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.
What about Corgis? Are they good first dogs? Yes, they are. They 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 it 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 what to know before getting a Corgi:
1. Apartment-friendly dog
Score: 4/5
Just like 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 – Are Corgis hard to train?
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.
Before caring for Corgis, you should know that they 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
Owning a Corgi from an irresponsible breeder means inviting 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.
How to take care of a Corgi?
Caring for a Corgi encompasses various essential aspects, including their diet, exercise routine, grooming, training, and healthcare.
1. Diet
To keep your Corgi healthy, managing their diet is vital. Begin with top-quality puppy food during their early years, and gradually shift to adult dog food as they mature.
Pay attention to portion sizes to prevent overfeeding since Corgis tend to pack on pounds. Be mindful of the food you choose, opting for a well-balanced diet that may include raw or high-quality kibble. Seeking advice from your vet for a tailored dietary plan for your Corgi is always advisable.
2. Exercise
Corgis are high-energy companions, craving regular physical activity and mental engagement. Bred as herding dogs, they relish games like fetch, structured walks, and interactive toys.
Keep their minds agile with mental exercises such as treat puzzles and obedience training. Be prepared to commit to daily exercise to ensure your Corgi remains content and in good shape.
3. Training
Corgis are undeniably clever but sometimes a touch stubborn. Consistent training is a must to instill good behavior and obedience. Focus on fundamental commands, leash etiquette, and recall.
Employ positive reinforcement techniques and reward-based training to motivate your Corgi.
4. Grooming
Regular grooming is essential for Corgis with their double coat and considerable shedding. Brush your Corgi at least once a week to manage the shedding. Baths should be infrequent, around once a month, unless they get remarkably filthy.
Trimming their nails is crucial to prevent potential joint and back problems. Avoid the temptation to shave your Corgi since their double coat serves as insulation.
5. Healthcare
Consistent vet check-ups are essential for keeping tabs on your Corgi’s well-being and addressing any potential issues promptly.
Corgis are susceptible to back problems due to their distinctive physique, making it crucial to avoid activities that might strain their backs, like leaping from elevated surfaces. Having pet insurance can provide financial support in case unexpected health problems arise.
6. Stairs and Accessibility
Given their elongated backs, it’s wise to provide stairs or ramps to assist your Corgi in reaching high furniture and beds. This precaution helps mitigate the risk of injuries and back strain.
Corgi care involves offering a well-rounded diet, consistent exercise, proper grooming, reliable training, and access to quality healthcare. Recognizing their unique physical attributes and specific requirements is the key to ensuring their happiness and well-being.
Remember that each Corgi is an individual, and their needs may differ, so tailor your care to their particular preferences and necessities.
Here’s a video where a Corgi owner tells you more 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.
Why Are Corgis So Stubborn?
Corgis, despite their suitability for first-time owners, are independent thinkers. They can turn stubborn at any given time if you’re not accommodating enough. Listen to their needs and focus on their training to keep them calm and collected, ready to listen to you.
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.
