The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a long, low-to-the-ground dog with a fox-like head and a full, bushy tail.

10.5-12.5 inches at the shoulder

25-38 pounds (males), 25-34 pounds (females)

Double coat, medium length, with a dense undercoat and a longer, harsher outercoat

Any shade of red, sable, brindle, black, or blue merle, typically with white markings

Long and bushy, unlike the docked tail of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Large and prominent, rounded at the tips

Long and low, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature, making them excellent family companions.

Deeply devoted to their families and form strong bonds.

Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.

Naturally watchful and make excellent watchdogs.

Can adapt to various living situations, provided they get enough exercise.

Enjoy playtime and interacting with their owners.

Though sometimes reserved with strangers, they are very loving with their families.

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with regular exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship.

Relatively healthy breed.

Can be stubborn at times.

The ideal owner for a Cardigan Welsh Corgi is someone who appreciates their intelligence and affectionate nature, and is committed to providing them with the exercise, training, and care they need to thrive.

Cardigan Welsh Corgis require regular grooming, a balanced diet, and a comfortable living environment suitable for their size and energy levels.

Brush their double coat weekly, and more frequently during shedding seasons (spring and fall).

Bathe only when necessary, usually every few months, or when they get particularly dirty.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Regular teeth brushing or dental chews are important for maintaining oral health.

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement, but require regular, moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Cardigans are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure a well-adjusted adult dog. Consistency is key.

Despite their short legs, Cardigans are active dogs that require daily exercise. Moderate walks, playtime in a securely fenced yard, and interactive games are sufficient. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep them engaged.

Expose your Cardigan to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate your Cardigan.

Establish clear rules and boundaries, and stick to them.

Provide puzzle toys and engaging activities to prevent boredom.

Be mindful of their herding instincts, especially with children and other pets. Redirect this behavior with training.

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic conditions.

Due to their long backs, Cardigans are susceptible to IVDD, a condition affecting the spinal discs.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A malformation of the hip joint that can cause pain and lameness.

A progressive disease of the spinal cord, leading to hind limb paralysis.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is one of the oldest British breeds, with a history believed to stretch back over 3,000 years. Descended from the Teckel family of dogs (which also includes Dachshunds), they were brought to Wales by Celtic tribes. Initially used as all-purpose farm dogs, Cardigans excelled at herding cattle and guarding livestock, their low stature allowing them to nip at heels while avoiding kicks. The breed remained relatively isolated until the 19th century. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi were considered one breed until 1934 when the UK Kennel Club recognized them separately. The American Kennel Club (AKC) followed suit in 1935.

Yes, Cardigans are generally good with children, especially when raised with them. However, their herding instincts may cause them to nip at heels, so supervision is important.

Yes, Cardigans have a double coat and shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during spring and fall.

The main differences are the tail (Cardigans have long tails, Pembrokes usually have docked tails), ear shape (Cardigans have rounded ears, Pembrokes have pointed ears), and bone structure (Cardigans are generally heavier-boned).

Cardigans need moderate daily exercise, such as walks, playtime, and interactive games.

Yes, Cardigans are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.

Yes, Cardigans can adapt to apartment living, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Cardigans can be prone to barking, especially when alerting to strangers or unusual sounds. Training can help manage excessive barking.

The average lifespan of a Cardigan Welsh Corgi is 12-15 years.

No, Cardigan Welsh Corgis are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat and shed moderately.

You can find Cardigan Welsh Corgis from reputable breeders or rescue organizations specializing in Corgis.