Corgi Breeder Questions

Both the Pembroke and the Cardigan corgi are small but outgoing dogs that need plenty of exercise in spite of their small stature. A reputable breeder will be more than happy to answer questions a prospective buyer has regarding the individual dogs or the breed itself. The small size of the corgi does not mean it comes without concerns.

  1. Parents

    • The personality of the parents helps to shape that of the pups -- and a corgi should be eager to meet new people.

      A prospective corgi buyer should always ask to see the parents of the dog he's looking to buy. At least one of the puppy's parents should be on the premises, and the breeder should not hesitate to show prospective puppy owners the mother, father or both parents. If you're considering one, look for the health and disposition of the dog. A corgi should be outgoing, bold and friendly. It shouldn't be timid around strangers. They should also look healthy and well-formed.

    Health of the Family Line

    • A healthy, genetically sound corgi can live up to 15 years.

      Both the Pembroke and Cardigan corgi is prone to similar health issues and asking a breeder about the background of not only the parents but also the grandparents of the dog will help indicate if there is a significant chance a puppy will inherit a genetic condition.

      Some of the common ailments of a corgi that you should be inquire about include hip dysplasia as well as eye and vision problems. Many breeders have their dogs genetically tested for markers indicating the likelihood of developing these diseases and should have paperwork available showing a negative result. Corgis can also be prone to developing various forms of cancer, which may also show up in an examination of the family line.

    Breed and Puppy Disposition

    • A bonded pair of siblings may be happier together than apart.

      Doing research on a breed before committing to a puppy is a must, but within each breed there's the possibility for variation. Corgis are herding dogs that require a lot of exercise and are characteristically alert, affectionate and friendly. Not all puppies are the same, however, and a breeder should be asked about the temperament of the puppies in the litter. Some may be more outgoing or curious than others, while some might be more content to sit on the couch with their owner. If the puppy is being brought into a home where there are animals or children present, the buyer should ask about the puppy's social skills. Corgis have been bred to be herding dogs, and this tendency may be stronger with some puppies than others. Identifying the puppy's personality might prevent children from being herded through the house.

    Breeder Background

    • The breeder's background can also provide insight into the puppy. All the research in the world cannot take the place of years of hands-on experience, especially when it comes to working with animals that have a wide range of personalities. Corgis are incredibly intelligent dogs and getting some insight into the corgi's personality the breeder has come across can be valuable to a new owner. The breeder may be able to give training tips on dealing with the corgi's natural herding instinct, offer solutions for getting the short-legged dog in and out of a car, and even some tips of making toys for this dog breed.