The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a beloved breed known for its intelligence and loyalty. They originated from Wales, specifically in the Cardigan region.
These dogs are relatively small in size, typically weighing between 25-38 pounds and standing about 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder.
Their short stature belies their energetic nature - they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
General Information
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a long, low dog with upright ears and a fox brush tail.
They are highly valued for their herding, working, and guarding skills, as well as their companionship.
Cardigans come in a variety of colors including any shade of red, sable, or brindle.
Their double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
Description
The Cardigan is a long, low dog with upright ears and a fox brush tail.
They originated as farm guardians but later took on roles like cattle drovers, herders, and more. Their versatility earned them high value for herding, working, and guarding skills, as well as companionship.
Cardigans are double coated and come in various colors including red, sable, brindle, black, and blue merle.
The average Cardigan stands 10 to 13 inches tall at the withers and weighs between 30 to 38 pounds for males or 25 to 34 pounds for females.
Litter size can vary but usually ranges from four to six puppies.
History
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi breed has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. They originated in 1200 B.C. when the Celts migrated with them from central Europe to Wales in the British Isles.
Their name comes from the ancient kingdom of Cardiganshire and is a variation of the Celtic word for "dog." The Cardigan Welsh Corgi was considered a single breed with the Pembroke until 1934, but they were officially recognized as distinct by The Kennel Club in Britain by that year.
The first pair of Cardigans arrived in the U.S. in the early 1930s and the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized them as a breed in 1935. The AKC is a great resource for finding reputable breeders, which you can find on their website.
Cardigan prices average between $800 and $2,000, depending on the breeder.
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Breed Characteristics
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a compact dog with a sturdy build and short legs, typically weighing between 25-38 pounds and standing between 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder.
They have a broad head with a well-defined stop, a black nose, and erect ears that are triangular in shape. Their eyes are dark brown and almond-shaped.
Their coat is medium-length and comes in a variety of colors including red, sable, brindle, and blue merle. They shed moderately throughout the year.
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are highly intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Health and Wellness
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are prone to hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition that affects the hip joint and can lead to pain and arthritis.
Mild cases can be managed with weight loss, pain medication, and joint supplements, while surgery may be recommended for severe cases.
Regular exercise is essential for your Cardigan's overall health, but don't overdo it at first. Start with short walks and gradually increase the duration and intensity as your dog becomes more comfortable.
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To prevent hip dysplasia, keep an eye on your Corgi's weight, as being overweight can exacerbate the condition. A high-quality diet appropriate for their age is crucial to maintain a healthy weight.
Here are some general health tips for Cardigan Welsh Corgis:
- Brush your dog at least weekly, and daily during shedding season.
- Clean your dog's ears weekly, even as a puppy.
- Keep your dog's teeth clean by brushing them at least twice a week.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent common health issues in Cardigan Welsh Corgis and keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.
Genetic Predispositions
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are prone to hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition that causes pain and arthritis.
This condition can be managed with weight loss, pain medication, and joint supplements for mild cases, but surgery may be necessary in more severe instances.
Stiffness in the elbows or hips is a common symptom of hip and elbow dysplasia, an inherited disease that affects both joints.
You may notice lameness in your dog's legs or difficulty getting up from lying down as they mature.
Overweight dogs are at greater risk for developing arthritis years earlier than their normal-weight counterparts.
Early treatment is crucial to minimize discomfort and pain, so be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of stiffness or lameness.
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What to Watch
Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem.
The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently.
Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms.
A clear signal that your dog needs help can come from being able to recognize these combinations of symptoms.
Pet Nutrition
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are intelligent and eager to please dogs that thrive on attention and exercise.
Their low, sturdy build requires a daily walk to keep them happy and healthy.
Adult Cardigans should eat twice a day, while puppies need to eat more frequently, up to four times a day.
To prevent overfeeding, establish a consistent feeding schedule for your Cardigan.
Your AAFCO-approved dog food will provide feeding guidelines on the packaging that you can follow.
Talk to your vet for tailor-made feeding instructions for your dog.
Choosing the right food and water bowls is essential; stainless steel or ceramic bowls are most suitable for Cardigans, as they're easy to clean.
Avoid plastic bowls, which can irritate your pup's skin while eating.
On a similar theme: Pembroke Welsh Corgi Food
Coat Care
Cardigan Welsh Corgis have a double coat that sheds.
Regular brushing can help maintain their coat health and appearance, prevent matting, and ensure they are comfortable and happy.
A daily walk is essential for Cardigans, but it's also crucial to provide them with regular grooming care to minimize shedding around the home.
Cardigans need attention to their fluffy, foxlike tails to prevent matting, which can be painful for them.
Regular brushing can help keep their coats in good condition, making them a delight to have as family pets.
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Training and Behavior
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are highly intelligent and eager to learn, making them responsive to training.
They thrive on positive reinforcement training methods and mentally stimulating activities that harness their natural curiosity.
A combination of physical exercise and mental stimulation is key to a happy Cardigan Welsh Corgi.
Daily walks lasting 20-30 minutes can help meet their moderate energy level needs.
Cardigans are adaptable dogs that can live well with other pets and children, especially when raised with them and properly socialized.
However, they may exhibit herding behaviors due to their background, such as attempting to round up young children or other pets.
Providing ample mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys can help curb this behavior.
Cardigans are alert dogs that tend to bark at perceived environmental threats or changes, so it's essential to teach them what constitutes a legitimate threat.
They can also be prone to anxiety when left alone for extended periods, so regular exercise and mental stimulation can help alleviate this issue.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Why Are Corgis so Popular
Health Issues
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are generally healthy dogs and can live up to 16 or 17 years with proper care.
However, they do have a predisposition to several health issues that you should be aware of.
Hip dysplasia is one condition that affects Cardigan Welsh Corgis. It's a hereditary issue where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to pain and arthritis.
Mild cases can be managed with weight loss, pain medication, and joint supplements.
But in severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis.
Overweight dogs are more likely to develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing unnecessary pain and suffering.
Pet Ownership
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are family-oriented dogs that thrive on companionship and attention.
They need a varied daily exercise routine to stay happy and healthy. Plan on about 45 minutes of exercise throughout the day, which can include long hikes or strolls on the beach.
A perfect home for a Cardigan provides ample love, attention, and mental stimulation. They are intelligent dogs that need to be kept busy with activities and playtime.
Cardigans have low, sturdy builds and fluffy tails, making them a unique addition to any family. They also come equipped with large, upright ears that add to their charm.
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Daily walks are essential for Cardigan Welsh Corgis, and they love snuggling up with their owners whenever possible. They make excellent companions for families who can provide the attention and exercise they need.
Cardigans are adaptable to many lifestyles, but they require regular grooming as part of their high-maintenance routine. A well-kept Cardi is a happy dog that will reward you with love and loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Welsh and Cardigan Corgi?
Key difference: Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a docked tail, while Cardigan Welsh Corgis retain their natural tail. This distinctive feature is often the easiest way to tell these two breeds apart.
Why are Cardigan Corgis so rare?
Cardigan Corgis are a rare breed due to their failure to adapt from working dogs to popular family pets after their original purpose ended. This decline is largely attributed to their historical role as working animals in Britain, particularly among Welsh farmers.
Are Cardigan Corgis expensive?
Cardigan Corgis can cost between $500 and $3,000 when buying from a breeder. Adopting one from an animal shelter or rescue is often significantly less expensive.
What's the difference between a Cardigan Welsh Corgi and a Pembroke?
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are larger with heavier bone than Pembrokes, weighing up to 38 pounds compared to their 30-pound counterparts. The main physical difference between the two breeds lies in their tail and overall size.
Are Cardigan corgis good pets?
Yes, Cardigan Welsh corgis are friendly and trainable pets. They're a great choice for families or first-time dog owners due to their adaptable nature.
Sources
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America (CWCCA) (cardigancorgis.com)
- According to the CWCCA (cardigancorgis.com)
- according to the CWCCA (cardigancorgis.com)
- JSTOR (jstor.org)
- scholar (google.com)
- "Cardigan Welsh Corgi" (google.com)
- standard (fci.be)
- standard (thekennelclub.org.uk)
- "Health: IVDD – Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America" (cardigancorgis.com)
- "Welsh Corgi Cardigan Dog Breed - Facts and Traits | Hill's Pet" (hillspet.com)
- "Corgi" (dictionary.com)
- the original (cardigancorgis.com)
- "Corgis and the Queen: Celebrating the breed that the Queen made popular" (thekennelclub.org.uk)
- "Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Details" (akc.org)
- MyCorgi.com (mycorgi.com)
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Info – Pet Health Clinic (thepethealthclinic.com)
- American Kennel Club’s website (akc.org)
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi | Hudson Animal Hospital (hudsonanimalhospitalnyc.com)
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