It is thought that the ancestors of the Cardigan Welsh corgi were first brought to Wales over 3,000 years ago. Celtic tribes from central Europe migrated to Wales and brought along their dogs. It is thought that the dogs of the Vikings bred with the original corgis, resulting in the Pembroke Welsh corgi. Cardigan Welsh corgis were originally used on farms to protect the cattle from predators. The dogs also helped herd and drive the cattle to both the fields and the market. These dogs were so valuable to farmers that they were protected by law against theft or harm. The dog was first entered in a show in 1919. The English Cardigan Welsh Corgi Association was founded shortly after in 1926. In the early 1900s, the Pembroke and cardigan were considered to be the same breed. The breed was split and introduced to the United States in 1931.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgie (also know as Corgie) is a small, low-set dog, which is much longer than it is tall. Even though it’s small, this little dog is a firecracker. It is capable to run at great speed and is very agile. As a herder, it is naturally able to show great endurance. It has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a straight, flat over coat. It needs regular brushing.
Personality
The Cardigan is an active and mellow little dog breed. Some people underestimate the Cardigan because of its size. This fun-loving, playful dog needs a lot of physical exercise in the form of walks or a vigorous game. They are obedient but tend to be yappy. It’s gentle with kids as long as they are not too rough. It tends to be reserved towards strangers and other dogs.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Herders |
| Function: | Sporting |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Herding |
| Life Span: | 10-12 Years |
| Nicknames: | Corgie, Cardi, Cardigan |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Cardigan Welsh Corgi Build Information
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi (also know as Corgi) is a small, low-set dog, which is much longer than it is tall. Even though it’s small, this little dog is a firecracker. It is capable to run at great speed and is very agile. As a herder, it is naturally able to show great endurance. It has a double coat with a soft undercoat and a straight, flat over coat. It needs regular brushing.
| Size: | Small |
| Length (Male): | 8-12 in. |
| Length (Female): | 10-12 in. |
| Weight: | 26 – 40 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
The Cardigan is an active and mellow little dog breed. Some people underestimate the Cardigan because of its size. This fun-loving, playful dog needs a lot of physical exercise in the form of walks or a vigorous game. They are obedient but tend to be yappy. It’s gentle with kids as long as they are not too rough. It tends to be reserved towards strangers and other dogs.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Moderate |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Submissive |
| Energy Level: | Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
Cardigan’s have a double hair coat. There is a thick undercoat and a long, thick topcoat. The breed sheds all year long, but sheds heavily twice each year. The dog should be brushed every day to prevent loose hair from covering the home. Unless you are unable to brush or bathe your dog on your own, it does not need professional grooming. Most owners find that they can maintain their dog’s coat, nails and ears quite easily at home.
| Colors: | Black, Black & Tan, Blue, Red |
| Shedding: | Seasonal |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Fine |
Cardigan Welsh Corgi Common Health Conditions
The Cardigan Welsh corgi is a generally healthy breed of dog. Of purebred dogs, they experience the fewest number of genetic health issues. The breed is predisposed to intervertebral disk disease and progressive retinal atrophy. When you buy a puppy, look for one from a breeder that has had the parents health tested and certified against these two diseases.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
This breed is very vocal. If you do not enjoy a dog that barks, you won’t enjoy the cardigan Welsh corgi. The breed is a great herding dog. If you have small children, this may not be a good thing. Plan on daily exercise with your corgi. Potty training can be difficult with this independent breed. The breed is a descendant from the same ancestors as the basset hound and Dachshund. This dog is a heavy shedder and may not be suitable for people who want to maintain a spotless home. The Cardigan Welsh corgi is also referred to as the “Cardi” and the “Cardigan”.
| Training: | Hard |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | Yes |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | No |
