Cardigan Welsh corgis are thought to have been brought to Wales approximately 3000 years ago. They were prized by local farmers where they helped drive cattle to market, chased off predators and trespassing herds, hunted vermin, babysat youngsters, and were cherished members of the family. They are the older of the two unrelated recognized corgi breeds and descended from the teckel family of dogs.  

​

Cardigans always have a tail and come in a variety of recognized colours including black and white with either brindle or tan points (tri), brindle, red, sable, and blue merle.  According to the American Kennel Club they should be low set with moderately heavy bone and deep chest. Overall silhouette: long in proportion to height, culminating in a low tail set and fox like brush. General impression: a handsome powerful small dog, capable of both speed and endurance, intelligent, sturdily built but not course. Overall balance is more important than absolute size.

​

The average lifespan of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is 12-15 years. They are long bodied, short dogs. Extra care needs to be taken to ensure they do not launch off high pieces of furniture, and learn to use stairs carefully, particularly when going down. Cardigans have functional double-coats that will shed. Regular grooming and optimal diet helps manage it. 

Cardigans often enjoy the company of children, other dogs and family pets; are adaptable, have a great sense of humour and form deep bonds with their family. They do have watch dog tendencies and may bark often if not trained otherwise. Cardigans are very intelligent and learn quickly. Without training, they will happily take over the household. They excel at many dog sports, and love to do just about anything with their families. 

 

Links:

Canadian Cardigan Corgi Club

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club of America

The Canine Health Information Center | OFA

CKC | Purebred Puppies, Dog Competitions, Show Dog Events | CKC

American Kennel Club​

​

​

​

​