Corgi: the compact dog with short legs and a trunk that almost touches the ground
The Corgi is the dog commonly associated with the British royal family.
King George VI gave a specimen to his daughter Elizabeth, later to become Queen of England, who created the royal family herd, distinguished by the Windsor affix.
Corgis have since become by definition “the queen’s dogs.”
However, few people know that there are actually as many as two varieties of Corgi: the best known, the Welsh Corgi Pembroke, and the Welsh Corgi Cardigan.
Two varieties of Corgi
The two varieties both have Welsh origins and evolved in parallel, but despite some similarities, there are also obvious differences between them.
The Welsh Corgi Cardigan has ancient origins: it is believed to have been brought to the United Kingdom by Celtic migrants from the Central European region.
However, the native nature of the breed cannot be completely ruled out.
Pembroke corgis were introduced to the United Kingdom by Welsh colonists from the south in the 10th century and were used primarily as sheepdogs.
They were most likely quite different dogs from today’s dogs: historical references point to a short-legged dog employed for herding cattle in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
The recognition of race
In 1925 official recognition of both Cardigans and Pembrokes as a breed occurred however, variations in shape, size and temperament warranted a later distinction.
Specifically, it was the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom and theAmerican Kennel Club(AKC) that requested that the two Corgis be recognized as separate dog breeds.
The distinction between Corgi Cardigan and Corgi Pembroke as two different dog breeds has been enshrined since 1934.
Corgi physical appearance: similarities and differences
The two varieties have evolved in parallel, between similarities and differences.
Both small but strong, compact and muscular, Corgis have an elongated, low body with a trunk that almost touches the ground and very short legs.
Pembrokes, small and light, were preferred by nobles as pets, while Cardigans, more robust, were used to tend herds and flocks.
The Corgi Pembroke tends to be shorter than the Cardigan, ranging in height from 25 to 30 centimeters and with an average weight of 10 to 12 kilograms.
The coat is short, dense and weatherproof, with a variety of colors including red, black and tan.
The ears are pointed, the tail short and squat.
In contrast, the Welsh Corgi Cardigan is slightly larger and heavier, reaching a height of about 30-33 centimeters and a weight of 11-15 kilograms.
It has round ears and a tail that is often long.
The coat is also double and can have different colorations, including blue merle and brindle (tiger) hues.
Both types of Corgi share a lively and affectionate nature.
The character of Corgi dogs
They are known for their intelligence and curiosity and show strong attachment to their humans.
The Pembroke Corgi tends to be more energetic and jovial, often having an outgoing personality.
In addition, it is known for its natural inclination for play and companionship.
In contrast, the Cardigan may appear more reserved, but possesses an affectionate and protective nature characterized by strong family ties.
Corgi breed: an ideal dog for dynamic families
Having originally been bred for herding work, they are endowed with remarkable stamina and energy.
This means that they require regular physical and mental activities to stay healthy and happy.
Suitable for a variety of activities, Corgis can excel in dog sports such as agility, rally and flyball albeit with proper care.
They are ideal dogs for active families and those seeking a dynamic companion and are generally very compatible with children.
As small- to medium-sized dogs, they can be somewhat vulnerable to too much rough play, so it is critical to ALWAYS monitor interactions between children and dogs.
Corgi dog diseases to watch out for
Because of the breed’s unique physique, care must be taken to ensure that the Corgi does not suffer back trauma and does not jump up or down from high places (walls, sofas, beds).
For beds and sofas, ramps should be placed.
If you lift the dog, you must provide even support under the front and back legs.
They are hardy dogs but predisposed to certain diseases:
- degenerative myelopathy
- Spinal problems (herniated discs)
- hip dysplasia
- progressive retinal atrophy
- tendency toobesity, which aggravates bone and spinal problems, making proper weight management and regular veterinary checkups crucial.
To refer your Corgi dog for periodic check-ups and personalized feeding plans, request a consultation with the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
