Dogs & Puppies – Rescue Informer

Dogs are some of the most popular adoptable animals in the U.S. If you're considering welcoming a new canine addition into your home, it's time to decide which breed of dog to adopt. (We have a suggestion, adopt a Corgi.) Larger dogs are fun and often need a lot of space. Smaller dogs don’t always work well in a busy household with small children. Mid-sized breeds like a Corgi can give you the best of both sizes. As with any breed, when you adopt a corgi, it’s important to learn all you can before bringing the dog home. And, to ensure that it’s really the ideal breed for you. A Brief Introduction To Corgis Corgis are short and stocky herding dogs. While they look as though they may not have the ability to move quickly, they can be quite athletic and energetic. Although many of the characteristics are similar among Corgis, there are two types of Corgis: Pembroke Welsh and Cardigan Welsh. It’s not uncommon to come across a mixed breed Corgi as well. While the two breeds are quite similar, we will give you a brief introduction to both. When looking at Corgis for adoption, the specific breed (Pembroke or Cardigan) is often not mentioned or is unknown. We are giving you a general overview of each breed. However, the corgi that you adopt may be a little different than as we describe. Pembroke Welsh Corgi The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is originally from South Wales and has a long history as a herding dog. While Corgis are still used for herding, many of the today’s Corgis are house dogs. These dogs are only about 10 to 12 inches in height. But, they are able to get around with relative ease and are strong and athletic. Pembrokes have long and coarse coats that come in a variety of colors such as red, sable, fawn, black, and tan. Their undercoats are weather-resistant, and they shed often. They also have short tails which are sometimes docked for appearance. A Pembroke’s face is best described as “foxy and interested.” With a happy and well-balanced temperament, Pembroke Corgis do well with many types of households. Like most dogs with herding tendencies, the Pembroke is happiest when active and is given “tasks.” You don’t need to live on a farm and raise livestock to adopt a Corgi but be prepared to go on several walks, visits to the dog park, and keeping your dog busy. The Pembroke is a good family dog and does well with other dogs, but like many different dog breeds, it’s best to supervise your dog at all times. Pembroke Corgis are smart, alert, bold, and loving and respond positively to training. Pembrokes may bark, but it all depends on the individual dog. Although Pembroke Corgis are prone to health problems, if you keep them healthy and provide excellent care, an adult male may weigh up to 30 pounds while an adult female weighs slightly less at 28 pounds. A Pembroke Corgi can live up to around 13 years, so like all dogs, you need to be prepared for a long-term commitment. Cardigan Welsh Corgi Like the Pembrokes, Cardigan Welsh Corgis have a long history as herding dogs and are the older of the two breeds. While it’s not uncommon to spot a Cardigan Corgi on a farm and herding livestock, they are also common as a house dog. Slightly taller and heavier than the Pembroke, the Cardigan is usually 10.5 to 12.5 inches tall and adult males can weigh between 30 and 38 pounds while adult females weigh between 25 and 34 pounds. Similar to the Pembroke breed, a Cardigan Corgi, if properly cared, may live up to 15 years. This breed is intelligent, active, high-energy, and thrive when they are given a mental and physical challenge. If you cannot put in the time and energy that is recommended for this breed to stay healthy, you may want to consider adopting a different breed of dog. Cardigan Corgis have similar coats like the Pembroke (a double coat which consists of an outer coat and downy undercoat), and they require frequent brushing; they will also shed quite a bit. Their coats come in a variety of colors which include red, black, and blue merle. Although both Corgis share similar facial and body features, Cardigans have a long tail. Caring For Your Corgi Like other breeds of dog, Corgis benefit from daily exercise, lots of attention, a healthy diet, and plenty of fresh water on hand. Before you adopt a Corgi, you may want to talk to a veterinarian about any concerns you may have and ask him or her if there are special things you need to think about before considering a Corgi adoption. Many Corgis, who are up for adoption, may be adults and have an unknown history prior to living in an animal shelter. Remember, these dogs are very smart and may respond well to training, but patience, consistency, and praise are essential. Before you adopt a Pembroke or Cardigan Corgi, sit down and make a pro and cons list. If you have a family, make your decision to adopt a family discussion. All dogs require and deserve love and attention, and since Corgis are high energy, they may require even more time and attention. If you and your family are too busy or are not willing to go on daily walks or take a visit to the dog park, it may not be an ideal time to adopt a dog and especially a Corgi. It’s also a good idea to discuss your expectations as a family and divide up the dog care evenly. If you have small children, a dog is a great pet for teaching responsibility, but it’s also important to teach your children how to respect a dog and its space. Even if the Corgi you are considering is good with children, don’t let your children roughhouse with it. Health Issues To Consider Some dog breeds are prone to more health issues than others. Remember, if you adopt a breed that is susceptible to serious health problems it doesn’t mean that your dog will automatically have issues. It’s best to be aware so that you know what to look for and provide preventative care. Here are some of the diseases and health conditions that are prominent in Corgis. Regularly scheduled visits with a veterinarian, paying attention to any physical or behavioral changes, and spaying or neutering your Corgi can help keep it healthy. Back Problems Due to their long bodies and short legs, back problems like Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is common in Corgis. While they are active dogs, their back problems can limit their mobility. Pay attention to any changes in daily activities. Obesity Although Corgis are a medium-sized breed, their unique stature makes them more prone to gaining weight. Too much weight can put pressure on their joints and may result in other serious health problems. Limiting treats and sticking to a strict diet and exercise routine can help. Eye Injuries Since Corgi eyes bulge a little more than other breeds, they are more prone to injury. Avoid letting your dog ride with its head out the window and monitor the eyes for any debris or dirt. Other health issues may include infections, blood disorders, dental disease, cancer, parasites, and kidney stones. Talk to your veterinarian and set up a regular check-up schedule. If you are concerned about some of the health issues that come with purebreds, you may want to check out mixed Corgis. Such as a Corgi Husky mix at an adoption event. Mixed breeds don’t always mean that the dog will have fewer health problems. In some cases, there may be different health risks. Visiting Adoptable Corgis If there’s a Welsh Corgi adoption in your area, this is a great opportunity to interact with Corgis. That will help determine if the breed is right for you. It’s important to keep in mind that some Corgis, who are up for adoption, may not have a lot of socialization. Or, they may have health problems due to their previous owners. Before you bring a Corgi home, find out as much information as you can about the dog. And, be prepared to discover more things about your Corgi as it settles into your home. Dogs that are up for adoption often have a rocky past. They are in need of a home that is stable and committed to offering them the best life possible. While adopting a Corgi can make your life better, don’t adopt until you’re positive that you can give it the care it needs and deserves. [amazon bestseller="dog bed" items="3"]