Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)

The Welsh Corgi (Pembroke and Cardigan) is a low-set dog with a body somewhat long in proportion to its short legs. It is sturdy, but athletic and active. The breed’s head has a foxy quality and appearance, with large upright ears and a bushy tail that should be carried high when the dog is excited or moving.

The Cardigan has a short or medium-length coat which comes in an intriguingly wide range of colours including red, sable, brindle, black, blue merle and black and tan.

Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) were first bred in Pembrokeshire in Southern Wales as cattle dogs, or ‘homestead’ dogs. The breed is a combination of the local herding dogs, much like the black and tan Lancashire Heelers, and the Spitz breeds, like Vallhunds, brought over by the Vikings who landed around the Pembrokeshire coast.

The Cardigan Corgi was also originally bred to work closely with the farmers of Wales as a herder of cattle, guard dog and companion. These qualities mean that, even today, a typical Corgi likes to organise its family and is resilient and innovative.

The Cardigan Corgi is biddable, ready to please, as well as independent and resourceful. The breed is totally devoted to those it loves and can adjust to almost any lifestyle, be it herding livestock or living in a city apartment.

The Welsh Corgi is a robust, generally healthy dog with an average life expectancy of 12-16 years, and often it is still very healthy and playful up until the end. There are no very common health issues, but the breed can have Hip Dysplasia and Von Willebrand Disease, a blood clotting disorder. Knowledgeable breeders have tests for these and screen breeding stock so that these conditions do not become more common.

The Cardigan Corgi’s short coat requires no stripping or trimming, but will benefit from a daily brush and an occasional bath. The breed is perfectly happy with a small yard, as long as the owner takes it on a brisk walk daily.