Pet Health And Care >> Dog Breed >> Corgi

Corgi - Information on the Breed, Temperament and Cardigan Corgi Dogs

The Corgi breed history goes back centuries and is difficult to authenticate.

There is some mention of a Welsh cattle dog in a manuscript of the 11th century. However it is not certain if it refers to the corgi or one if its ancestors. The corgi is a herding dog that has its origins in Wales. The Pembroke Welsh corgi and the Cardigan Welsh corgi are the two breeds that are recognized.

Here is some more corgi dog information.

Corgi Dog Information

Corgi dogs are known to be healthy dogs and usually live well into the early and middle teens. There are, however, some genetic diseases that they are prone to. Corgis are largely used for herding where they nip at the heels and carry out their duties. Since they have a low stature they can protect themselves from getting kicked.

Corgis have a different way of managing livestock. Other breeds tend to gather livestock by running around the cattle. But corgis nip at the heels of the cattle and drive the livestock forward, thus working from behind. In rare cases, if the cattle turn around and start charging, corgis bite at their noses and make them rejoin the group. Cattle herding is the specialty of corgis, but they are also used for herding sheep and ponies. In some cases, they are also used to herd geese. Corgis were also used to watch over children and made loving, loyal pets. They are alert dogs and are known for their confident and pleasant temperament. They are also fun loving dogs and hence make wonderful family companions.

Cardigan Corgi Dogs

Cardigan corgi dogs have a tail, while the Pembrokes do not. This is the only obvious difference between the two types of breeds. However upon closer examination, more differences will be visible such as variance in body length, size and bone structure. The Cardigan dog breed tends to be stronger and is less prone to hereditary health issues. Pembroke Welsh corgis are at risk for conditions such as canine hip dysplasia, epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease and progressive retinal atrophy. They are known to live up to 12 to 15 years while Cardigan Welsh corgis usually live up to 12 to 14 years. Corgis are often seen as participants in herding, agility, tracking and obedience events. Corgis tend to shed a great deal and hence require regular grooming. Their protective instincts may sometimes lead them to bark at even neighbors. Proper training is necessary to guide their behavior.

Submitted on February 2, 2012