Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)

Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
Size: Medium
Other Names: Cardigan, Cardi, CWC, Yard-Long Dogs (obsolete)
Country of Origin: Wales
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Herding
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Herding
United Kennel Club (UKC): Herding Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Working Dogs
The Kennel Club (KC): Pastoral
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Herding
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Working Dogs

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a long, low dog, with upright ears, a fox-like appearance, and a long tail.  He is best known for his very short legs, and long body.

A long-backed herder who can share a house if given a job; a weather coat that sheds, a watchful bark, and more cattle drive than a still apartment wants.

One of the oldest herding breeds, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is one of two separate dog breeds, known as Welsh Corgis, that originated in Wales.  The name comes from his area of origin, Cardiganshire, Wales.  Cardigans are said to originate from the Teckel family of dogs, which also produced Dachshunds.  They were bred long and low to make sure that any kicks by cattle would travel safely over the dog without touching him.  His short legs may seen to be a disadvantage, but he can run and jump just as well as any other dog of comparable size.  Originally used only as a farm guardian, Cardigans eventually took on the roles of a cattle drover, and herder, among others.  They are still highly valued for their herding, working, and guarding skills, as well as their companionship.
Height
10½-12½ inches
Weight
Male: 30-38 pounds, Female: 25-34 pounds
Color
Any shade of red, sable, or brindle; black with or without tan brindle; or blue merle with or without tan or brindle points; rarely red merle; usually with white on the neck, chest, legs, muzzle, underneath, tip of the tail, and as a blaze on the head
Coat
Short or medium; hard-textured outer coat, with a good undercoat
Lifespan
12–15 years
Litter size
4–6 puppies

Temperament

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a highly intelligent, active, athletic dog, who has proven himself to be an excellent, devoted companion.  He is typically a "one-person" dog, who reserves his affection for a select few with whom he is familiar.  He tends to be wary of strangers, and can be an alert and responsible guardian.  He can happily live in an apartment, as long as he has access to open space.

Training

If socialized at a young age, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi can get along with other dogs and house pets.

Care and grooming

Welsh Corgis need daily physical and mental stimulation.  For their size, they need a surprising amount of exercise, which, due to their working heritage, is best met in open space.  Care should be taken to keep the Corgi from becoming overweight, as this could lead to related health problems.  They need to be brushed regularly, to reduce shedding.  Many believe the volume of shed fur can be significantly reduced by the addition of fish oil supplements containing omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.

Shedding

Moderate; heavier when the undercoat blows.

Health

Cardigan Welsh Corgis may develop intervertebral disc disease, progressive retinal atrophy, and hip dysplasia.  Keep them lean and limit jumping off furniture.

Crosses that include the Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)

These hybrid pages list this breed as a parent. Open a name to see the other contributing breed.

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