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Cardigan Welsh corgi

Updated: June 27, 2018
Cardigan Welsh corgi

The Cardigan welsh corgi is a small dog that used to be used to help shepherds in Whales. This breed is a close relative to the Pembroke welsh corgi. This breed is very loyal to its family. They are very intelligent and easy to train.

If you want to know more about the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, take a look at this AnimalWised breed file! We will cover its: origin, physical characteristics, needed education, care and health.

Origin
  • Europe
  • United Kingdom
FCI classification
  • Group I
Physical characteristics
Height
  • 5-14
  • 14-18
  • 18-22
  • 22-27
  • 27-31
  • More than 31
Adult weight
  • 2-7
  • 7-22
  • 22-55
  • 55-100
  • 100-220
Life expectancy
  • 8-10
  • 10-12
  • 12-14
  • 15-20
Recommended physical activity
  • Low
  • Meidum
  • High
Type of hair

Origin

This is one of the oldest breeds of dogs in Britain, so much so that its origin is unknown. Many believe however that it developed in the Welsh county of Cardiganshire, hence its name.

These dogs were initially used as guardians of both property and herds. However, when the Welsh shepherds became aware of this breed’s ability to herd the flock, they began to use them as shepherd dogs. Little by little the popularity of the Cardigan welsh corgi diminished until the breed almost became extinct. Fortunately, some of the breed survived and produced enough offspring to avoid extinction.

Until 1934 the Cardigan welsh corgi and the Pembroke welsh corgi were considered as a single breed of dogs, but in this year it was decided to separate both varieties into two different breeds. Sadly, the Cardigan never truly regained its previous popularity.

Physical characteristics

The ideal height at the cross of these dogs is 30 centimeters. Its weight should be in proportion to its size. Its robust and rustic body is notoriously longer than its height. It has very short and strong legs with thick bones.

The head of the welsh corgi Cardigan is similar to that of the head of a fox. Its nose is black and slightly protruding. It has medium-sized gentle looking eyes. Its eyes are dark colored, however, blue eyes are accepted in blackbird-colored dogs. Its ears erect with rounded tips and large in relation to dog’s overall size.

Its tail is moderately long and shows similarities to the tail of a fox. This is one of the characteristics that aids to differentiate a Cardigan welsh corgi from the Pembroke welsh corgi , since the latter has a small or no tail.

It has a straight, hard textured coat which can be between a short or medium length. Its undercoat is abundant. Its mantle can be of any color, but white should not be predominant.

Character

These dogs are very active, intelligent and alert. Like most shepherd dogs, Cardigan welsh corgis need a lot of physical and mental stimulation, as well as frequent company. Because of centuries of evolution as shepherd dogs, training turned them into reserved animals with strangers and aggressive with other dogs. Early socialization is very important with this breed. This socialization needs to have been introduced at a young age to avoid an aggressive or unsociable dog. This socialization will also help a lot in its relationships with other dogs. However, this breed will hardly ever be sociable with its own kind.

Apart from their tendency to be aggressive with other dogs and reserved with people, Cardigan welsh corgis can present other behavioral problems. Their strong grazing instincts can lead them to become barkers . They can also sometimes even nibble legs in an attempt to "herd" people. These behaviors can be avoided and channeled as long as these dogs are given the opportunity to partake in sufficient physical and mental exercise.

Care

The care of this breed’s coat is simple and it is usually sufficient to just brush it twice a week. It is not recommended to bathe these dogs very often because their fur can become damaged, therefore it only needs to be done when it is really necessary.

Exercise and mental stimulation are fundamental for good coexistence with these dogs. The Cardigan welsh corgi are active animals and need two moderate daily walks, in addition to some playtime. Interactive toys for dogs, which avoid boredom by mentally challenging these animals, are recommended for this animal, such as: the kong.

Training and practicing canine sports such as: freestyle herding and competitive obedience, can help channel this breed’s energy. However, agility sports are not advisable for this dog as it can damage their backs.

Welsh corgi Cardigan also need a lot of company and it is better if they live inside the house. When they receive enough exercise and proper canine education, they can live well in an apartment.

Education

In contrast to their possible shyness and socialization issues, these dogs are very intelligent and learn easily. Canine training is not only something that they enjoy, but it is a necessity to cover and challenge their intellectual needs. They may respond moderately well to traditional training, but their best qualities come to the surface with positive training.

When the nature of this breed is well understood, Cardigan welsh corgis can be excellent pets. However, its owner must accept that it will not be a highly sociable dog and they need devoted time with their owners.

Health

The Cardigan Welsh corgi are prone to some hereditary canine diseases, among which are:

  • hip dysplasia
  • progressive retinal atrophy
  • urolithiasis
  • degenerative myelopathy

They also tend to suffer easily from obesity, so it is important to control the amount of food they eat.

Either way, like with all breeds, we strongly recommend regular visits to your vet. In addition, we suggest strictly following your dog’s deworming and vaccine schedule. If you notice any strange behavior or symptoms from your dog , we recommend consulting a veterinarian immediately.

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