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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!
The training session was so helpful and made so much sense. John is an amazing behavioral trainer and so very knowledgeable. We felt heard and our issues were completely addressed.
John was great! It was a very productive session.
John is amazing!
Our experience was so helpful - I feel like we gained so many new skills to resolve the issues with our dogs, the dynamics, and establish leadership in a confident way. I feel hopeful and see the path forward which feels so good to say after living in such stress for 2 years.
Everything I had problems with was addressed. Time spent working with Bruno was great!
John had a wealth of knowledge for us. We saw an improvement on the first night of training. We are so looking forward to well-behaved dogs.
It was a productive traning session. We learned leash training setting boundaries and overall leadership. Orlando was a amazing trainer and was able to answer any questions we had. We are very happy with our session.
Orlando was amazing and I was well informed on how to train puppies without using force. After the training I feel confident to keep my puppies in my home.
Helped make sure the meeting between Bella & Mr. Tiny would be peaceful and both can co-habitate peacefully.
Orlando was Amazing! Honest & worked hard to train my dog quickly!
Michael came to help with my 10 month old Australian Shepherd, who is mostly blind and hard of hearing, and my 6 year old Papillon/Springer mix. On day one Michael took the time to listen to all my concerns and carefully explain how to help and I saw an immediate drastic change, especially in my 10mo who was the main concern. I am blown away and so grateful for the help.
I have a beautiful and very sweet dog that I love dearly who is great with people and most dogs but literally wants to eat small dogs. I called Bark Busters desperate after an incident that ended in my husband getting bit pulling my dog off a small dog. Michael came into our home and spent the time listening to us and observing. He gave us tools to regain the control over our animals and taught us how to read body language in the dogs to be able to get the dog back into a “green” Zone and avoid “red” zone situations. We may never be able to fully trust our dog around other small dogs but we are very aware and using Bark Busters techniques to keep control over our giant breed dogs. I’m so happy and feel this was money well spent. Thank you so much!!!
Both my husband & I have enjoyed working with James!! He’ is truly a dog “whisperer”! Although, we’ve had many dogs in our life, we found ourselves struggling with a young lively pup. He was reassuring, patient and always positive. We definitely benefited from his innumerable advice. Now after almost a year, we’ve gained a handle on our precious pup, Etta! She’s much more disciplined and delightful because of his guidance! We most wholeheartedly recommend Bark Busters!!
Andy took our family from a place of nervous hope (having adopted a young pitbull from the local SPCA) to confident pride in our dog's ability to learn and improve. After the very first session, we felt we had a better handle on things. Andy has a natural ability to teach. In our case, his audience ranged from an 11 to 82 years old and we ALL walked away with the same impression: we understood better how dogs think, and how to can use that understanding to improve behavior. We have worked with professional dog trainers in the past (with previous family dogs) but have never felt as educated, empowered and joyfully optimistic as we did after our time with Andy. He truly is gifted at what he does!
Susan has been fantastic. We’ve only been working with her for about 2 weeks and already there is significant improvement in my dog’s reactivity. My dog would pull on the leash and bark/lunge at people, other dogs and bikes. Susan is knowledgeable, patient and results oriented. The training exercises are simple and practical. I’d highly recommend!
If you really want your dog's behavior to change rather than just teach them tricks, this is the Person you go to. Luis is a very kind and professional human who loves dogs and you can tell. He’ll definitely teach you how to understand your dog and read their behavior. My relationship with my dog has never been as strong as it is now, after he taught me to understand her and be there for her. My dog is 3 1/2 years old now, and I first hired Luis when she was approximately five months old. Having a husky is a challenge, but Luis has made my life so much easier. I recently moved in with my partner. Luis was there for us so that my partner can have the same connection with my dog as I have. Thank you so much, Luis!!
Today was my first training session with Bonnie(amazing!!) and I couldn't be more pleased. She thoroughly explained what we would be working on with my 5-year-old golden, as well as the reasoning and science behind it. I saw changes in my dog after only one session working on staying calm and greeting people coming through the front door, recall exercises, leash walking and most importantly, establishing myself as pack leader (a work in progress!!) I can't wait for my next session and to see how my dog progresses. I was very pleased and impressed with Bonnie. She is very knowledgeable and a great trainer for both dog and human.
Rob was amazing. We saw results with our dog almost immediately. Had all the tricks. He has been the only one willing to help us. The whole experience from the first phone call was amazing, professional and caring . Highly recommend.
I have been working with Ryan at Bark Busters Colorado Springs, since February 2026… and I can’t tell you how much peace it’s brought me, and more importantly: my dog. As a single woman, and owner of a crafty hunting canine, I have employed at least four different dog training professionals. Ryan and the Bark Busters philosophy was the first where we had immediate behavior change, clear boundaries, and sound logic to make me feel confident in the ‘why.’ I have met with Ryan three times in the last month alone, and he’s always met my dog and I with empathy, kindness and enthusiasm. His gentle demeanor is appropriately countered with holding both of us (mostly me) accountable to the step-wise fashion of the program. I continue to see improvements in my dog’s confidence, a greater focus on me, steadiness in the home, and immediacy in responding to basic obedience- especially recall. I cannot recommend Ryan and the program enough! Seriously. If you’re considering their services – just do it. You, and your dog, will be so grateful you did <3
Highly recommend the training and the trainer.

Within my first lesson with Scott, my terrier daschund mix went from aggression & resource guarding towards everyone (but me) to a much more relaxed dog that no longer lunges, nips and barks at others! It's the closest thing to a miracle, but it's based in science so I am sure it can work for you too. I learned what my dog needed from me and began speaking her language with positive changes immediately seen. The program does take regular effort but like anything, you can build new habits quickly when you see them paying off.

Scott is easy to work with and teaches in a learn-by-doing method as well as providing clear verbal and written education.

This process has been extremely positive for me and my dog. I know she will never be a chill "brewery" dog, but she is so much more relaxed and I now have the tools to keep her feeling safe and not stressed.
Being the Pastor's pup and our parish mascot, it was essential that our friendly and energetic year-old Havanese puppy be well socialized. Andy trains both the dog and its humans brilliantly! He makes training exercises fun and challenging. We had homework assignments and saw improvements starting with the very first lesson in January. Andy's is not a cookie-cutter approach. He tailors training and coaching to the animal's personality, environment, and his human family's requirements. He is also always there for us to answer any questions or concerns. Thanks to Andy, our beloved pup now regularly accompanies the Pastor on parishioner visits, and is much in demand by young and old at Sunday Hospitality and other parish gatherings. He is a source of great joy to our church family!
We had a great experience with our trainer, Sharon! Our 5-month-old toy poodle, Jax, has made huge progress with potty training, leash walking, and adjusting to our home. She was patient, knowledgeable, and especially wonderful including my 7-year-old daughter, Millie, in the process. It made such a difference for our whole family. Highly recommend Sharon and Bark Busters!
Sharon is an amazing trainer! She is so patient and kind (with me and my dog). Our dog went from being very aggressive toward new people and guests to being so sweet and willing to meet them! They will meet you at your house or any place you would like to train. I think it is very important to train in real settings, not a false setting like a facility. The results are fantastic! Highly recommend to ease tensions and reduce stress with an ill-behaved pup!
We highly recommend Doug and Bark Busters! We have two young dogs that had a few behaviors we needed corrected. Reactivity, pulling on the leash, constant barking at people on walks, and jumping up on everyone they meet. In just a few sessions with Doug, our dogs are transformed. I was ready to start putting the dogs in a kennel every time we go camping this summer, but now I’m looking forward to being able to bring them along and actually enjoy our time together.

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