Choosing a Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Dogs

The Cardigan Welsh corgi is still used to herd and work livestock. They can be an excellent pet as they are very smart and loyal.

History and Origin

The Cardigan Welsh corgi is considered one of the first breeds in the British Isles. In 1200 B.C. the Celts of central Europe traveled to south Wales, bringing their dogs. Many settled in an area eventually called Cardiganshire, from where the Cardigan received his name. The Cardigan Welsh corgi is thought to be descended from the same ancestor as the dachshund.

The meaning of the word corgi is often debated. For some, the word is Welsh for dwarf dog. Others feel that corgi is a derivation of cur, meaning working dog. Regardless of the origin of the name, the corgi is a small dog that excels in working with cattle.

The corgi was originally developed to help their owners with livestock. Unlike herding dogs, the corgi was used to drive cattle. Centuries ago, good grazing land was scarce and extensive fencing to confine livestock was not allowed. This meant that there was significant competition for land usage. If one landowner had good pastures, neighboring cattle could easily migrate and graze, taking this valuable resource. The job of the corgi was to nip at the heels of these cattle, driving them off the owner's land. Eventually, fencing was allowed and the usefulness of the corgi diminished. Thankfully, the corgi was so loved as a pet and guardian that the breed continued to flourish.

In the mid 19th century, crossbreeding between the Cardigan and Pembroke occurred, but in 1934, the two breeds were officially divided and recognized as separate. All crossbreeding stopped. The first corgi arrived in the United States in 1931 and the two breeds were accepted into the herding breed group of the American Kennel Club in 1935.

Appearance

The Cardigan corgi is a low set, long bodied sturdy dog. It has a tail unlike the Pembroke Corgi that has a very short or no tail at all. The ears are erect and rounded. The hair coat is double, dense and of medium length. The Cardigan comes in many different colors such as red, sable, brindle, blue merle and tri-colored.

Size

The Cardigan Welsh corgi stands about 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighs around 25 to 35 pounds.

Personality

Corgis are intelligent and loyal dogs with a strong herding instinct. Some can be possessive, which may result in aggressive tendencies in certain dogs.

Some dogs are great with kids and others can assert their possessive or bossy nature and have a tendency to nip. They are better with older kids (over 6 or 7 years).

Home & Family Relations

Corgis are devoted and protective, especially around children. The Cardigan may show herding instincts around children. The corgi will guard and protect children from anything the dog perceives as a threat.

Training

The corgi needs little training to herd and work with livestock. They are intelligent and excel at obedience training. As a working dog, they love having a job to do.

Special Concerns

Corgis should be socialized early in life. Natural herding instincts may cause problems as the dog may nip at your heels in an attempt to get you to go where the dog wants. The hair coat does not need special care and, overall, the dog is an excellent pet.