Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi, closely related to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, probably shares the same ancestry, one which goes back to a Swedish herding dog, the Vallhund. Vallhunds arriving in Wales in the 9th century with the Vikings were crossed with local herding dogs, and two strains developed: the Cardigan and the Pembroke. Unlike the Pembroke, the Cardigan sports rounded ears, an undocked tail, and it is larger and longer-bodied than its cousin. The breed was excellent at droving and guarding herds and also made a good family companion. The breed did not make its debut in the world of dog shows until the 1920's. Although the breed is as likable as the Pembroke, it is not as popular. It adapts well to city life, provided it has plenty of exercise.

Height: 12" (30.5cm)

Weight: 35 - 38 lbs (15.6 - 15.6 kg) for dogs, 30 - 35 lbs (13.4 - 13.4 kg) for bitches

Coat Type: The hard coat is weather-resistant; a short to medium-length outer coat covers a dense undercoat. Any color is permissible, and white markings are acceptable. Regular brushing is all that is required.

Temperament: The breed is intelligent, good-natured, hard-working and alert. It is an easy breed to train.

Special Interest: Although the origin of the word "corgi" is not a definitive one, most researchers would suggest that it is the combination of two Welsh words: "cor" meaning dwarf, and "gi" meaning dog.

Classifications:
AKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
CKC: Group 7 - Herding Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
FCI: Group 1
ANKC: Group 5 - Working Dogs