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The Corgi

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Breed Traits and Characteristics

According to the American Kennel Club, here are some breed characteristic you can find in Corgis. 

 

  • Height

    10-12 inches

  • Weight

    Up to 20 pounds (male), up to 28 pounds (female)

  • Life Expectancy

    12-13 years

  • Coat Type/Length

    Double/Short

  • 100 Affectionate with Family
  • 60 Good with Young Children
  • 80 Good with Other Dogs
  • 80 Trainability Level
  • 80 Energy Level
  • 80 Barking Level
  • 80 Shedding Level
  • 20 Drooling Level

History

Some find it hard to believe that a dog the size of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was bred for herding cattle, but its deeply entrenched instincts that back centuries: it is believed that the cattle dogs that were brought to Wales by the Vikings in the 9th and 10th centuries are the true ancestors of the Corgi as we know it today. (It is also possible that they may have descended from a line of dogs that were brought to Wales in the 12th century by Flemish weavers.)

Corgis possess all the vital traits to be extremely efficient cattle dogs: tenacity, determination, and high intelligence. Both the Pembroke and its close cousin, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, descend from the line of northern spitz-type dogs. Initially recognized as one breed, the Kennel Club of the UK decided in 1934 to recognize the Pembroke and Cardigan separately. The American Kennel Club followed suit in the same year and in 1936, the Pembroke was first shown in the USA. The official AKC breed standard is maintained by the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is perhaps best known for being Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s preferred breed of dog. Queen Elizabeth II of England was given her first Corgi by her father, King George, in 1933, and the breed has been a fixture in her life ever since.

Corgi Personality & Temperament 

Pembroke Corgis are highly intelligent, outgoing, and friendly dogs. Strong and athletic, Corgis are happiest with moderate daily exercise – they especially love herding and chasing, the same activities they engage in as working dogs. Their pleasant disposition makes Corgis a great fit for families, and their protectiveness if they sense a threat to their family or social group makes the breed great watchdogs. Their determination can sometimes turn into a stubborn streak, however, making early, consistent training beneficial to avoid future behavioral issues.

Corgis have become more and more popular in the USA, and for good reason: they are great family dogs, with keen intelligence that means they take to training well. This same intelligence can be a challenge for their owners, however, as Corgis do not relinquish leadership easily – after all, the same determination, tenacity, and independence that serve them well as herding dogs can also make them a challenge to handle.

If you are thinking of purchasing a Corgi, it is especially important to source from an ethical, responsible breeder who is breeding for not only looks, but health and temperament as well. Rescues are also great options for prospective Corgi owners. Contact your local Bark Busters trainer today to learn about great breeders and rescue organizations near you!

Corgi Physical Characteristics

Muscular, long, and low-set, Pembroke Corgis differ from their cousin, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, in several respects: Pembrokes typically have docked tails compared to long tails for Cardigans (though some countries have banned the practice, making the difference more difficult to spot); additionally, the Cardigan has a slightly larger head and comes in different colors than its Pembroke counterpart.

Class & Color

Class

  • Herding Class

Color:

  • Red
  • Fawn
  • Sable
  • Brack and Tan
  • (All colors may be with or without white markings)

Size

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small but powerful dogs with surprising agility given their size and short legs.

  • Small
  • Height: Height: 10-12 inches
  • Weight: up to 30 pounds (male); up to 28 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy

Pembroke Corgis maintain good genetic health, especially when purchased from responsible breeders, though some can suffer from inherited conditions like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other rare conditions.

  • Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically live between 12 and 13 years.

Corgi Common Behavioral Issues

The common issues with Corgis are normally barking, chasing, leash-pulling and sibling rivalry. They can be bossy with other dogs, with a desire to rule the roost. Early training makes a real difference when it comes to managing the strong herding instincts possessed by Corgis, which may transfer to everything they do. Good management is especially important around young children, who may be nipped during overexuberant play. The Corgi is not malicious, but it can get itself into trouble if left on its own to run the show.

If you are struggling with your Corgi’s behavioral issues, contact your local Bark Busters trainer. Our trainers are available both in person and through live interactive virtual sessions to help establish a pattern of consistency, resolve any and all issues, and help you nurture a relationship with your Corgi built on mutual understanding, trust, respect, and love.

Corgis have never been known to walk away from a fight, but the generally won't start one. It is important to socialize them properly from an early age to avoid behavioral issues.

Aggression is not normally an issue with Corgis, though they can become leash-reactive if allowed to lead on walks. Training can help curb their potential to nip at heels if they get excited – call your local Bark Busters trainer to learn more.

Prevention is far more preferable to a cure – early basic obedience training is absolutely vital to ensuring your Corgi understands and follows your rules.

All dogs need a special place to call their own. By selecting a place for yours to eat and sleep away from high traffic areas of your home, you can set good habits early in its life.

We are standing by to help you develop a consistent, compassionate approach to good behavior for your Corgi. Learn more about our services and schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with one of our trainers today!

Connect with Us!

Need help training your Corgi? Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

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Corgi Health

Health

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally healthy, though some may inherit hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, or Von Willebrand Disease.

Corgis need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Consider walks or jogs, but be mindful of their short legs, which can hinder their ability to keep up at faster speeds.

Corgis are very intelligent and need mental stimulation. Consider a puzzle or chew toy that stimulates a dog’s natural desire to chew.

Corgis benefit from structure and direction, including proper socialization from a young age with people and low-energy dogs.

Grooming

Corgis possess a weatherproof short undercoat with a longer, coarser outer coat of varying length. Pembrokes benefit from a once-daily brushing with a comb and slicker brush to minimize their tendency to shed, which increases in spring and early summer. The American Kennel Club also recommends occasional baths to loosen dead hairs (though Corgis should be completely dry before brushing), regular nail trimmings, and routine ear checks.

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Hear from Bark Busters Clients Who Have a Corgi

Dan is a lifesaver! Zoe is a 5 year old strong willed Corgi who constantly was barking, pulling, jumping and overall not listening. After the first lesson with Dan, my boyfriend and I saw a major improvement with how she was walking and she was starting to understand that she was no longer in charge. After our second lesson with Dan, my boyfriend and I saw a new well - behaved Corgi. She understands how to walk with us, she grasps that certain areas of the house are not her space but my boyfriend's and mine, and she is understanding the commands when we tell her not to bark. I did not think it was possible to see her improve and the fact that she did and turned the corner so quickly was very impressive! This is all thanks to Dan!
I had purchased a new Corgi puppy last year and had some big issues with her that I could not deal with on my own. My vet recommended Bark Busters and I could not be more grateful for how much their training helped me to be able to keep my dog. Their training is kind and helpful...I would highly recommend this company! - (Google Review)
Steve is great! He is wise, professional, honest, and great at what he does. It's only been a few days since our first session and have seen a huge improvement with our 2.5-year-old corgi, Herbie. His biggest problem behaviors (barking non-stop when we have guests and jumping up to steal food) have subsided and we're looking forward to seeing more improvements as we continue with training.
Deb from Bark Busters totally changed my relationship with my dogs. I have two dogs, one is 4 years old hound mix and the other is 7 months old corgi mix. There has been some sibling rivalry, some aggressive behavior around feeding time (coming from the corgi towards the hound), and the typical barking, jumping, etc. I took a dog training course with the hound but when I tried training the corgi he wouldn't listen, just wanted the treat. Deb came to our home and totally flipped the script on how to handle my dogs. It's only been one week and we still have some work to do in certain areas but I noticed my dogs are a lot more relaxed and when your dog sitter texts you saying "Holy *beep*! What did you guys do? They didn't jump on me when I came into the house!" I find that a great success and the steps to the right direction! Thank you, Deb!
John has been great and we are very excited to see the results. My dogs are already taking direction from my family and myself.
John is patient, kind and understanding. He loves dogs and people! We look forward to the future of the dogs!
Excellent advice and practical application.
Bark Busters has completely changed both my life and my dog’s! I was close to re-homing my third dog because of his behavior—he was resource guarding and attacking the other dogs when I was around.
After starting training with Karen and learning the Bark Busters methods, everything turned around. He is now the best-behaved of all my dogs, and our relationship has never been stronger.
I’m so grateful for this program
and highly recommend it to anyone struggling with their dog’s behavior or just want to teach your dog important training! Comes with all the tools and information needed and easy to implement into my day to day.
The session today was extremly helpful and just as much infomative. In this session the results were amazing. The info given will also help us keep up the work after this. I would recommend this service to all.
John is kind and super helpful, flexible, and experienced. We look forward to continuing our work with him.
Aurora already seems to understand the changes we have practiced. I feel confident and set up well with the correct tools. My family already looks more at ease with Aurora and training. Thank you!
Dramatic change in our dog in just one session! Stopped lunging on the leash immediately. We look forward to a more calm family situation.
Trainer was excellent communicator, explained everything in detail and my dog learned a lot along with me.
Covered a wide range of issues we were having with our puppy. Training is very specific and great. John is an outstanding trainer of the owner which is more important.
Excellent learning session and excellent trainer!
John was great! Very professional.
I saw an 80% improvement in my dogs behavior today and I am pleased with his behavior.
Training was very informative and taught me how to communicate with our dog. Stella was very responsive to the training.
After a 3 hr visit, I saw a noticeable difference.
John is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I am amazed at how fast my dog immediately took to the few small corrections. I look forward to seeing success and being able to enjoy Zion. Thank you!
Very informative. John was patient and friendly. I felt comfortable with him and he is very knowledgeable.
Rowdy stopped barking and easily went into his crate.
Scott was amazing. We knew we were the problem and needed the tools to train our dogs. He came in and gave us the confidence and the tools to be the decision makers in our home and the leaders of the pack. Using the tools given during the training have already caused a noticeable difference in our dogs behavior.
Mike was excellent! Our Pomeranian adjusted quick and the tips from Mike were great. He will give pet owners all the possible tools and it’s up to the pet owner to execute. Highly recommend!
Orlando showed me the best corrections with great results. Love introducing the neighbors in training!
Working with Bark Busters has been an absolutely top-notch experience from start to finish. Scheduling was easy and they took the time to truly understand our needs before we even began. When James arrived for our first session, he came fully prepared and immediately demonstrated a clear understanding of the behaviors we wanted to improve. The trainer's (James and Michelle) are also the owners of the company and it shows!

Within the first 30 minutes, James gave us practical tools to address barking and over-excitement when visitors come over. Both of our dogs needed different types of support, and he was able to tailor the training in a way that never felt overwhelming. We noticed improvements after every single session.

Our dog Biscuit, who used to bark excessively and pull whenever we passed people or other dogs, can now walk calmly past them without reacting. This alone has made our daily walks so much easier and so much more enjoyable.

Hands down, this has been the best investment we’ve made for our dogs. We can’t say enough good things about James and Michelle and have already recommended Bark Busters to several friends. Highly, highly recommend!
A Training Program That Truly Follows the Dog - Exceptional Transferable Guarantee!
My husband Jim and I cannot say enough wonderful things about Bark Busters! We fostered Willow, a Labradoodle, intending to find him a forever home, but we completely "failed" at fostering and fell in love with him. Willow's previous owner had invested in Bark Busters Gold Service training before we adopted him.
As a disabled Veteran, Jim has found Willow to be an incredible mental health support, and we wanted to ensure we continued his training properly.

A Guarantee That Truly Puts Dogs First:
What truly sets Bark Busters apart is their remarkable Life of Dog Support Guarantee, which is transferable when a dog is re-homed! For a one-time transfer fee of $300, we gained access to professional training support for Willow's entire life - no additional charges, regardless of what behavioral issues arise.
This transferable guarantee demonstrates Bark Busters' genuine commitment to the dogs they train, not just their clients. They understand dogs may change homes and built a system ensuring those dogs receive lifelong support. This is virtually unheard of in the dog training industry!

Seamless Support:
We contacted Bark Busters to learn about Willow's training, and they made the transfer process incredibly smooth. Their focus was clearly on Willow's wellbeing and ensuring continuity in his care. They taught us the Bark Busters method - natural dog communication using body language and voice control that Willow already understood. No treats, no harsh corrections, no complicated equipment.

The Results:
Thanks to their transferable guarantee and guidance, we've maintained Willow's excellent behavior and strengthened our bond tremendously. The relationship between Jim and Willow has flourished, making an incredible difference in Jim's daily life and wellbeing.

Lifetime Peace of Mind:
We can contact our certified trainer anytime new issues arise - for Willow's entire life. As he grows and faces new challenges, we have peace of mind knowing professional help is available. Even if we relocate, the guarantee moves with us!

Our Recommendation:
If you're struggling with dog behavior issues, we wholeheartedly recommend Bark Busters. They work with any breed, age, and issue. Their trainers are knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely invested in helping families.
Most impressive: their Life of Dog Support Guarantee is transferable when a dog finds a new home. That forward-thinking policy shows incredible integrity and true commitment to every dog they train. It's a game-changer for rescue or adopted dogs.
Willow is a well-behaved, happy companion, and thanks to Bark Busters' transferable lifetime guarantee, we have confidence and support to continue his success. We're so grateful for their innovative approach ensuring every dog receives lifelong support, regardless of circumstances!

- Jim & Tammy
Proud parents of Willow the Labradoodle 🐾
Sharon was truly a dog whisperer. She gave clear instructions to my elderly parent and the puppy has responded beautifully! After just one visit, we had so much more control even though he is a medium/large dog. Less pulling, jumping up on people, counter, surfing, and attention demanding. Then, when we needed some reminders and reinforcement, Sharon responded promptly and came right back to fill in the blanks that we had forgotten. I would highly recommend Sharon and Bark Busters!

Bring Out the Best in Your Corgi: Submit Our Form to Learn How Expert Training Makes a Difference!

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