The Corgis: A Comprehensive Guide to Ownership

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Posted Nov 3, 2024

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High angle of cute fluffy Welsh Corgi sitting near legs with tattoos of female owner
Credit: pexels.com, High angle of cute fluffy Welsh Corgi sitting near legs with tattoos of female owner

Corgis are a beloved breed, but they do require regular exercise to stay healthy. According to the article, Corgis need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to maintain their physical and mental well-being.

Their short stature can make them prone to obesity, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they're getting enough physical activity. With proper care, Corgis can live up to 12-14 years.

Their intelligence and trainability make them a popular choice as working dogs, but they can be stubborn at times. Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to developing good behavior in Corgis.

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Care and Maintenance

Pembroke Welsh Corgis need plenty of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. They're surprisingly fast and were bred to be herding dogs, so don't be surprised if they zoom around the yard.

They may have short legs, but they're not built for jumping onto high surfaces - fractures are common, so it's best to keep them on the ground. With a little creativity, you can still give them the physical stimulation they need, even in an apartment.

Regular brushing and combing of their plush double coat will keep them looking their best. This is a low-maintenance task that's essential for their overall health and appearance.

Additional reading: Why Are Corgis so Popular

Size

Brown and White Corgi Puppy Lying on Brown Textile
Credit: pexels.com, Brown and White Corgi Puppy Lying on Brown Textile

Size is an important consideration when caring for a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. They are relatively small dogs, standing between 10 and 12 inches tall at the shoulders.

This compact size makes them a great fit for apartment living or small backyards. However, their weight is still a consideration, and they should not weigh more than 30 pounds.

Their small stature means they can be prone to back problems if they get too heavy, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they get regular exercise.

How to Care

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are relatively active dogs and need around an hour of daily exercise and play. They love to go on long walks or jogs, but their short legs won't keep up with runners or bicyclists.

To keep their coat healthy and shiny, you should brush it with a slicker brush daily to eliminate loose hair. This will keep the hair on your furniture to a minimum.

A Brown Corgi Dog on the Sand
Credit: pexels.com, A Brown Corgi Dog on the Sand

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are prone to fractures due to their short legs and long backs, so they shouldn't be expected to hop up on or down from the couch or any other modest height.

They make fine apartment dogs as long as they get the physical stimulation they need, and can adapt quite easily to living in the country or the city. They are very people-oriented, and need to be a part of the family at all times.

To keep your Pem in good shape, measure his food and feed him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. If you're unsure whether he's overweight, give him the eye test and the hands-on test.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are heavy shedders, so you'll need to brush their coat with a slicker brush daily, and incorporate a rake to strip their undercoat during shedding season.

If this caught your attention, see: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Health and Longevity

The corgis' lifespan is a significant aspect of their overall health and well-being. The average life span of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 12 to 15 years.

Corgis are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Their life expectancy is a good indicator of their overall health.

With proper care and attention, many corgis can live well into their teens.

Life Span

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Lying on the Sand Under White Cloud Blue Sky
Credit: pexels.com, Pembroke Welsh Corgi Lying on the Sand Under White Cloud Blue Sky

The average life span of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 12 to 15 years. This breed's relatively long life span is a testament to their robust health and well-being.

Proper care and attention can help your Pembroke Welsh Corgi live a long and happy life. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining their overall health.

The average life span of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 12 to 15 years, making them a long-term companion for many families.

Recommended read: How Long Do Corgis Live for

Health

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for longevity. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent chronic diseases.

Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support immune function. Aim for at least 5 servings a day to reap the benefits.

Adequate sleep is also vital for overall health. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night to feel rested and refreshed.

Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

Training and Behavior

Credit: youtube.com, How to Train the Perfect Corgi - Three Simple Steps

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are easy to train, learning quickly and retaining their lessons with enthusiasm.

They are sensitive dogs, so it's essential to use positive, reward-based training methods to bring out the best in them.

With their high intelligence and eager-to-please nature, Pembrokes take to training well and can excel in agility courses and show competitions.

However, be aware that they can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are key when teaching them new skills.

Early socialization is crucial for Pembrokes, as it helps them gain confidence in different situations and become well-rounded dogs.

Pembrokes are naturally wary of strangers and can be territorial, so socialization from puppyhood is essential to help them become comfortable around new people and environments.

Food is a great motivator for Pembrokes, but be cautious not to overfeed them, as they can become obese if their food intake isn't moderated.

With proper training and socialization, Pembrokes can make fantastic watchdogs, quickly alerting their owners to potential threats.

Getting Started

Credit: youtube.com, EVERYTHING You Need to Know About The CORGI

You need to know how to properly care for your pup, including learning how to groom them.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

You'll want to brush your Corgi's coat at least a few times a week, paying extra attention to areas where matting is most likely to occur.

Getting Started in Dog Sports

Getting started in dog sports can be a thrilling experience, and it's never too early to begin. You can start by learning about the basics of dog sports through an "Intro to Dog Sports" course.

If you're interested in competing with a mixed-breed dog, you can enroll them as a "Canine Partner" and explore the possibilities. Titles and abbreviations may seem daunting at first, but understanding them is crucial for navigating the world of dog sports.

Let's take a look at some of the dog sports options available. Here are some popular dog sports and their corresponding abbreviations:

With so many options, it can be tough to decide which sport is right for you and your dog. Consider their breed, age, and energy level when choosing a dog sport to participate in.

Owning Essentials

A Corgi Dog on a Leash
Credit: pexels.com, A Corgi Dog on a Leash

Owning a Pembroke Welsh Corgi requires proper care, including learning how to groom them.

You'll need to know what to feed them, as they have specific dietary needs.

Grooming is an essential part of caring for a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, as they have a thick coat that needs regular maintenance.

Princess Elizabeth received her first Pembroke Corgi, Susan, as an 18th birthday gift in 1944.

Susan lived a long and happy life, serving as a constant companion to Elizabeth for many years.

It's essential to provide regular veterinary check-ups to ensure your Pembroke Welsh Corgi stays healthy and happy.

As seen with Susan, who even accompanied Elizabeth and Philip on their honeymoon, Pembroke Welsh Corgis can be wonderful travel companions.

Check this out: Pembroke Corgi Cardigan

Rescue Groups

Getting started with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. If your first impulse is to Google 'Corgi Puppies for sale near me,' you may want to begin your search with 'Corgi rescues near me,' as there are many Pembrokes in need of adoption and/or fostering.

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Credit: youtube.com, How to Start An Animal Rescue Nonprofit (featuring @SavingGraceNC!)

Many Pembrokes are purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. This can lead to a lifetime of love and companionship, but also potential problems and heartbreak.

If you don't see a rescue listed for your area, contact the national breed club or a local breed club and they can point you toward a Pembroke rescue.

There are many rescues that we have not listed, so don't be discouraged if you can't find one right away.

Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.