Corgi: The Queenly Breed

Should you shave your beautiful fluffy pet? Take it from someone who made that mistake. No!

1. Shaving a corgi will forever change the texture of their coat. It will never go back to its original softness.
2. Their coloring will be changed. The groomer even had me sign a disclosure acknowledging that my dog's markings would come in differently.
3. Your corgi will be at risk for getting a sunburn. With the skin exposed, the scorching sun can be a hazard.
3. They will TEMPORARILY shed less, but very quickly you will start to find short hairs everywhere.

So, if I could do it all over again I would never have shaved my sweet girl. However, to be fair I will list the advantages:

1. Your dog will be cooler in warm weather (and I live in Texas!)
2. They look adorable like little piglets!

1. The Cardigan is larger with larger rounded ears.
2. The Pembroke has a docked or natural bobbed tail.
3. Cardigans have fewer documented health issues and have a slightly longer life expectancy. (See the health section for more details)

Both breeds come in a variety of different colors.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a typical life expectancy of 12-14 years.

They should be carefully monitored for good health, particularly in the following areas:

1. Spinal problems. The length of a corgi spine can cause trouble in later years. Corgis should not be allowed to jump from furniture, as the impact of landing can damage their backs.
2. Arthritis. Watch out for this as it can result from spinal issues or obesity.
3. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy. This causes muscle weakness and lack of coordination.
4. Obesity. Corgis are prone to gaining weight easily and this can lead to other health problems.

Exercising your Corgi regularly to prevent obesity and other health issues is key in lengthening your pet's life span.

Ever since I first laid eyes on a Corgi, I knew I had to get one. So six years ago when I saw the ad in the newspaper: Rescue Operation Closing, All Dogs Must Go! Goldens, Labs, Corgis, etc., I jumped at the opportunity. Her name...Corky. Kind of cheesy, right? Well, she was 5 years old and used to it so the name had to stay. That's not to say that she doesn't have nicknames (Princess PrettyBottom being my favorite), but Corky is what sends her ears up at attention. She is quite the little troublemaker, (always barking at other dogs through the back fence) but seeing her when I get home is my favorite part of the day!