Loyal and Affectionate

Welsh Corgis are known for their loyalty to their families and their affectionate, loving nature.

Great for Small Spaces

Despite their herding background, Corgis adapt well to apartment living due to their compact size and moderate exercise needs.

Highly Intelligent

Corgis are quick learners and excel in obedience training and canine sports like agility and herding.

Good with Children

Corgis are playful and tend to get along well with children, making them great family pets.

Prone to Shedding

Corgis have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during seasonal changes.

Can Be Stubborn

While intelligent, Corgis can be independent and sometimes stubborn, requiring firm and consistent training.

Prone to Back Problems

Due to their long backs and short legs, Corgis are at higher risk for back injuries, particularly intervertebral disc disease.

Strong Herding Instincts

Their natural herding tendencies may cause them to nip at heels, especially with small children or other pets.

Exercise Needs

Corgis are energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are necessary to prevent boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking.

Walks

One to two moderate walks per day, along with some playtime, are usually sufficient to meet their exercise needs. They also enjoy activities that challenge their intelligence, such as puzzle toys or basic herding tasks.

Training

Corgis are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility training. However, they can be independent and stubborn, so consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Early training is important to establish good behavior and manage their herding instincts.

Purchase Price

$3,000 - $5,500 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $500 - $700 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $700 - $1,000 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs.

Grooming

While they shed heavily, professional grooming is not typically required. Regular brushing and occasional baths can be managed at home. Costs may range from $200-500 AUD per year for basic grooming tools and/ or services.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $500 - $1,000 AUD. Due to their predisposition to back problems and obesity, ongoing vet check-ups, preventive care, and treatments for potential health issues could cost $400 - $800 AUD per year.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 12-15 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $20,000 - $35,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically stand 25-30 cm (10-12 inches) tall and weigh between 10-14 kg (22-30 lbs), with males generally being larger than females.

Coat

Corgis have a thick, weather-resistant double coat that sheds year-round. They are heavy shedders, particularly during seasonal changes, and require regular brushing.

Colour Options

Pembroke Welsh Corgis come in several colors, including red, sable, fawn, and black and tan, often with white markings on the chest, legs, and face.

Temperament

Welsh Corgis are intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. They are known for their lively personalities and enjoy being involved in family activities. Despite their small size, they are confident, bold, and alert, making them excellent watchdogs.

Good with Children

Corgis tend to be good with children, especially when raised with them. Their playful, protective nature makes them ideal for families, but supervision is recommended with very young children due to the Corgi’s tendency to herd and nip.

Socialisation

Early socialization is important for Corgis to ensure they are well-mannered around other people and pets. While they are generally friendly, proper socialization helps curb any excessive herding or barking tendencies.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Corgis are best suited to indoor living with access to outdoor spaces for play and exercise. They enjoy spending time outdoors but should not be left outside for long periods, as they thrive on human interaction and prefer to be part of family activities.

Apartment Living

Despite their high energy levels, Corgis can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their small size makes them manageable in smaller spaces.

Time Alone

Corgis do not do well when left alone for long periods and may develop separation anxiety or become destructive if bored. They are social dogs that enjoy being around their families, so they are best suited for homes where someone is present for much of the day or where they have other pets for companionship.

Climate Adaptability

Corgis have a thick double coat that helps protect them from cold weather, but they can overheat in warm climates. It is important to provide plenty of water, shade, and cool areas during hot weather, particularly during outdoor activities.

Common Health Issues

Welsh Corgis are prone to certain health conditions, particularly related to their unique body structure. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), degenerative myelopathy, and obesity. Regular vet check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding high-impact activities that could strain their backs are essential for their well-being.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to health issues like hip dysplasia and IVDD, it’s important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings for these conditions. Ethical breeding practices help ensure the well-being of the puppies and reduce the risk of hereditary health problems.

Guarding Ability

While not aggressive, Corgis are excellent watchdogs and will often bark to alert their owners of strangers or unusual activity. Their alertness and confidence make them good protectors despite their small size.

Affectionate Nature

Corgis are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families. They are known for their love of cuddling and often seek out attention from their owners.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Corgis are generally social and enjoy interacting with other dogs. However, their strong herding instincts may cause them to nip or chase other dogs, so supervision is recommended, particularly around smaller or more timid dogs.