white markings is acceptable. The most common colours are brindle and white and black and white.

Temperament

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi standards describe the breed as: Even-tempered, loyal, affectionate, adaptable, alert, intelligent and steady. Not shy or aggressive. They are lively extroverts with a bold nature but can be reserved and even wary around strangers. The Cardi is well known for intense loyality to friends and family and makes an excellent family animal and companion. They have a strong sense of humor and make excellent guard dogs due to their tendency to alarm bark. They are active dogs and may attempt to herd people and children by nipping at their heels. But due to their intelligence and willingness to please, corgis can be easily trained out of this behaviour. 

Cardigan Welsh Corgi play with a big ball

Longevity

12-15 years

Health

The Cardigan Corgi is a robust need with no special health needs beyond the routine dog maintenance (grooming, teeth and ear cleaning, vaccinations, worming etc). It is very important to prevent them from becoming overweight and to keep good strong muscle tone as this will help prevent the development of spinal problems later in life.

Possible Genetic Disorders of the Cardigan Corgi

There are no very common genetic disorders in the breed. Eye screening is required of CWC breeders due to the presence of Progressive Retinal Atrophy and Persistent Pupillary Membranes in some lines. There is also a DNA test available for PRA. Hip Dysplasia scoring is also recommended for breeders but although the Cardigan can have dysplastic hips, they rarely suffer from the worst affects of the disease. Cardigan Corgis that are not kept at their best weight and fit can also be prone to Intervertebral Disk Disease.

Cardigan Welsh corgi puppyElderley Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Best Suited

To those with a good sense of humour and willing to share their home and life with a dog. You need to be committed to regular daily exercise and be willing to keep your Cardigan Corgi stimulated and responsible with dog obedience training.

Worst Suited

  • If you are a "neat freak". Dogs do need to be inside your house, and join you for rides in the car. Cardigan Corgis will undergo a major shed twice a year and shed moderately at other times - living with dogs means accepting some degree of "mess".
  • If you cannot commit to providing for your dogs needs for the next 12 years.
  • If you just want instant protection for your home and self. Corgis do make good guard dogs but they are first and foremost companion animals.

Recommended Reading

Cardigan Welsh Corgi (Comprehensive Owner's Guide)

The Complete Guide to Corgis: Everything to know about both the Pembroke Welsh and Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog breeds

Cardigan Welsh Corgi Training Guide. Cardigan Welsh Corgi Training Book Includes: Cardigan Welsh Corgi Socializing, Housetraining, Obedience Training, Behavioral Training, Cues & Commands and More

Cardigan Corgi puppies at six weeks