Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs. Pembroke Welsh Corgi: What's the difference?

There are two types of corgi: Cardigan Welsh Corgi (pictured left) and Pembroke Welsh Corgi (pictured right)!

They are very similar in some ways. They are all amazing family dogs that will bring joy to you and your entire family. Cardigan is more of a serious puppy, with stronger herding and guardian instincts than Pembroke. Pembroke was more gregarious and sociable than Cardigan. The Cardigan is the original ancient corgi, while the Pembroke is the result of the Finnish Spitz dog breeding with the Cardigan centuries ago. However, they are now officially recognized as two different breeds. If you desperately want a corgi but aren't sure which one is right for you, read on!

Appearance comparison

Unless you know their species well, it's often hard to distinguish them, but according to experts, the quickest way to identify them is to look at their tails and ears. First, Cardigan's tail was erect, while Pembroke was clinging to his body. Second, Cardigan's ears are round, while Pembroke's ears are pointeder and straighter.

Both Cardigan and Pembroke are small dogs. They were all short and had equally short legs. They are one of 19 modern short-legged dogs, and their short legs are thought to have been linked to the genes that determine dwarfism. Their name corgi means "dwarf dog" in Welsh.

Because they are all shepherds, they all have a layer of undercoat to keep warm in the wet and cold Welsh weather. They are all furry, and their appearance is smooth. Pembroke's coat color is only 4 colors, while Cardigan has 11 colors, but only 5 are recognized by AKC. Similarly, they all have a distinct patch on their backs. In Welsh legend, the elf rides a corgi, which is often referred to as the "fairy saddle".

Temperament comparison

Although both breeds are traditional herding dogs, they are now more popular as family pets. They both enjoy exploring the forest, just as they like to spend an afternoon snuggled up with their loved ones on the couch. They can all adapt to the lifestyle of their respective families, which is why they are loved by families around the world.

They all have a soft spot for children and like to sit next to them. They also get along well with other family pets and dogs, so they are great for multi-pet families, just probably not for sheep!

They don't like being left alone at home for long periods of time, and they do suffer from separation anxiety disorder. The owner is not at home will bark or wail excessively, with destructive behavior.

Cardigan was less likely to be exposed to the outside world and was often cold. Compared with Pembroke, he can be more territorial and more able to retain his traditional work characteristics. So, if you want a working dog, or prefer a watchdog, then Cardigan will be your best bet!

The Pembroke Corgi is more receptive to others and barks much smaller than The Cardigan. He was more like the clown in the class, very clumsy. So, if what you want is a less serious, more silly dog, then Pembroke might be a better fit for you.

Health comparison

Cardigan and Pembroke Corgis are generally healthy, but they are also prone to similar health problems. Life expectancy in Cardigan is 12 to 15 years, while Pembroke's life expectancy is slightly shorter, at 12 to 13 years.

Cardigan may present with hip dysplasia, degenerative myelosis, and progressive retinal atrophy. Pembroke may have hip dysplasia and an eye exam is also done.

They are also also prone to disc disease (IVDD), which is due to the rupture of the disc due to their long, compact spine. Preventing them from jumping from a high place helps prevent the development of this disease.

Both Cardigan and Pembroke are prone to obesity and are more likely to be obese than the average dog, so be sure to pay attention to the amount of food they are fed. You should do everything you can to prevent them from becoming a stocky corgi.

In general, only one bath is required approximately every two months. Do not wash more than once every 6 weeks as this can damage their natural oils.

Since they are small dogs, they require more careful dental care than regular dogs, so brushing their teeth twice a week is appropriate. They may develop periodontal disease before they get older, and brushing their teeth with dog toothpaste can avoid these problems.

The Pembroke Corgi has grown in popularity in recent years, so you might spend a little more money on it than in Cardigan.

These lively and cute little ones are great family pets. They get along very well with all the adults, kids, dogs and other animals. Cardigan was more wary of outsiders and noisier than Pembroke, who was braver but a little stupid.