Let’s meet the Charismatic Cardigan Welsh Corgi! This adorable breed is known for being adaptable, athletic, and tough. Originally bred for work in the hills of Wales, their deep chest and short legs make them surprisingly speedy. They have a long history, with ancestors dating back thousands of years. Cardigans were used to control livestock and even had to dodge kicks from cattle due to their short stature. Today, they still enjoy staying active and excel in dog sports like obedience and herding. They adapt well to urban settings and apartment living as long as they get regular exercise. Cardigans are known for being reserved with strangers but are great watchdogs at home. So, if you’re looking for a charming and energetic companion, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi might just be the perfect breed for you!
Looking back
Ancestors of the Cardigan migrated to Wales with Celt warriors thousands of years ago. They were brought to Wales because they were needed to help control livestock. These dogs had to be strong in both temperament and physicality. They played a crucial role in moving the owner’s cattle to grazing land and keeping trespassing cattle off the owner’s property. In addition to their herding duties, Cardigans were also used for companionship, general farm work, protection, and vermin hunting.
One interesting thing about Cardigans is their dwarfism, which is called chondrodysplasia. This is a genetic mutation that led to their short legs. However, their short legs turned out to be an asset for herding. Their low height allowed them to dodge and avoid cattle kicks, keeping them safe while they worked.
Still busy today
Even though not many Cardigans are employed in moving livestock nowadays, they still thrive keeping busy. They are intelligent and biddable, which means they are easy to train, although sometimes they can be independent thinkers. Cardigans excel in dog sports such as obedience, tracking, herding, rally, agility, and barn hunt. These activities test their agility, intelligence, and problem-solving skills.
At home, Cardigans need daily walks, focused training sessions, and activities like ball chasing to keep them healthy and satisfied. They adapt well to urban settings and apartment living as long as they receive regular exercise.
Cardigans are known for their reserve with strangers outside the home. However, around their own property, they enthusiastically embrace their role as watchdogs. They are always on high alert and tend to bark a lot to let their owners know if something is amiss.
It’s important to note that Cardigans generally get along well with animals in their own household. However, they may try to push around unfamiliar animals, as their ancestors were specifically trained to chase stray animals off the property. Herding breeds, including Cardigans, tend to have a bossy nature.
Isn’t a corgi a corgi?
Despite their name similarities and physical similarities, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are distinct breeds with their own unique histories and ancestors. Both breeds have a background of working with farmers to lead cattle to grazing land and guard the barnyard. However, Cardigans are about two thousand years older and were developed in the rocky terrain of Cardiganshire in southwest Wales, while Pembrokes were developed in the flatter terrain of Pembrokeshire in southern Wales.
One easy way to tell the difference between a Cardigan and a Pembroke is by looking at their tails. Cardigans have a long, foxlike tail, while Pembrokes have tails that are docked close to their bodies.
Cardigan extras
Here are some additional facts about Cardigans:
- Weight: Cardigan males typically weigh between 30-38 pounds, while females usually weigh between 25-34 pounds.
- Life span: On average, Cardigans live for 12 to 15 years.
- Coat: Cardigans have a double coat. The outer hairs have a slightly harsh texture, while the undercoat is short, soft, and thick. This combination helps to protect them from the elements.
- Color: Cardigans come in a variety of colors, including red, sable, brindle, black, and blue merle.
- Grooming: Cardigans are considered easy to groom and generally only require weekly brushing to keep their coat looking its best.
- Shedding: Cardigans do shed, especially seasonally. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding.
- Best for: Cardigans are best suited for active singles and families who can provide them with plenty of physical and mental exercise.
- Accurate name: The word “Corgi” loosely translates to “dwarf dog” in Welsh. This accurately describes the Cardigan’s short stature.
- AKC popularity rank: The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is currently ranked as the 66th most popular breed by the American Kennel Club.
- Equipment: Cardigans are not built for strong or prolonged swimming, so it’s a good idea to get them a life jacket if they’ll be around water. Some Cardigans also benefit from using portable stairs to help them climb onto furniture.
- Possible health issues: Cardigans may be prone to degenerative myelopathy, hip and elbow dysplasia, and canine intervertebral disc disease. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help manage these potential health concerns.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a fascinating and charismatic breed with a rich history and a range of characteristics that make them a unique and beloved companion for many families. Their adaptability, intelligence, and hardworking nature continue to shine through in their modern-day roles as family pets and competitors in various dog sports.
