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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!
Deb was great with helping us learn why our dog was behaving the way she was, and gave us useful tips to help correct her behavior. While correcting her excessive barking is a work in progress, we did see improvement immediately. Our dog is becoming more comfortable around other people and is barking less the more we work with her.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Life-Changing. Truly"

I don’t write reviews lightly and I especially don’t write emotional ones but Bark Busters of San Diego quite literally gave me my life back.

For years, I lived in silence and stress. I couldn’t leave my home without my dogs barking, howling, scratching at their crates, and spiraling into panic. The mouth watering alone was enough to break me. So instead, I stayed home. I adjusted my life around their anxiety. I suffered quietly because I loved them and didn’t know what else to do.

Until one day I broke down completely.

I realized this wasn’t living not for me, and not for them. We deserved calm. We deserved peace. We deserved to live our "best" lives and this wasn’t it.

Some people complain in reviews that dog training “doesn’t work.” Let me be very clear: anxiety whether in humans or dogs is not something you fix by checking a box. A true behavioral therapist understands one thing above all else, "awareness". Anxiety comes from surroundings and perceived safety. The work is learning how to respond and create calm and that takes consistency.

I spent three straight weeks training four hours a day, every single day. I cried. I doubted myself. I wanted to quit. But I followed the Bark Busters program exactly as taught—daily simulations, real-world scenarios, repetition, and patience.

And then something incredible happened.

My dogs slept.
They relaxed.
They trusted.

Today, I can leave my home and my dogs are calm, quiet, and peacefully sleeping, knowing I’m coming back. Visitors come and go with ease. My 9- and 6-year-old Maltipoos are relaxed, confident, and happy. And so am I.

Here’s the truth people don’t want to hear, there is no magic pill. There is no shortcut. The training never “ends” because leadership and love are lifelong commitments. And honestly? That’s the gift. Once it becomes part of your daily life, it feels natural. I walk more. The cuddles are calmer. I’m no longer being climbed on out of anxiety I’m being loved in peace.

And about the cost? Think about it. You’ve already spent more on multiple trainers, treats, wasted time, emotional exhaustion, and a very unhappy household. Bark Busters’ training is guaranteed for life. If you move. If life changes. If new challenges come you’re supported. That matters more than people realize.

Justin and his team are beyond words. Compassionate. Honest. Direct. They don’t just train dogs, they train families.

Value your pet’s life. Value the short, precious time we get with them. Happiness for everyone in the home is worth the work.
🐾💛
This was great! Would recommend!
Working with John was a real pleasure today. We actually saw some improvement in our first session.
We reached out to Ryan and BarkBusters to help with our 3 dogs (9, 8.5, & 4 years old). While our dogs are super sweet, they were a mess; reactive, pullers, no boundaries, dog aggressive. We noticed a huge change after just one session! Today we were able to take the to a park with other dogs. They are more polite, so easy to walk, and sweeter than ever. This training was a game changer, we couldn't recommend Ryan more strongly.
Very thorough, John was very understanding and educated me and I saw improvement during the first session.
I was impressed how easy the dogs were to train once I understood how to communicate with them. The education you get from Bark Busters is vary valueable and really enhances the life of your dogs.
Met with Deb for about 1 1/2 hrs. She taught me the best way to communicate with my dog, and gave me great tips and advise to help me with my newly adopted dog. It worked beyond my wildest dream! He is now a very good boy! Totally recommend Bark Busters!
Deb was great with us humans and especially Winkie our puppy. Can’t wait to keep training with her!
I want to share my deep gratitude for the incredible work Bark Busters did for our family. We have two female dogs from the same litter, and we had no idea that this could lead to serious behavioral issues. Unfortunately, it did. They started fighting over everything—attention, food, you name it—and at one point, I ended up with a bite that required stitches. With a toddler in the house, I was really worried about safety and heartbroken at the thought of having to rehome one of our dogs.

Enter Bark Busters. We decided to give professional training one last shot, and I am so thankful we did. James, the owner and our trainer, was absolutely wonderful. He gave us practical, effective strategies and a solid plan that we followed closely. Now, our dogs are so much better behaved. We haven’t had any more fights, and I’ve been able to keep both of them together in our home, which means the world to me.

One of the best parts is that Bark Busters offers lifetime support for the dogs they train. If we ever need a refresher, they’ll come back out and help. They even offer to assist if, heaven forbid, the dogs ever needed to be rehomed. It’s been a life-changing experience, and I can’t recommend them enough. Thanks to James and Bark Busters, our family is whole and happy.
We are working with Greg Kleva in northern New Jersey. We have a new grandchild, our first, and while our puppy is generally wonderful, she just isn’t good with children. We had tried other dog training, but nothing really worked. We didn't know what to do. We found Greg and Bark Buster’s, and at first, we were very apprehensive because of what seemed like a large upfront payment. I have to say though that after 5 hours of training our dog has been transformed in the most positive way. She's great with our granddaughter, and we have a really good path to a happy, safe home. Greg himself is fantastic. Experienced, responsive, respectful, warm. We love him. And the Bark Busters methodology simply works. Greg has been worth every cent.
i was very pleased with the way my dogs responded to the training techniques. Orlando was very knowledable & informative.
Patiance & good understanding of dogs behavior. Explained behavioral issues and how to address them properly. Dove into nutrition and provided feedback for healthier lives.
We contacted Bark Busters to help with our rescued boy, Cam. We rescued him in November 2024. He is a very nervous dog and requires lots of direction and attention. He presents to have high anxiety at times. Cam and I started off a bit rough. He was feeling the need to protect my husband when we were both showing him affection. Unfortunately, he did lash out at me one time which resulted in a bite. This led me to reach out for help since we/I wanted to give Cam a chance to have a good life and for me to be able to be comfortable in our own home with our boy. That is the back story. Today, Cam and I have come a long way. We have had three sessions so far, several months apart. Cam is now respecting me differently, and we now know how to read him and recognize when his anxiety is escalating. Greg is amazing at our first lesson, he hit the nail on the head, assessing Cam to have anxiety that was coming from fear and not aggression. Using Greg's techniques has been life changing for all of us. I am still very careful watching Cam's body language and eyes to be sure I am not approaching him when he is in an anxious state. What has been most helpful is learning how to speak dog language and be aware of body language (both human and dog bodies). Also allowing Cam to come to me for affection has definitely helped to grow our relationship. We are so grateful and fortunate to have connected with Bark Busters! Greg was on time for all our lessons and shows up with all the tools needed for our time together. He obviously loves what he does, it shows in his ability to be personable and professional at the same time. Thank you Greg for your encouragement and honesty and trust! I highly recommend Greg!
Karen is knowledgeable and legit. Her ability to explain, model, and provide practice was perfect. We experienced immediate results with our two dogs and the results have carried on weeks later. The techniques are simple and easy to use. We HIGHLY recommend this service!
What a pleasure it was to work with Scott on training our Boxer puppy. He was very knowledgeable of all his training and explaining and made it very easy to Execute all the training steps on walking and other behaviors we need to fix. The scheduling is very easy. You just text Scott and he returns your text or call right away and he worked around our busy schedule. This is our second time we use Bark Busters service to train our dog Because the results are amazing. All it takes is steady work on all the training steps that he provides you. Thank you Scott!!!!
Scott was incredibly knowledgeable, was very patient, and explained his training style very effectively. After only the first session, I could definitely see the potential in my dog's behavior changing with consistency on my part in the training. I am very excited to continue working on it and see the outcome!
I’m so happy to be working with Omar on training my new rescue pup! After 40+ years of cats, I knew I needed guidance just as much as the puppy! Omar is super patient with both of us and we are both learning a lot! I didn’t know how to train a puppy at all. And now she sits, down, leash walks, and enters a crate in a vehicle for transport. Still working on potty training and dropping unwanted items. But having someone come to your home and work on exactly what is needed 1:1 is priceless. And he answers my endless questions. I’m thrilled with where we are so far and it’s only been about 6 weeks. You won’t be disappointed with using this firm!
We have two dogs: a 6.5-year-old, 80-pound Black Lab mix, and an almost-1-year-old Corgi mix. The lab mix has always been pretty good inside, but we got her right before COVID started. Whenever the door opens, she freaks out and barks at and jumps all over whoever is coming in. Outside, she cannot be trusted off a leash, because she will just literally run away and come back when she feels like it. The Corgi mix is a sweet guy, but we got our first notice from our HOA that we have a nuisance dog. He has been incessantly barking in the hallway when we're out of the house. Walking them together is a nightmare because they both zip off in different directions, and you become an acrobat trying to manage the leashes. We attended initial 8-week training sessions at PetSmart with both of them, and they can sit and lay down, but anything more than that is wishful thinking, and a sit/stay does not really translate into actual obedience. Scott helped us fix almost all of that in about 90 minutes. Scott's approach is to talk to dogs like you're a dog. To get their attention, you basically growl at them and imitate (!) snapping at them if necessary (I want to emphasize that there is no physical punishment for the dogs), assert leadership, and then, when they are doing the right thing, talk to them sweetly. My husband and I love this because it's so simple and consistent. We don't have to remember when to use "stay" vs "wait." Which hand signal do we use for this command vs that command? It's "bah!" and "gooood!" The first session was all indoor behavior, and since then we've had two sets of friends over and gotten the lab calmed in about 2 min vs 10 before. The corgi is much less growly/barky about hallway noises. Since we did leash training in the second session, both dogs follow respectfully on walks. Like, it was a near instant improvement. It's not perfect, but with the lab it's gonna take some time because she's had 6 years of thinking she's the boss! But the technique is so simple that it's easy to apply to new situations. The lab likes to jump up to steal food from the counter at my dad's house. A few "bah!"s with follow-up "gooood"s and that stopped cold after 5 years of it being a habit, and we didn't need to leash her the entire time we were there! It's expensive, but the speed at which we've seen improvement has made it very worth it, and knowing we can call Scott for any stuff that comes up in the future makes the price easier to handle. For example, we're hoping just the general increased respect/deference from the lab mix will allow us to eventually let her off leash, but if it doesn't, we know we can call to address that directly. Highly recommend Scott and BarkBusters!
Our dogs were uncontrollable when it come to barking when people are at our door. They are completely different dogs since Orlando has been here. Highly recommended.
After researching training options for my new puppy I’m happy that I chose Bark Busters and Ryan. He came to my home and taught me how to communicate with my dog in a way that he understands, I saw results immediately and was amazed at how quickly Keko responded when I changed my approach with him. Ryan has helped me learn how to adjust my behavior in a way that my puppy understands and responds to. Our second session was a good reminder and reinforcement of the tools and lessons that Ryan teaches. Keko has gone from running from me to coming to me on command, he behaves better on our walks and with other family members, It’s encouraging to know that I can continue to work with Ryan as needed. It’s been a pleasure working with him and the amount of knowledge he shares is very useful and insightful. Highly recommend!!
We highly recommend Heather with Bark Busters! She is a pleasure to work with to train our Roxie Lynn. She tailored our plan to fit the needs of our family. We went from a hyper puppy to a well behaved member of our family! We have learned so much about nutritional needs and animal behavior with her for our girl.
Orlando helped us get DeShaun on the leash and taught us how to gain his trust. He also taught us how to get him in and out of doors.
Karen is working diligently to train Remi and me a different method of communication. She made me realize Remi was getting mixed messages from my actions. Karen goes the extra mile to help. She will come everyday and stay longer if needed. Additionally, Remi loves her and her behavior is really improving.

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