For first-time owners, it is better to focus on choosing a dog breed that is inherently more likely to adapt to them than others.
Corgis are known to be one of the most loveable dog breeds that shower their owners with endless affection and attention.
That and their minimalistic grooming needs make them easy-to-keep pets.
Dog breeds can be divided into best and worst for first-time owners on the basis of their qualities. Labrador retrievers, Poodles, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Corgis, and Yorkshire terriers are just a few of the breeds that are well-suited to being first-time pets. While on the other hand, dogs like Akitas, Alaskan Malamute, Bloodhounds, German Shepherds, Dalmatians, Rottweilers, Siberian Husky, Dobermans, and Beagles are considered the least suitable dogs for first-time owners.
Read also: Are Corgis lap dogs?
Are Corgis Good First Dogs? Yes, They Are! And Here’s Why
By now you might as well have guessed it, Corgis are one of the cutest, most docile, and owner-friendly breeds.
Let’s dive into all those characteristics that make them an excellent breed for novice owners.
1. Apartment-friendly dog
Score: 4/5
Just as humans, not all dogs adjust well to apartment living. Some are naturally inclined to like enclosed spaces while others are more exploratory.
Fortunately for you as a first time Corgi owner, Corgis don’t demand a bigger mansion, they will adjust happily to apartment living.
Being small also means they don’t take up much space for themselves. They will sleep happily in a comfortable crate, or in a little shelter that you make for them.
2. Highly Sensitive
Score: 4/5
Their cuteness doesn’t mean that they will tolerate much noise.
This makes them a bad choice for noisy households with lots of activities and events.
The same is the case with any reproval. Corgis might find your reprimand to be too much.
I had seen Corgis lose their confidence when they had to face any backlash for something they did.
You have to be extra careful in how you deal with their misbehaving.
3. Cannot Tolerate Isolation
Score: 3/5
Corgis find their happiness in being surrounded by family. That means when left alone, they can get fidgety.
Having someone to look after them once you leave for work is a great help otherwise they might start barking or howling when left alone at home.
Some lucky ones get to take their pooch with them to the workplace, I envy them.
4. Very Friendly
Score: 4/5
Corgis are known for their warmth and amiability. They will be the best companions for you and your family, equally happy and sad when you are.
Not just that, they will welcome your friends and guests with open arms. They are even welcoming towards strangers.
When it comes to other dogs, they may show some attitude and be non-tolerant to their presence at first. But once they spend a little time with them, Corgis will also show affection to them.
5. Undemanding Training
Score: 5/5
Due to their high intelligence, Corgis are very easy to train.
You won’t need to be too patient for them to learn new things. Their sociability allows them to be trained anywhere, whether it’s in your backyard or a public park.
Having a low prey drive also means that they won’t be distracted by the outside environment as well.
If you want to train your Corgi not to bark here’s something interesting for you: https://doggomag.com/best-bark-collar-for-corgi/
6. Considerable Grooming Needs
Score: 3/5
You may have a hard time tending to their grooming needs.
Corgis shed a lot, and by a lot, I really mean a lot. They have the potential to drive you crazy given you have an OCD for cleanliness otherwise they won’t.
Just keep this in mind, especially in summers when they shed more than often, and you will not have a hard time preening them.
7. High Physical Demands
Score: 4/5
Don’t go for their small size, they are pretty enthusiastic when it comes to playtime. They have a very high energy level.
You will need to take them out regularly on walks and let them have their time. If you don’t then they will spend their energy at home barking or playing with the things you don’t want them to.
This is a good thing for most dog owners who need a companion every time they want to go out for strolls or have some outdoor activity.
8. Health and Well-being
Score: 3/5
Genetic diseases, especially hip dysplasia, and spine abnormalities run in many Corgi lineages. Dogs from certified breeders are least likely to face these problems.
That doesn’t mean that your dog will be immune from seasonal ailments.
Coming to seasonal illnesses, their double-coat means you will have to take good care of their health, especially in the summertime.
Keep them indoors during the daytime. You may also wish to groom their hair when it gets too hot.
Here’s a video where a Corgi owner tells you about the experience of owning one!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some faqs that you need to know about Corgis behaviors and grooming.
Are Corgis high maintenance?
Corgis are pretty low maintenance when it comes to their lifestyle.
They adapt well to small spaces and adjust happily to the life of apartments.
They are easy to train and are quick to learn the cleanliness demands of their owners.
One thing to keep in mind is their double coat because it makes them shed a lot. You may find it hard at times to clean up after them. Other than that, they don’t have extravagant needs.
Do Corgis bark a lot?
Corgis bark a lot. This can be a problem for older people who want a peaceful pup or if the neighborhood doesn’t allow such pets.
But it also depends on how you train them and how well-adjusted they are to their surroundings after that. Some dogs get angry and start barking when they think you aren’t fulfilling their needs like sleep and food.
If you keep them well, it is less likely that they will howl or bark much.
Wrapping Up
Corgi is an excellent breed for novice owners. Their affection for their owners, friendliness and low maintenance make them one of the best choices.
As with every dog you may need to keep certain things in mind.
They are not fond of being alone. Someone should be present at most times to cater to them otherwise they develop separation-related anxiety.
Their high shedding means you have to be extra vigilant to clean their shed fur.
Overall, they are a very good choice for newbies to adopt and you’ll love them almost instantly.
