Breeds Related to Corgis

The iconic and adorably squat Welsh Corgi comes in two varieties, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Though differences such as weight and tail length exist between these two breeds, they share a common history as ancient herders. First appearing around 1200 B.C., the Corgi breeds are descendants of Nordic-Spitz-type dogs. Unlike modern breeds, no one recorded the Corgis' exact breed lineage path. However, the Corgis' appearance and body composition makes it the clear relative of several distinct breeds.

  1. Swedish Vallhund

    • Take one look at the Swedish Vallund, literally meaning "Swedish viking dog," and you'll see the obvious relationship between this breed and the modern Corgi. The two breeds have the same short, muscular stature, thick neck and erect ears. Both Swedish Vallhund and Corgis also sport bristly, thick coats of hair that were once a necessity during the frigid Nordic winters. The guarding/herding origins of both breeds make them vocal protectors of their families and territory.

    Pomeranian

    • The toy-sized Pomeranian and the Corgi both originated from Spitz-type dogs, which explains their similarly erect ears and thick coats. Beyond these minor similarities, these breed relatives share few physical traits. The original Pomeranian averaged 30 pounds and was responsible for herding sheep until the late 1800s. During this period European royalty began selectively breeding Pomeranians for small size, creating the 3- to 7-pound lapdog of today.

    Schipperke

    • The Schipperke and Corgi share Nordic-Spitz heritage and exhibit a similar fox-like resemblance. More specifically, the Corgi and Schipperke both credit the development of their breed to Flemish traders and explorers. While the Corgi became a herder, the Schipperke became a trusted canal guard and boat ratter. Both breeds exhibit guarding and herding tendencies that can become problematic without proper training and socialization.

    Norwegian Lundehund

    • One of the world's rarest dog breeds, the Norwegian Lundehund is a Spitz-type dog that shares many physical characteristics with the modern Corgis. The similar traits between the breeds include cone-shaped, erect ears, a gently tapering nose and square head. The Norwegian Lundehund originally hunted puffin nests and possesses superior hunting instincts instead of the herding instincts of the Corgis.