| Height | 10.5-12.5 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 30-38 pounds (male), 25-34 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Affectionate / Smart [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | Wales [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 65 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Cardigan is noted for being a very adaptable dog. If you want to hike and go on adventures, they are all for that. Or if you want to watch TV and eat popcorn, no problem'¿the Cardigan is there for you. [1]
Grooming
A good brushing at least once a week should keep the Cardigan's coat healthy and looking its best. Keeping the hair trimmed on the bottom of the feet helps to reduce the amount of dirt that an animal can bring into the house every day. The nails should be kept trimmed as well. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Cardigan is in general a very healthy breed, and responsible breeders will screen their stock for health conditions such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and degenerative myelopathy. And as with any 'long and low' canine, one must be cognizant of potential back issues. Avoid letting the Cardigan jump down off the bed or couch, and stairs can also be a hazard. At the first sign of any distress or discomfort, see the vet right away. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Degenerative Myelopathy (Common Variant) (DM) - DNA Test, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Rod-Cone Dysplasia 3 (PRA-rcd3) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Cardigan Welsh Corgi in 1935. [1]
- It ranked No. 65 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 76 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Cardigan, Cardi.” [1]
- The AKC lists Wales as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Degenerative Myelopathy (Common Variant) (DM) - DNA Test. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 4/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 5/5
Common questions
How long do Cardigan Welsh Corgis live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Cardigan Welsh Corgi get?
AKC breed information lists height 10.5-12.5 inches and weight 30-38 pounds (male), 25-34 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.