Temperament:
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is highly intelligent, obedient, protective and robust. Steady, loyal and loving, but wary of strangers. They are willing to please. Some Corgi's are extremely active and devoted little dogs, and are usually good with considerate children. They make fine guards, and excellent show and obedience dogs. Cardigans are less sociable and more territorial than Pembroke's. Good with other non-canine animals and with other Corgis, but can be combative with other dogs. Several of these brave dogs have lost their lives defending their homes, as they were too small for the situation. They sometimes attempt to herd people by nipping at their heels, although they can be trained not to do this. The Cardigan is a good alarm barker and some tend to bark a lot. Males can be aggressive with other males, particularly if a bitch in heat is in the vicinity.

Grooming:
The wiry, medium-length water-resistant coat is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. The coat is shed two times per year.

Exercise:
Cardigans must have regular exercise, including a daily, long walk.

Living Condition:
Good for apartment life. They are very active indoors, and will do okay without a yard.

Origin:
The Cardigan and the Pembroke Welsh Corgis have been considered separate breeds for only about 70 years. There are several theories about the origins of the Welsh Corgi. Both Corgis varieties may be descended form Swedish Vallhunds brought to Wales by Vikings in the 800's. Or perhaps the Cardigan is the older variety, brought to Wales by the Celts in about 1200 BC. The name "Corgi" comes from the Celtic word for dog. The breed was mentioned in the Domesday Book (1086) and developed in Cardiganshire Wales. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is an excellent cattle driver, vermin hunter and farm guard. The Corgi drove cattle by barking and nipping at the cattle's heals. His low stature helped him role out of the way when a cow kicked. Corgis still maintain that habit when chasing each other. The Pembroke and Cardigan varieties were freely interbred until the 1930's, after which time breeders tried to accentuate their differences. Today, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is primarily a companion dog.