Corgis make excellent pets for those seeking an agile and active companion to keep them on their toes. Don’t let the small package fool you; there is a lot of dog crammed into little corgi bodies. Corgis are lively creatures with larger than life personalities.
Appearance
Cute things often come in small packages, and the corgi is no exception. There are two kinds of corgis: the Cardigan Welsh and the Pembroke Welsh. The biggest physical difference between them is that the Cardigan has a tail, whereas the Pembroke has a little stump or no tail at all. Both types of corgis are mini low-riders with long, sturdy bodies set atop short, little legs. Corgis are medium-sized dogs weighing between 25 and 35 pounds and reaching a maximum height of 12 inches. If you enjoy big dog personalities but would prefer a canine companion that can’t easily knock you to the ground, the corgi just might be the right dog for you.
Temperament
Just because it is a dwarf breed doesn’t mean that a corgi can’t protect you. Corgis are known for their loyal and protective natures. Originally bred as herding dogs, corgis will quickly defend their human families like they would their flock. Since they are highly alert and aware of their surroundings, corgis will often sound the bark alarm at every unfamiliar noise, making them excellent watchdogs.
Most corgis have sociable and affectionate dispositions that help them become fast friends with their human and non-human companions. They thrive on attention and are eager to please but can become problematic if their energy is not properly channeled. Corgis are highly intelligent and enjoy problem-solving activities. If you like the idea of adopting a smart cookie with the potential to excel in obedience and performance training, the corgi could make an excellent addition to your family.
Grooming
Corgi hair has a habit of finding its way onto floors, furniture, clothing and even into food. Since they are double-coated dogs with a course outer topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat, corgis are heavy shedders. If you love the idea of owning a corgi but worry about the possibility of it becoming a hairy problem, don’t despair, because regular brushing can really help keep corgi shedding under control.
Health
Most corgis enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 15 years and are generally healthy dogs. Thanks to the vigilance of most corgi breeders, few corgis suffer from genetic health problems. Some potential health concerns to look out for include hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal Atrophy (PRA), and Von Willebrand’s disease.
Tips
Don’t delay in socializing your corgi or showing him who’s boss. Corgis are friendly and easy to train as long as they are socialized early and learn to accept humans as their pack leaders.
Corgis are sometimes too smart for their own good. Without ample physical and mental stimulation, a corgi might entertain his boredom with some mischief and destructiveness. Engaging your corgi in regular activities that exercise his body and mind will help keep him out of trouble.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Kristina Barroso is a full-time teacher who has been freelance writing since 1991. She published her first book, a break-up survival guide, in 2007 and specializes in a variety of topics including, but not limited to, relationships and issues in education. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida International University.