Having its origins in Wales, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is one of the two Welsh corgis breeds (the other one is called Pembroke) and it is a herding type of dog. Also known by the names Cardigan, CWC or Cardi, this dog makes a good pet, since it can easily adapt to any living conditions and it becomes very attached to its family.
As general appearance, the CWC is a small-sized animal with a very long body compared to its short legs. The ears are also big and usually stay pointed upward while the tail is long and fluffy (because of the thick fur it is covered with).
As to what the coat is concerned, it has a double layer (the undercoat is short and thick, weather resistant as well, while the outer coat is coarse and long). The size of the hair is uneven across the body, being longer on the back of the legs, on the tail and in the neck area. Coat colors may include red, black and brindle (or simple brindle), fawn, sable, blue merle (a combination of black and gray) or black and tan. White markings may appear on the legs, neck, chest or muzzle, but it is not a must. Maintenance is not a difficult task either regular brushing with a firm brush and bathing only when necessary should do the trick. The shedding process occurs two times a year.
With a life span of 12 to 15 years, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is usually 25-33 centimeters tall and can weigh between 11 and 14 kilograms. Regarding possible health problems that might arise, this breed is prone to PRA and glaucoma and may develop back disorders. Also, since there is a tendency to easily gain weight, it is best not to feed your dog too much in order to avoid it becoming fat and lazy or develop back problems.
Being small, a CWC will easily adapt to both apartment and house/yard living conditions but, if kept as an apartment pet, make sure to exercise it regularly. Since it is a herding dog by nature, it will need a lot of exercise to keep healthy and in shape, so long walks are a must, and games or any other kind of activities that require physical effort are beneficial for both its body and mind.
The Cardi is a very intelligent and obedient dog. It is loyal, reliable, affectionate towards its family and protective at the same time, making it a good guard dog at the same time. It can be easily trained and it needs socializing from an early age, so that it will not develop any behavior issues. It is good with children and with other pets as well (though it may be a bit aggressive with dogs). Also, in order to make sure your dog will grow up in the right manner, never let it forget who the leader is by constantly and calmly communicating with it.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a loving little dog that will become your best friend and your protector in an instant good with children, loyal, obedient and very intelligent, it will be the perfect pet.
