The Cardigan Welsh Corgi can be distinguished from the Pembroke Welsh Corgi by its brush-like tail and very long body. Known affectionately as ‘the Corgi with the tail,’ the Cardigan is a robust, lively companion, boasting a history that stretches back to 13th century Wales.
These small but sturdy dogs were originally bred for herding cattle and guarding farms. They are an intelligent, agile (despite their elongated frame) and tenacious.
Cardigans are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Herding Group.
Characteristics and Appearance
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog has a fox-shaped face and medium-to large-sized ears that are erect and rounded. It is a tough and lively small dog with a medium-length double coat and a thick bib of fur in front of the dog.
The breed is characterized by its long body, deep chest, and short legs, features that equipped it well for its traditional role in herding and farm work. Its medium-length double coat can range in color from red, brown, black, blue merle to tricolor. The bib is usually white.
Cardigans are surprisingly heavy for a small dog. The breed generally have a healthy weight between 25 to 35 pounds and stands 10 to 12 inches tall at shoulder height.
History of The Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan is thought to have originated in early 13th century Wales from the same ancestors that produced the Daschund and a Swedish Spitz-like dog. Welsh Corgis were used to herd cattle, guard the farm and hunt rats and other small animals.
The Cardigan was ranked 85th out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations.
Temperament of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Corgi has enough courage and intelligence to learn to do anything it is taught. Since the Corgi is also vigilant and somewhat territorial, it requires early socialisation and obedience training.
The hardworking breed can also be trained for agility or advanced obedience training. The Corgi will love the extra attention and work. The Corgi is fine with older children and house pets but territorial with strange cats and dogs.
The Cardigan is loyal and makes a good family pet and companion. Cardigans are naturally suspicious and make good watch dogs.
Training and Exercise
The Cardigan doesn’t need lots of exercise but does enjoy exercise and attention. The Corgi is happy being a ‘couch potato’ in front of the television and adapts quite well to apartment living. However, even those kept as companions need regular exercise to keep healthy and trim.
The intelligent and eager-to-please nature of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi makes training a rewarding experience. They naturally excel in obedience, agility, and herding activities, enjoying the mental and physical stimulation these activities provide. Positive reinforcement techniques are most effective, and early socialization and puppy training classes are recommended to help them develop into well-adjusted, obedient adult dogs.
Grooming
Cardigan Welsh Corgis require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance. Occasional brushing is necessary to remove dead hair and minimize shedding, with more frequent grooming needed during shedding seasons. Bathing should be done as needed, and as with all breeds, attention should be given to their nails, ears, and teeth to ensure overall health and well-being.
Despite their moderate shedding, regular grooming can help keep their coat in excellent condition and reduce the amount of hair in the home.
Health Considerations and Known Issues
Corgis have a fairly long life expectancy of 12 to 15 years and have few common health problems. Even though they are a hardy breed, they can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy.