Pros and Cons of Welsh Corgis

Welsh Corgis are known for their short legs, long bodies, big ears, and endearing personalities. This is not a single breed: they're made up of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, two distinct breeds with similar temperaments but different looks. The Pembroke Corgi is famous worldwide for being the favorite dog breed of Queen Elizabeth II.

Both breeds have a charming, playful nature that makes them a hit with families. But these dogs do have their own set of pros and cons that potential owners should consider before bringing a Corgi into their home.

Let’s Start with the Pros

Pro: They're Full of Personality

One of the most appealing traits of the Welsh Corgi is their personality. These dogs are known for being lively, playful, and full of energy. They're known as one of the most playful dog breeds and are always up for a game of fetch or a walk in the park.

They're also incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle. They'll often follow their owners around the house, always wanting to be in the thick of things. This makes them great companions and they're sure to bring a lot of love and laughter into your home.

Pro: They're Smart and Easy to Train

Welsh Corgis are one of the smartest small dog breeds. They're quick learners and are also eager to please, two qualities that make them very trainable, too. Whether you're teaching your Corgi basic commands or more advanced tricks, they're sure to pick it up quickly.

Welsh Corgis can be trained to perform a variety of tasks because they love the mental stimulation that training provides!

Pro: They're Great with Kids

Welsh Corgis are known for being excellent with kids. They're patient, gentle, and love to play, making them a great choice for families with children. Your Corgi and kid will play together and nap together. Your Corgi may even watch over your kid when she plays in the yard, acting as her guardian.

As with any dog, it's important to teach your kids how to interact with a Welsh Corgis properly; children should be taught not to pull on the dog's ears or tail and to respect the dog's space.

Pro: They’re Super Loyal

Corgis form very strong bonds with their owners and have a deeply protective nature. This isn’t a passing loyalty, but a lifelong attachment. This strong emotional bond is one that you’ll benefit from; and know that you'll mean the world to your Corgi.

What About the Cons? 

Con: They Can Be Stubborn

While Welsh Corgis are intelligent and can be trained to do a range of tasks, they can also be quite stubborn. This can make training a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners.

Welsh Corgis are known for their independent streak. They like to do things their own way and can be resistant to commands. This can be frustrating for owners, but with patience and consistency, it can be overcome.

Con: They Shed a Lot

Welsh Corgis have a double coat that requires regular brushing to keep it clean and tangle-free. Shedding can also be quite heavy, especially during seasonal changes. If you're not a fan of vacuuming up dog hair, you might want to consider other low-shedding breeds.

In addition, their coat comes in two varieties: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi with a shorter, sleeker coat, and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi with a longer, bushier coat. Each type requires specific grooming techniques to maintain their coat's health and appearance, such as regular baths and occasional trims to prevent matting.

Con: They Bark a Lot

Although Welsh Corgis are generally well-mannered, they can be bark excessively given their herding instincts. This is to alert you to potential dangers and to protect their family. 

Early socialization and consistent training can help keep their barking tendency in check.

Con: They Need a Lot of Exercise

While their energy and playfulness can be a pro, it can also be a con. Welsh Corgis require a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy. This means that they're not the best fit for individuals or families who are not active or do not have a lot of time to devote to exercise.

Without enough exercise, your Welsh Corgi may become bored and destructive. They may start to chew on furniture, dig holes in your yard, or engage in other destructive behaviors. Therefore, it's important for potential owners to consider whether they can meet a Welsh Corgi's exercise needs before bringing one home.

Con: They're Prone to Some Health Issues

Like many purebred dogs, Welsh Corgis are prone to certain health issues. This includes hip dysplasia, eye problems, and obesity. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy diet can help manage these issues, but it's something to be aware of if you're considering this breed.

It's also worth noting that because of their long bodies and short legs, they can be prone to back issues. Regular exercise and avoiding activities that put strain on their backs (like jumping off furniture) can help prevent these problems.

Considerations Before Adopting a Corgi

Think about your lifestyle and whether it aligns with the needs of a Welsh Corgi. Are you able to commit to regular exercise and mental stimulation? Do you have the time and patience to train and groom them? Make sure to do thorough research and speak to reputable breeders or rescue organizations to gain a deeper understanding of the breed.

Barking is another behavioral trait that Welsh Corgis are known for, often sounding the alarm at any perceived threat. Early training and positive reinforcement techniques can help minimize excessive barking and ensure that it's controlled and appropriate.

In Conclusion

Welsh Corgis, whether Cardigan or Pembroke, are wonderful breeds with a ton to offer. They're friendly, intelligent, and great with kids and other pets. However, they also require a lot of exercise and can be stubborn. Therefore, it's important for potential owners to consider these pros and cons before deciding to bring a Welsh Corgi into their home.

If you're feeling inspired to find a Welsh Corgi that could become a cherished part of your family, Mawoo Pets is here to guide you every step of the way. With Mawoo Pets, you can be confident that your new Welsh Corgi comes from a background of love and the highest standards of care. Explore our Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies or Cardigan Welsh Corgi puppies to take the first step towards creating a lifelong bond with your new best friend.