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Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) - Information and NZ Breed Standards

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Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)


General Information - Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)


Group:
Working

Size:
Medium

Lifespan:
10-16 years

Exercise:
Medium

Grooming:
Very low

Trainability:
High

Watchdog Ability:
Very high

Protection Ability:
Medium

Area of Origin:
Wales

Date of Origin:
Ancient times

Other Names:
None

Original Function:
Cattle driving



History

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is distantly related to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, probably sharing a common ancestor, the Swedish Vallhund. Despite this however, the Cardigan is regarded as being of Teckel (dwarf dogs such as Basset, Dachshund, etc) descent whereas the Pembroke is regarded as being of Spitz descent. The Welsh farmers of Cardiganshire developed and kept the breed as a valuable working companion. Their small stature made them ideal to live with in the small cottages, and when herding and protecting flocks and herds they could go in under the stock to bite the heels, never getting injured, as the heels would fly well above their heads. The name Corgi as applied to the Cardigan means cur dog. Not derogatory, but 'Cur' being simply a working dog – or dwarf dog. It has been suggested that all small working dogs in Wales were once referred to as Corgi. Logically this suggestion has some merit and can be confirmed by the situation of the Cardigan and Pembroke – both small Welsh dogs, originally of no relation, but still both Corgis.

Upkeep

The Cardigan is easy to feed, not being known as fussy dogs, but it is extremely important that they are not allowed to become overweight as this puts a strain on their long backs and short legs. To keep in neat condition, an occasional bath is advised and a weekly brush or comb to remove shedding coat. Like all working breeds, they do need good exercise but can be kept on quite a small section if given regular exercise. Their working instinct is still very obvious and they are very capable farm helpers.

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