Corgi History Archives - Corgi Central https://corgi-central.com/category/corgi-history/ The best blog for Corgi owners Fri, 02 Dec 2022 02:49:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.4 Cardigan vs Pembroke Corgi https://corgi-central.com/cardigan-vs-pembroke-corgi/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cardigan-vs-pembroke-corgi Fri, 02 Dec 2022 02:47:47 +0000 https://corgi-central.com/?p=2855 Find out the key distinctions between Cardigans and Pembrokes, two types of Welsh Corgis. By the end, you'll be an expert on corgis!

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The Difference Between Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Do you know the difference between a Cardigan Welsh Corgi and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi? If not, don’t worry! Many people are unaware of the differences between these two Corgi breeds.

In this blog post, we will discuss the key distinctions between Cardigans and Pembrokes. By the end, you’ll be an expert on corgi breeds!

The brief history of corgis

Many people think that Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis are the same breeds of dogs, but this is not the case! Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis have different origins.

For starters, these two dog breeds come from different regions of Wales. Pembroke Welsh Corgis originated from Pembrokeshire in southern Wales, while Cardigan Welsh Corgis come from Cardiganshire in southwest Wales.

In addition, these dogs have different origins. The origin of the Pembroke Welsh Corgis is not very clear. Some historians say that these dogs arrived in Wales with Nordic settlers between the 9th and 10th centuries AD.

Others say they came with the Flemish in the 12th century AD. Pembrokes are descended from the Nordic Spitz family of dogs.

On the other hand, the Cardigan Corgis arrived around two thousand years earlier (1200 BC.), at the hand of the Celts who brought these dogs with them from Central Europe.

Some experts say that Cardigan corgis are descendants of the German Teckel family of dogs. In other words, cardigan corgis may be more closely related to Dachshunds than to Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

The Cardigan and the Pembroke were both used by Welsh farmers to herd cattle and sheep to grazing land and guard the barnyard.

The reason the two types of Corgis look so similar is that both breeds were interbred by Welsh breeders over time. It was not until 2006 that the American Kennel Club recognized the Cardigan Welsh Corgis and the Pembroke Welsh Corgis as different breeds.

Related post: Are Corgis Herding Dogs?

Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Appearance

Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis may look similar at first glance, but there are some significant differences between the two breeds.

Pembrokes are slightly smaller than Cardigans, with shorter legs and a more compact body. They also have pointy ears, whereas Cardigans have rounded ears.

Cardigans also have tails, while Pembrokes have their tails docked when they are puppies (though some owners choose not to do this).

Cardigans also tend to have thicker fur and may come in a variety of colors with white markings. The colors of Cardigan corgis can be Black, Blue Merle, Brindle, Gray, Liver, Red, Sable, Sable Merle, White Merle, Brindle Merle, and Red Merle.

While Pembrokes’s coats can be Black & Tan, Fawn, Red, and Sable. All with white markings.

Related post: What are corgis bred for?

Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Temperament

Cardigan Welsh Corgis are known for being independent and headstrong, while Pembrokes are said to be more eager to please and easygoing. 

Because of their independent streak, Cardigans may be less responsive to training than Pembrokes.

However, both breeds are intelligent dogs that can learn tricks and obey commands with proper training and socialization. 

Cardigans may be better suited for families with older children because of their calmer demeanor. Both Cardigans and Pembrokes do well with other friendly dogs but should be supervised around smaller pets like cats.

Related post: Are corgis easy to train?

Final thoughts

In conclusion, cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis are related breeds that share many physical and temperamental similarities. However, they also have distinct differences in terms of their body structure, coat colors, and personality traits.

Pembrokes tend to be more energetic and playful, while Cardigans are calmer and gentler. Ultimately, both breeds make wonderful pets for families looking for fun-loving and loyal companions.

No matter which breed you choose, you can be sure that your new pup will bring lots of joy to your life!

Related post: What are the different Corgi types?

Sources and useful links:

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Are Corgis Herding Dogs? https://corgi-central.com/are-corgis-herding-dogs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=are-corgis-herding-dogs Thu, 24 Nov 2022 02:10:39 +0000 https://corgi-central.com/?p=2586 Pembroke Welsh Corgis are some of the most popular dogs in America, but many people don't know what they were originally bred for. These dogs were originally used as herding dogs in Wales!

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Are Corgis Herding Dogs?

The answer is a resounding yes! Both the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis have been used as herding dogs for centuries. Not only do they have the intelligence and instinct to be great herders, but they also have the loyalty and affection that make for a perfect pet.

Corgis are some of the most popular dogs in America. There is no doubt that they are adorable, but many people don’t know what they were originally bred for. These dogs were originally used as herding dogs in Wales!

Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis are still used as herding dogs today, and many of them compete in AKC Herding competitions. If you’re looking for a dog that is both cute and talented, a Corgi may be the perfect pet for you!

Not only are they incredibly smart, but they also have an instinctive drive to herd and protect their families. Whether you are looking to just have a loving companion or train them as a herding dog, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is sure to bring lots of joy into your life.

With their playful personalities and subtle intelligence, these dogs make for excellent companions. So if you are considering bringing home a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, know that you are getting a reliable herding dog that is sure to make your life much more fun!

Corgis became particularly popular in the UK during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, who owned several of these dogs herself. Today, there are two main types of corgis: the Pembroke Welsh corgi and the Cardigan Welsh corgi.

Both types are still used as herding dogs in some parts of the world, but they have also become beloved family pets. Thanks to their friendly dispositions and their regal appearance, corgis continue to be some of the most popular dogs around.

Related post: Welsh Corgi History

Can corgis herd sheep?

Corgis are small but mighty dogs that were originally bred for herding sheep and other animals. Despite their size, corgis are extremely intelligent and have a strong herding instinct.

When left to their own devices, corgis will typically start by rounding up any loose animals in the area. Once all of the animals are gathered together, the corgi will then begin to herd them in a specific direction.

Corgis are also known for their nimble movement and quick reflexes, which make them well-suited for herding larger animals such as cows. In recent years, corgis have become popular pets, but they still retain their herding instincts.

Many corgi owners have found that their dogs will try to herd family members and other pets around the house. While this behavior can be frustrating at times, it’s also a testament to the corgi’s impressive intelligence and abilities.

Are corgis good at herding?

Corgis are often considered good herding dogs because of their compact size and strong herding instinct

Corgis are small, stocky dogs with short legs. Despite their appearance, they are quite sturdy and can handle farm work. Plus, their small size makes them ideal for herding livestock by nipping at their heels.

.Corgis are also bred to be intelligent and trainable, which makes them easy to work with. Additionally, Corgis have a lot of energy and stamina, which is necessary for a job that involves a lot of movement.

Finally, Corgis are known for being loyal and protective of their owners, which can be beneficial in a working environment. Consequently, these characteristics make Corgis good candidates for herding dogs.

Do corgis try to herd people?

Yes, indeed, corgis will often attempt to herd people. This is a testament to their herding instincts. Although this behavior can sometimes be frustrating, it’s also one of the things that make them such unique and lovable companions.

Fortunately, with proper training and consistent reinforcement, most corgis can learn to control their herding tendencies around people. This kind of training is essential if you want your corgi to be a well-behaved and enjoyable family pet.

So, although corgis can indeed display herding behaviors towards people, with the right guidance they can learn to channel those instincts in more appropriate ways.

Final Thoughts

To answer the question, yes, Corgis are herding dogs. With their compact size, intelligence, and strong loyalty, they make excellent herders and have been used for this purpose since their inception in Wales.

However, it is important to remember that Corgis may require training and patience to control any herding behavior towards people. With the right guidance, Corgis can make wonderful and loyal herding dogs.

If you’re looking for a herding dog breed, the Corgi is an excellent choice. With their history as Welsh herding dogs, they are bred to do this type of work. Corgis can herd sheep and other animals by nipping at their heels, which encourages them to move in the desired direction.

In addition to being good herders, Corgis are also intelligent, loyal, and friendly dogs that make great companions. So, if you’re thinking about getting a herding dog breed like a Corgi, be sure to do your research so you know what you’re signing up for.

Check out our other posts on different types of herding dogs to learn more about these amazing creatures!

Related post: Can corgis be service dogs?

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Are corgis born with tails? https://corgi-central.com/are-corgis-born-with-tails/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=are-corgis-born-with-tails Thu, 01 Sep 2022 04:52:33 +0000 https://corgi-central.com/?p=1935 Corgis are born with long fluffy tails. However, some corgis have their tails docked when they are young puppies.

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Are corgis born with tails?

People often wonder if corgis are born with tails. The answer is yes, they are born with long fluffy tails. However, some corgis have their tails docked, or removed when they are young puppies. This is a cosmetic procedure that is often done for aesthetic reasons. Read on to learn more about the origins of corgi tails!

Which Corgi has a long tail?

Cardigan Welsh Corgis and Pembroke Welsh Corgis are both breeds of Corgi, but they are known for their different tails. Cardigan Welsh Corgis are known for their long full-length tails, while Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for not having tails.

However, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are born with long full-length tails nearly identical to Cardigan Welsh Corgi tails. but, they will have their tails docked shortly after they are born. Breeders do this to conform to the breed standards, which say that Pembroke corgi’s tails should be Docked as short as possible without being indented.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi with its tail docked

Do Pembroke corgis have tails?

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a breed of dog that is most known for its long, fox-like tail. This tail is typically cut a few days after birth so that the dog meets the breed standards.

However, there is beginning to be a movement among owners and breeders of Pembroke Welsh Corgis to keep the tails of their dogs natural. There are several reasons for this movement.

The first reason is that many believe the long tail is an important part of the corgi’s personality and character. The long tail is what makes the corgi unique and special. It is also a part of the corgi’s history and tradition.

The second reason is that many people believe that the long tail serves an important purpose in terms of the dog’s health and well-being. The long tail helps to balance the dog and keep it healthy. It also allows the dog to communicate with other dogs and animals.

The third reason is that many people believe that the long tail looks aesthetically pleasing. The long tail adds to the beauty of the corgi.

Some people oppose keeping the tails of Pembroke Welsh Corgis natural. They argue that the long tail can be a nuisance and a danger to the dog.

They say that the long tail can get caught on things and cause injury to the dog. They also argue that the long tail can make it difficult for the dog to move around and do everyday activities.

Despite these arguments, many people believe that keeping the tails of Pembroke Welsh Corgis natural is important. They believe preserving this part of corgi history and tradition is essential. They also believe that it is important for the health and well-being of their dogs

Related post: Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis Have Tails?

Pembroke Welsh Corgi with long tail

Is tail docking cruel?

While some people may think that docking a tail is cruel, it is a relatively painless procedure. The docking is performed when the puppy is very young, so it does not experience any pain or lasting effects from the procedure. This is done to meet the breed standards, but many people are beginning to reject this practice.

This is a controversial practice that is beginning to be rejected by many people. There are several reasons for this, including the belief that the long tail is an important part of the corgi’s personality and character. There is also a belief that the long tail serves an important purpose in terms of the dog’s health and well-being. Despite these arguments, many people still choose to dock their corgi’s tails.

Are Corgis naturally bobtailed?

There are some Pembroke Welsh Corgis who are born with very short tails, and these are known as Natural Bobtail Corgis. This occurs because they have genes that cause their tails to not fully develop. Bobtail Corgis are rare and hard to find.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi with long tail

Final thoughts

While the practice of docking tails is currently legal in many countries, it is a procedure that is often met with criticism from animal welfare groups. Some people believe that docking a dog’s tail is cruel and unnecessary, as the tail serves no functional purpose.

However, others argue that docking tails help to prevent injuries and health problems for dogs. What do you think? Do you believe that docking a dog’s tail is cruel and unnecessary, or do you believe that it can be beneficial for the dog’s health? Let us know in the comments below.

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The Queen’s Royal Corgis https://corgi-central.com/the-queens-royal-corgis/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-queens-royal-corgis Wed, 17 Aug 2022 04:36:24 +0000 https://corgi-central.com/?p=1835 Windsor Castle is home to many royals, but the most famous are undoubtedly the Queen's royal corgis. Learn more about these beloved dogs!

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If you’re a fan of the British royal family, then you know that corgis have been a part of their dynasty for centuries. The queen has reportedly owned more than 30 corgis during her reign. But where did these little dogs come from, and why are they so popular among royals?

How many corgis has Queen Elizabeth owned?

The Corgi is a Welsh breed of dog that has been associated with the British royals for centuries. The Queen herself is said to have owned more than 30 corgis during her reign. These little dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and playful personalities.

The Queen’s love for her corgis is well-known, and she has often been photographed with them. Royal corgis are also known for their loyalty and elegance, and they have become one of the most iconic symbols of the British monarchy.

Some claim that the Queen’s love for the breed can be traced back to 1933 when her father King George VI brought home a corgi for his daughters Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. 

In 2012, the Queen decided to stop breeding corgis, and in April 2018, her last corgi passed away. While the reason for this decision is unknown, it is speculated that the Queen didn’t want to leave any young dogs behind when she passed away.

The Royal family has always been known for their love of animals, especially dogs, and the Queen’s longtime Companion Willow will be remembered as one of the most iconic royal pets.

Image source: bbc.com

What happened to Queen Elizabeth’s corgis?

Royal corgis are considered a symbol of the British monarchy, and they often accompany the Queen on public engagements. However, they are also cherished members of the Royal Family, often appearing in family photographs and holiday cards.

In 2018, the Queen’s last royal corgi, Willow, died at the age of 14. While this marked the end of an era, it also highlights the special bond that exists between the Royal Family and their corgis.

In February 2021, her son, Prince Andrew, and her granddaughters, Princess Beatrice and Eugenie gifted her two new puppies—Muick, a corgi, and Fergus, a dorgi—to keep her company while Prince Philip was hospitalized. Unfortunately, Fergus passed away in May 2021. Yet in June, the Queen got another corgi, Sandy, to keep Muick company. 

Sandy is the first royal corgi to be owned by the Queen in nearly a decade, and she is already a much-loved member of the family. With Sandy by her side, the Queen can continue to enjoy the companionship of her beloved corgis for years to come.

The Royal Family has always been associated with dogs, and the corgi is just one of the many breeds that they have owned over the years. Other royal dogs include labradors, cocker spaniels, and dorgis (a cross between a dachshund and a corgi). However, it is the royal corgis that have truly captured the hearts of the British public, and they will always be considered a cherished part of the Royal Family.

The Queen is often seen taking her corgis for walks around the grounds of Windsor Castle, and they have become a much-loved symbol of her reign. For many people, Royal corgis are a cherished part of British history, and they will continue to be associated with the Royal family for years to come.

image source: @theroyalfamily/Instagram

Final thoughts

So there you have it – a little bit about the royal corgis of Queen Elizabeth. We hope you’ve enjoyed this look into the lives of these lovable dogs and that you learned something new, too!

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What are corgis bred for? https://corgi-central.com/what-are-corgis-bred-for/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-are-corgis-bred-for Mon, 11 Jul 2022 02:10:42 +0000 https://corgi-central.com/?p=1435 Many people believe that corgis are bred as pets, but this is not the case. Corgis were bred to herd sheep.

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Corgis are a popular breed of dog, but what are they bred for? Many people believe that Corgis are bred as pets, but this is not the case. Corgis were bred to herd sheep. They have a lot of energy and are very agile, which makes them perfect for this job.

They are also known for being very friendly and good with children. If you’re thinking about getting a Corgi, be sure to do your research so that you can provide him or her with the best possible care.

What were Corgis bred for?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis were originally bred in Wales for herding cattle, but they can now be found in households all over the world as beloved pets.

Corgis are a type of herding dog that is known for their low height and agility. These characteristics allowed them to avoid being kicked by cattle while herding them. Corgis would nip at the heels of the larger animals to keep them moving. Welsh Corgis were originally used for cattle herding, but they can now be found as pets in many households.

These dogs are intelligent and trainable, making them good companions. Welsh Corgis are loyal and protective of their families, which makes them good watchdogs. Although they are small dogs, they have a lot of energy and need plenty of exercises. Welsh Corgis are an active breed that is well-suited for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

Welsh Corgis are a type of cattle herding dog, colloquially known as a “heeler.” Unlike other types of herding dogs, heelers nip at the heels of larger animals to encourage them to keep moving. This method is effective because it allows the dog to avoid being stepped on by the livestock.

Related post: History of the Corgi

What was the purpose of the Corgi?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a long and storied history as loyal and hardworking dogs. Originally from Wales, these dogs were bred to be herding dogs, and they quickly proved their worth on the farms of their homeland.

These dogs are known for their short legs and long bodies, and they are experts at herding sheep and cattle. The Welsh have always used these dogs as family companions and guardians of the farm, and even today, they still play an important role in Welsh culture.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent dogs that are easy to train, and they make great pets for families with children. If you are looking for a loyal and loving companion, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi might be the perfect dog for you.

Are Corgis hunting dogs?

Corgis are not hunting dogs, despite their long bodies and short legs. This build might make them seem well-suited for burrow hunting, as is the case with Dachshunds. But in fact, Corgis were bred as herding dogs. Their low center of gravity and short stature made them ideal for nipping at the heels of sheep and cattle, helping to keep them moving.

The Welsh Corgi is an especially good herder because of its intelligence and obedience. Though they were originally bred for herding, many corgis today make great companion animals. They are loyal and affectionate, and they will quickly become a cherished member of the family.

Are Corgis herding dogs?

Yes, Corgis are herding dogs. These dogs are herding dogs by nature. From the beginning, the Welsh used Pembroke Welsh Corgis as herding dogs, family companions, and guardians of the farm. Even today, these dogs are still expert herders. Many Pembrokes even compete in AKC Herding competitions.

While they may be small in size, they more than makeup for it with their athleticism and intelligence. Corgis are quick on their feet and have a herding instinct. They are also very smart dogs, which makes them easy to train. If you’re looking for a herding dog, you can’t go wrong with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Related post: Are Corgis smart dogs?

Why were Corgis bred with short legs?

Corgis are a type of herding dog that was originally bred in Wales. One of the most distinctive features of Corgis is their short legs. While this may seem like a disadvantage, it served an important purpose for Corgis that were used for herding cattle.

Corgis with short legs are less likely to be injured when they are working, which was a huge advantage for farmers who needed their dogs to be healthy and able to work. Today, many people still choose to own Corgis because of their impressive herding abilities.

However, the short legs of Corgis also make them excellent companion dogs, since they are less likely to jump up on people or knock them over. In addition, Corgis are relatively small dogs, so they do not require a lot of space.

For all these reasons, Corgis continue to be one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.

Related post: How big do Corgis get?

Why are Corgi’s tails docked?

The breed’s signature docked tail was originally intended to prevent cattle from stomping on or stepping on it while the dog was herding. Today, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are still used as herders, but their tails are typically left intact. 

Today, tail docking is no longer considered necessary, and many Pembroke Welsh Corgis have full-length tails. However, most Corgis still have their tails docked, although the practice is slowly becoming less common. Whether their tails are long or short, these dogs are still one of the most popular breeds in the world.

Some people believe that tail docking gives these dogs a more “pleasing” appearance, while others argue that it is a cruel and unnecessary practice. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to dock a Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s tail is up to the owner.

Related post: Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis Have Tails?

Final Thoughts

So, what are Corgis bred for? The answer is a little bit of everything. They’re great herding dogs because they’re so quick and agile; they make excellent watchdogs because of their alertness and protective nature; and lastly, they’re perfect family pets because of their loving personalities.

If you’re considering adding a Welsh Pembroke Corgi to your family, be sure to learn about their needs and what they were bred for. Corgis need plenty of exercises and can be prone to obesity if not kept active.

Herding instincts can also cause problems if there are other animals in the home, so be prepared to manage this behavior if you have other pets. Corgis make great companions and are known for their happy dispositions. With proper care, they will provide years of enjoyment for your family.

If you want a versatile dog that can do it all, the Welsh Corgi might just be the right breed for you!

Related post: Swedish Vallhund: The Wolf Corgi

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Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis Have Tails? https://corgi-central.com/do-corgis-have-tails/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=do-corgis-have-tails Thu, 04 Feb 2021 01:47:32 +0000 https://corgi-central.com/?p=429 Find out if corgis have tails. The answer may surprise you! This interesting article is great for anyone looking to learn more about corgi puppies and dogs.

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Do Corgis have tails?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are born with tails. One of the most distinguishing features of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is its stubby tail. But did you know that Pembroke Welsh Corgis are born with long tails? It’s true! However, because of their breed standard, many have their tails docked 2 to 5 days after birth.

Natural bobtailed Corgis (born with very short tails) do exist, but they’re not nearly as common. On the other hand, Cardigan Welsh Corgis almost always retain their tails, as tails are part of their breed standard. So, if you’re ever wondering why some Corgis have tails and others don’t, now you know!

Are Corgi’s tails docked?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a popular breed of dog, known for their stubby legs and long body. According to the American Kennel Club, they should also have a docked tail. The tail should be docked as short as possible without creating an indentation in the tail region. This is to conform to the breed standard set by the AKC.

Some people believe that docking a dog’s tail is cruel, but it is a humane practice if done correctly. Tail docking is typically done when the puppy is around two days old, and it only takes a few seconds to complete. After the procedure, the puppy will heal quickly and will not experience any long-term effects.

Although, many Corgi owners are beginning to defy the rules and do not accept that their puppies’ tails get docked. The results of these are Corgis with long, furry tails, some Corgis grow tails that look like the ones of red foxes and are fascinating to watch.

Why do they cut Corgi tails?

The breeders of Pembroke Welsh Corgis cut the tails of these dogs to conform to the breed standards imposed by kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club or the Kennel Club of England, these organizations determine the appearance that the breeds should have. In the case of Pembroke Corgis, the standard says that their tails should be as short as possible without being indented.

This is mainly because the Pembroke Corgis were created for herding work and their natural tails were a hindrance, and it was necessary to cut them so that the dog could fulfill its functions. Perhaps the concern was that the sheep could step on the tail of the dog and cause harm, so the best thing for the well-being of the dog is that it does not have a tail.

However, this theory does not make much sense if we look at the breed standard of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Cardigan Corgis were created to fulfill the same herding functions, but these dogs do not have their tails docked. So it seems that cardigan Corgis tails are cut off for aesthetic reasons.

Why do breeders dock the tails of Corgi puppies?

This practice of breeders docking tails of Corgis is related to this expectation of the breed standard and because of the heritage of the animal. The idea here is that this working dog would be impeded if it had a long tail.

There are concerns that it could get in the way or even become injured as the dog runs around the land herding livestock. Ranch owners may see the benefits in docking these tails and that they are doing both themselves and the animal a favor in the long run.

In addition to this, some breeders now look to create litters with naturally shorter tails. Some dogs have shorter tails than others. Breeding two of these short-tailed Corgis together would, therefore, increase the likelihood of a shorter tail in the pups. Still, it isn’t necessarily going to be as short as 2 inches, so docking may still be necessary.

How are Corgi’s tails docked?

The procedure for tail docking for Corgis is the same as for other breeds. The procedure is performed when the puppy is less than 14 days old and must be conducted by a veterinarian. This consists of measuring the specified length in which the tail should be cut, in the case of Corgis it is 2 inches. The vet then cuts between the tail vertebrae and places absorbable stitches to help the wound heal.

This procedure is controversial because it is usually performed without anesthesia, which is considered inhumane by many people the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) oppose this procedure and consider it to be unnecessary. In 2007 this practice was banned in Wales and England, except for working dogs, and is also allowed for medical reasons. While in Scotland it is only allowed for medical reasons. Many other European countries have adopted similar laws.

Why is Corgi tail docking so controversial?

The biggest concern with tail docking, regardless of the breed, is that it subjects the animal to unnecessary harm. The idea of docking a tail for an old-fashioned breed standard doesn’t sit well with those getting Corgis as family pets. They see photos of Corgis with tails and realize what their pet is missing out on.

While there is a risk of tail injuries in the case of working dogs, some feel that this argument for tail docking makes no sense for family dogs. Tails are so important in canine communication, a Corgi with no tail has no tail to wag when it is happy to see you. There is also the argument that tails enhance balance, which would surely help any working dog.

Not all Corgis have tails for long.

Most Corgis, whether Pembrokeshire or Cardigan, should have a tail. Many owners of Pembroke Corgis are saddened that they didn’t have a say in the matter of tail docking. Whether or not you believe in docking for health and breed standards, there is that automatic assumption from breeders that the dog shouldn’t have a tail. There is a chance that the laws on this issue will change in the future. But, there is still strong division on the subject.

Related post: Swedish Vallhund: The Wolf Corgi

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