A Pembroke Welsh Corgi running towards the camera

Welsh Corgis

Two breeds with a distinct look
A Pembroke Welsh Corgi running towards the camera

Welsh Corgis

Two breeds with a distinct look

About

Often spoken about as one breed, there are two specific breeds that can be classed as Welsh Corgis: the Pembroke, best know for their association with HRM Queen Elizabeth II and previous royals, and the Cardigan, and older and disctinct breed with more variation.

Not very long ago, both Corgi breeds were considered at risk as they had fallen out of popularity. In recent years, there has been an increase in their numbers.

Health

A Corgi owners needs to be aware of some of the common health issues that all dogs face as Corgis can be at greater risk. A good diet and regular exercise, alongside check ups from the vet will keep your pup in good health.

Hip Dysplasia

Symptoms: wobbly or unsteady when walking, reluctance to exercise or walk

A condition that can develop early in a Corgi’s development. A healthy, balanced diet and the right amount of exercise, not too much or too little, can help reduce the risk.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Symptoms: wobbling when standing or getting up, scraping paws on the ground

An issue with a dog’s spinal cord that affects their back legs. Over time, their hind legs become weaker and eventually the dog may be unable to use their back legs.

Von Willebrand Disease

Symptoms: frequent nosebleeds and bruises, bleeding for extended periods of time

A dog with Von Willebrand Disease has a reduced amount of a blood clotting protein and so has trouble recovering from different types of bleeding. It can be difficult to notice but can be managed well.

Appearance

The Cardigan Welsh Corgis are generally slightly bigger than their Pembroke cousin but both breeds are similar in size and weight.

Corgis are short dogs standing anywhere between 25cm to 32cm. They can weigh as much as 17kg but may be lighter depending on their size.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a limited range of registered colours. They tend to be two colours, either a shade of beige or red, and white.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi breed has a number of different standard colours ranging all the way from blue to black.

Behaviour

Corgis are small but energetic dogs with lots of enthusiasm for people, playing, and food. Make sure to manage your Corgi’s diet as they can be known to overeat.

Active dogs that will always want something to do, the Corgi breeds were originally put to work herding. They will benefit greatly from varied enrichment activities.

They can be known to bark a lot, but are breeds.

Friendly with Children

Friendly with Dogs

Suited to Compact Living

Happy with Strangers