The Cardigan Welsh corgi is low to the ground and a long dog. The head is in good proportion to the rest of the body, with a flat skull but is rounded and tapered. The muzzle is parallel with the skull. They have a black nose, in the merle coloured dog, here we find this may be butterfly. They have wide set eyes that are medium to large, with dark rims that add depth to the eyes. The eyes are shades of brown, varying with the coat colour, the exception to this is the merle coated dog which may have blue eyes, which can be either both eyes or one. This breed has beautiful black ears that are large in proportion to the rest of the body and head that suits this breed. This dog has a prominent breastbone, which is deep. Their legs are very short, with front feet setting slightly outwards. With a long low set tail that sets this dogs' look. Coat colours include brindle, black and brindle, saddle, fawn, red, black and grey marbled, black and tan with or without white. The main dif!

ference between this corgi, and other corgi breeds is the Cardigan corgi has a long tail. Height of dogs is 10 to 13 inches, with bitches being the same. Their weight, which has to be watched, should be between 11 and 14 kg. This dog's life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years.

History: Some people believe the Cardigan Welsh corgis ancestors came from the Celts In 1200 BC. Throughout history, the Cardigan and the Pembroke Welsh corgi were interbred so most people thought this was the same breed until 1934. At this time, they were separated into two different breeds. Corgis have been used as cattle drivers and were very much a part of the working groups of dogs. Today they are very much a companion dog.

Temperament: The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a highly intelligent breed, with a great willingness to please, and are renowned for being reliable, loving and faithful. It is important to socialise this dog well, particularly when they are young, to help gain a good, balanced, dog. This dog is extremely active, particularly, when they are young, and enjoys moderate activities and walks, swimming being particularly good as this is low impact on their small legs. They are good with children who are considerate to the dog. They are fine with other non-canine animals. Even though we have a small dog, leadership skills are required as the dog can show signs of dominance, and this is to be discouraged. With good leadership, this dog is a wonderful companion. With the right amount of exercise, the corgi should not develop small dog syndrome.

Health issues: The Cardigan Welsh Corgi breed can have back disorders; these can be exaggerated by weight gains, so watching their weight is important. They are prone to PRA and can get glaucoma.

Grooming: Due to this medium length coat, brushing with a firm brush weekly is all the Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog needs. Bath only when necessary, as this can strip the natural oils.

Living conditions: The Cardigan Welsh Corgi dog will be perfectly happy in an apartment with the correct amount of exercise. This will enable them to be a happier dog all round. They can live without a garden.

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