Top Tips for Choosing a Corgi Puppy: What to Look For

Section 1: Types

When it comes to Corgis, there are two distinct varieties to consider. The most commonly encountered is the Pembrokeshire Welsh Corgi. The other type is the Cardigan and Corgi, which is a crucial distinction to make, as despite both being called Corgis, they exhibit significant differences in temperament, appearance, and coloration. It's important to understand which type resonates more with your preferences, as these differences can be quite profound. For instance, the Pembrokeshire Corgi might be more aligned with the aesthetic preferences of many, offering a cute and affordable option with a look that often appeals to local tastes.

Section 2: Coat Colors

Here are the common coat colors found in Corgis: yellow and white, yellow and black, black and white, red, cream, and twotone.

Yellow and White: The most likely gene combination, and the most common color, with nothing particularly unique to note.

Yellow and Black: The head is predominantly yellow, with the body resembling a dog wearing a black waistcoat, yellow legs, and a black line from the eye to the ear. Puppies may appear darker due to incomplete shedding.

Black and White: The head is black with distinct features, including two thick yellow lines above the eyes similar to eyebrows. Most of the black coloration is found on the legs of adult dogs.

Red: Also known as red, this color has two and threetone variations, with the tricolor simply having less black.

Cream: A light yellow color, not white, cream is not a separate color category but rather a description of the base yellow fur being lighter.

Black and White: The yellow fur is sparse, and it's not truly black and white. A more academic and formal description of the color would be as follows.

Section 3: Temperament

Every puppy has its own unique personality, and whether you prefer a calm or an energetic companion, the differences can be quite striking. However, it can be challenging to discern a puppy's temperament at a young age. Even Corgis with vastly different personalities can have some endearing but stubborn habits that require training. So, how can you get a sense of a puppy's character during your first meeting?

One method to try is to pick up the dog, sit down, and turn it over so it's bellyup with its back to you. Observe the dog's reaction to this position. Does it flip over immediately, wait a bit, or not flip over at all?

Flips over immediately: This suggests a dog that may have its own ideas and might be harder to train.

Waits a bit before flipping over: This indicates a thinker, a dog that weighs its options, which can be clever and possibly mischievous but less likely to flip over without prompting.

Does not flip over: This is a sign of a dog that is easier to train, even if it occasionally gets into mischief, and is generally easier to manage.

Tip: For more information about Corgis, consider reading our article on "How to Deworm a Corgi" for a deeper understanding.