The Cardigan Welsh Corgi Dog

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog originates from Cardingshire South Wales (Great Britain), dating back to the middle Ages.

This dog played many roles in previous centuries. In addition to being a family protector and hunter, it had a natural ability to drive cattle (as opposed to herding them). The droving ability was especially important in the days of free ranging herds. The low and powerful dog was quite adept at driving cattle by nipping at their heels while ducking any kicks aimed at them.

Until 1934, the Cardigan and the Pembroke Welsh Corgis were considered to be the same breed. Cross breeding has taken place in the past. The modern Cardigan Welsh Corgi remains a powerful speedy dog that is packed full of energy and endurance. However, today it is far more likely to be found inside a house or in a back yard as opposed to the open range herding cattle. It makes an excellent companion and is usually very good with children. It will get along quite well with other household pets. The Cardigan was introduced to North America in 1931, and was recognized by the AKC in 1935. For some reason, the Cardigan has never enjoyed the same popularity as the Pembroke.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi - China

Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Lucky

Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Pippin

Above pictures of China, Lucky and Pippin Courtesy of Dogwood Cove Corgis
www.dogwoodcovecorgis.com

The Cardigan Welsch Corgi Dog at a glance

Origin Great Britain dating back to around the Middle Ages

Original Use Drover

Use Today Companion, drover

Temperament It is a loyal, agile, tireless, and fun loving dog with tons of energy. It has a calm mannerism. Some bark a lot.

Acceptance of: Other Dogs - Usually not accepting

Other Pets - Average or above average

Strangers - Reserved
Children - Usually good with children

Watchdog Ability Excellent

Guard dog Ability Good

Ease of Training Good

Living Conditions Althought it can live outside in temperate or cool climates, the modern Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog is much happier to indoors, as long as exercise needs are met.

Exercise Like all members of the herding group, the Cardigan needs lots of regular exercise.

Coat Has a medium length coat that may shed a lot. The coat consists of a smooth outer coat plus a short softer undercoat.

Grooming It should be brushing once a week or more often, to keep shedding in check.

Colors The Cardican Welsh Corgi dog comes in a variety of colors.

Height and Weight Ideal weight is 25 to 38 pounds (11.5 to 17.25 kg) while the ideal height is 10.5 to 12.5 inches (26.5 to 31.75 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.

Life Expectancy 12 to 14 years.

Group The AKC places the Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog in the herding group.

Some Interesting Trivia

Several of the web pages that I visited as well as one or two books on the Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog make reference to it being known as the yard long dog. The original Cardigans were supposed to measure a Welsh yard from its nose to the tip of its tail. The web pages that I found making reference to the Welsh yard indicate that it is a little longer than an English yard, but do not say exactly what it is. One other source (not a dog web site) made reference to a welsh yard measuring 40 inches. What ever it measured in the past, it makes for interesting trivia, but is not really relvant when discussing the modern bread. The AKC, CKC, and ... all identify the current standard for the breed in terms of height, weight, coat, color, etc., but none of them make reference to its measured length.

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