Cardigan Welsh Corgis

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“The handsome but hard-as-nails Cardigan Welsh Corgi was named for the medieval

kingdom of Cardiganshire, Wales, and is the older of the AKC's two corgi breeds. In fact,

they're among the oldest of all British breeds. The word 'corgi,' originally 'kergie,' is ancient

Celtic for 'dog,' and historians surmise that ancient corgis were brought from Central

Europe to Wales by the Celts during their mass migrations to Britain some 3,000 years

ago. We can say with some certainty, however, that corgis were driving Welsh herds 1,000

years ago. 

Cardigans are built low to the ground to best nip at the heels of cattle and avoid being

kicked. (Dogs who drive herds to pasture or market in this heel-nipping style are called

heelers.) The adaptable Cardigan did double duty on long cattle drives, moving the herd by

day and serving as a flock guardian at night. During the breed's long history, Cardigans

have at various times worked as an all-around farm dog, hunting partner, family protector,

and athlete. Cardigans were long associated with Britain's crofters (tenant farmers) who

depended on their dogs to help scratch a meager living out of the pastureland permitted

them by the crown.

The first pair of breeding Cardigans arrived in the United States in June 1931. The AKC

granted full recognition to the breed four years later.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a masterpiece of the breeder's art: Every aspect of its

makeup is perfectly suited to moving cattle, and yet it is so congenial and sweet-faced that

it would be a cherished companion even if it never did a day's work. Long, low-set dogs

with sturdy bone, short legs, and a deep chest, Cardigans are powerful workers of

deceptive speed and grace. Cardis can weigh anywhere from 25 to 34 pounds, with

females at the lower end of the scale. They come in several coat colors, from red to the

popular blue-merle pattern. The quickest way to distinguish Cardis from their cousins,

Pembroke Corgis, is to check out the hindquarters: Cardigans Welsh Corgis have tails;

Pembroke’s do not. Cardis are trainable, faithful, and vigilant guardians with a 'big dog'

bark. Well-socialized Cardis are especially fond of kids and agreeable with other pets.

These athletic, rugged herders have a love for the outdoors, and they thrive on mental

stimulation and physical activity.

The Cardigan is noted for being a very adaptable dog. If you want to hike and go on

adventures, they are all for that. Or if you want to watch TV and eat popcorn, no problem,

'the Cardigan is there for you! Cardigans thrive on regular socialization, so going for walks

in the neighborhood is important for many reasons. It provides fun for both you and the

dog, as well as much-needed exercise. When your Cardigan unexpectedly starts to do

'power runs' through the house and over the couch, it is his way of saying, "Hey, mom, I

really need to burn off some fun 'let's go play ball!" -Source American Kennel Club

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

10.5-12.5 inches

WEIGHT

30-38 pounds (male)

25-34 pounds (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

12-15 years