Quick Facts
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The Look of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are long, low and solid. Their fox-like heads have wide and flat skulls, erect but slightly rounded ears and shapely muzzles. They have dark, widely set eyes that have an intelligent and alert expression. Cardigan Welsh Corgis have long necks, deep chests, short legs and long tails that are normally carried low. Their medium-length, dense coats can come in black, black & tan, blue merle or any shade of red, sable and brindle; they may also have white patches on the neck and around the body. Overall, Cardigan Welsh Corgis looks sturdy and strong without being rough or heavy.
Traits
- Gentle
- Hard-working
- Loyal
- Tough
- Reserved
Ideal Human Companion
- Singles
- Outdoorsy types
- Active people
- Ranchers
- Families
What They Are Like to Live With
Though Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis have been mistaken for each other over the centuries, they are entirely different breeds and have unique personalities. Pembrokes are bubbly, outgoing and sometimes fidgety. They love to play and run around outside, yet they also have quiet moments where they want to relax indoors. Cardigan Welsh Corgis, on the other hand, tend to be more reserved and standoffish with strangers and other pets. Though less sociable than Pembrokes, Cardigans are still just as loyal and eager to please.
Welsh Corgis are brave and loyal defenders of the home. They also have natural herding instincts that make them naturally protective of children and family members. Some are even known to lightly nip at heels to keep everyone moving in the right direction. In the house, they are quiet, clean and polite; that is, as long as they get enough attention and exercise.
If you work outdoors or have a farm, you could truly benefit from having a Welsh Corgi. For centuries they have been prized for their intelligence, obedience and determination.
Things You Should Know
Because of their shape, Welsh Corgis should be handled with care—like dachshunds they need to be held in a supportive, balanced way, if at all. Puppies will need to be taught how to go up and down stairs due to their short legs.
A healthy Pembroke Welsh Corgi can live as long as 15 years. Common health problems include spinal ailments and glaucoma. Welsh Corgis can also become obese if they are overfed: It’s best to feed them smaller portions throughout the day.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi History
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are one of the oldest dog breeds in England. The Central European Celts, who cherished them as beloved and sturdy companions, brought them over in 1200 B.C. Welsh farmers, many years later, used them to herd and manage cattle. Cardigan Welsh Corgis proved equally good as cattle drivers, pushing the herds out to pasture when royal pastures were opened for grazing. In the 19th century, Cardigan Welsh Corgis and Pembroke Welsh Corgis were mistakenly crossbred. That practice was stopped in the 20th century, and they are now each considered their own breed.
