Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
Great Britain, Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 28–33 cm
- Weight
- 11–17 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Loyal
- Alert
- Intelligent
- Adaptable
- Watchful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a low-set herding dog from Wales, used to drive cattle by nipping at their heels. It has a long body, short legs, large upright ears and a long, fox-like tail. The medium-length double coat comes in various colours, often with white markings. It is generally larger and heavier-boned than the Pembroke.
Temperament
Loyal, alert and intelligent, usually devoted to family and watchful of strangers. It can be bold and a good watchdog, and may try to herd children or other pets.
Exercise
Needs a good daily walk plus play and training. It is surprisingly agile, and enjoys games, herding and agility.
Grooming
Double coat that sheds heavily at times; brush a couple of times a week, daily when moulting.
Care & wellbeing
Long back and short legs mean weight control matters, and avoid jumping from heights or too many stairs. Check ears and teeth.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 14 kg adult- Water
- 560 ml–840 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 810 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Welsh cattle herding dog with a long tail, thought to be one of the oldest British herding breeds. It drove cattle by nipping at their heels while staying low. It is loyal, adaptable and sturdy.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Back problems
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- DNA test for PRA
- Hip scores
Not every Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) get?
Adult Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)s typically stand about 28–33 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–17 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)s live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)s easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)s shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)s good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)s have?
The breed can be prone to degenerative myelopathy, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), back problems. Not every Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
- Internationally recognised
- 1963