Despite their small size and friendly nature, Corgis are usually not good for first time owners. These dogs are, in fact, very strong-minded and need an owner with experience, that knows how to be a gentle but firm leader. If a Corgi is left in the hands of an inexperienced person, he will be running the household in no time.
In addition, Corgis are high-energy dogs that need to get a good amount of exercise every day. Taking them out for half an hour’s walk won’t be enough. They need to be able to go out and run at least 3 times a day in order to lower their energy levels and be happy.
Corgis are generally considered not a good choice for first time owners also because of their heavy shedding and grooming necessities. These dogs are, in fact, high-maintenance due to their double-layer coat that will shed completely twice a year. This means that they will need to be brushed on a daily basis during the shedding seasons and at least twice a week during the rest of the year.
What Are The Pros Of Having A Corgi?
Corgis are a very popular dog breed and there are many reasons for this. They are extremely cute and lovable and you cannot avoid falling in love with them. Due to their relatively small size, Corgis can be taken for walks without any hassle. They usually feel comfortable in a variety of different environments.
They are also active and playful, which makes them great companions for owners who like to take their dogs to parks or to agility competitions. Furthermore, Corgis are very friendly and cheerful. This makes them an ideal choice for those looking to add some brightness to their life.
You should get a Corgi if you want a dog that is:
- Outgoing and friendly
- Active and loves to do new things
- Small and easy to take around
- Very smart
Corgis are considered a small breed of dog that can weigh from 24 to 37 pounds and stand between 11 and 13 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them a perfect size for people living in apartments or small homes.
Additionally, Corgis are smart and eager to please their owners. This means that they are easy to train and usually very good in agility competitions. With proper socialization and training, Corgis can be well-mannered companions that are a joy to have around.
What Are The Cons Of Having A Corgi?
While Corgis are universally loved for their adorable appearance and playful nature, there can be some downsides to owning one of these dogs. One of the main aspects to consider before getting a Corgi is that this breed was originally used for herding sheep. For this reason, they have a strong instinct to chase other animals. This can make them difficult to keep around smaller pets such as cats or even children.
Another reason why Corgis would not be an ideal choice for a first time owners is that they are prone to injuries due to their short legs. They can also suffer from back problems since they have a very long spine compared to the rest of their body.
Additionally, Corgis are notorious eaters. They have been known to eat just about anything they can get their paws on, including shoes, socks, and remote controls. For this reason, they are often prone to obesity and need to follow a strict diet.
You shouldn’t get a Corgi if you don’t want a dog that is:
- Strong-minded and stubborn
- Needs an experienced owner
- Is prone to back problems
- Needs a lot of exercise
- Is a heavy shedder
Corgis are high-energy dogs and would not be the right choice for anyone who cannot provide them with a good amount of daily exercise. If they don’t get what they need they usually become destructive and will bark excessively. They can also be very stubborn and strong-minded. This is why they need an owner with experience and a good amount of training.
Are Corgis High Maintenance?
While all dogs require some level of care and attention, Corgis are generally considered to be relatively high maintenance. These compact and lively dogs are intelligent and active, and they need plenty of exercise and stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Taking them to the dog park at least twice a day is the absolute minimum you can expect to be doing.
Additionally, their coat needs to be brushed regularly to prevent tangles and matting. This is due to the fact that they have a double-layer coat with an undercoat and a topcoat. The undercoat will shed completely twice a year, in spring and in autumn.
Throughout this period, you will need to brush your Corgi every day with a good slicker brush. During the rest of the year brushing him twice a week will usually be enough.
Despite their small size, Corgis are actually quite strong-minded and stubborn. They need firm but gentle training from an early age in order to learn basic obedience commands. If this is not done properly you can expect to have to deal with unpleasant situations.
A Corgi can become destructive and start chewing pieces of your furniture when left alone. He might also decide to bark and have a chat to the neighbors while you are not around.
Do Corgis Cuddle?
In general, most Corgis do enjoy cuddling and will do so given the opportunity. The level of cuddling Corgis are willing to do often depends on how well they know and trust the person they are cuddling with. Corgis love to be close to their humans and will often cuddle up on the sofa or in bed. They also enjoy belly rubs and being petted.
Corgis like to be the center of attention and they will usually never turn away from a bunch of cuddles. Of course, all dogs are different and have their own personality, but in genal Corgis are affectionate pooches. Since they can be stubborn, though, you may find yourself with a Corgi that wants to be cuddled only when he thinks it’s the right moment.
This is part of their personality and shouldn’t be seen as a negative aspect. It just means that they love their owner, but at the same time they are not like a Border Collie that will do whatever their owner says. They are Corgis and you will just have to accept that!
How Often Do Corgis Need To Be Walked?
Corgis are naturally active dogs that require frequent exercise to stay healthy and happy. They should be taken out at least three times a day to help get their energy out and keep them mentally and physically stimulated. However, just taking them for a walk on a leash will not be enough.
Corgis were originally used for herding sheep in Scotland. This is why they love to work and have tasks to complete. If you cannot find a job for them (let’s face it, it’s not easy), then you will have to at least take them to a park where they can run free a couple of times a day.
By giving your Corgi the right amount of exercise during the day you will not only make him happy but you will also keep him healthy. These pooches are in fact prone to obesity since they just love to eat anything they can find. This can be a really concerning issue, because of their small stature and long spine. So if you have a Corgi in your life, make sure that you always prioritize making time for plenty of physical activity.
Are Corgis Good Apartment Dogs?
Corgis make good apartment dogs mainly due to their small size. This makes them perfect for living in an urban context with a limited amount of space. These pooches will have no problems adapting to an apartment and will easily navigate even the tiniest spaces.
You will have no issues living in an apartment with a Corgi as long as you provide him with a good amount of exercise. Living in a smaller space may not afford your dog ample opportunity to stay active.
You will have to make up for that. He will need to be taken for a good run at the park at least twice a day. This way his energy levels will stay low.
Are Corgis Good For First Time Owners? Final Thoughts
Corgis are an exceptional breed of dog but it is usually not a good choice for first time owners. Despite their undeniable cuteness and friendliness, these pooches have a will of their own. They need an owner that can be a firm leader, otherwise, they will become head of the household in no time.
In addition, these dogs have high energy levels due to the fact that they used to be working dogs. This means that they need an owner that can provide them with a lot of exercise. Just going for short walks a couple of times a day won’t be enough for these pooches.
In addition, first time owners of Corgis could have difficulties taking care of their coat. They have, in fact, a double-layer coat that will shed twice a year. This means that they have to be brushed with the right tools on a daily basis during the shedding seasons and at least twice a week the rest of the year.
For all first time owners that can’t resist Corgis and want one in their life, be sure to take your pooch to obedience classes from a very young age. This way your dog will learn how to behave in the right way. Additionally, you will be able to understand how to become the leader of the pack.
