Buying a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) Puppy

What to expect from a breeder who puts Health, Welfare and Temperament first.

Avoid a puppy from parents with very long backs and very short legs, as dogs with extreme conformation may be at greater risk of health problems.

Essential Documents

  1. Heath Certificates (both parents)
  2. Signed AWF Puppy Contract
  3. KC Registration Certificate (if applicable)
  4. Microchip Registration Certificate
  5. Temporary Pet Health Insurance
  6. Vaccination Certificate

A good breeder will:

  1. have socialised and habituated the puppy
  2. provide a supply of food
  3. provide a blanket smellng of Mum
  4. follow the Code of Practice for Dog Breeding

Official Health Schemes

  • BVA/KC screening for eye disease. DBRG recommends that all dogs should be visually examined by an ophthalmologist before breeding
    (includes checks for multiple inherited diseases).

DNA Tests Relevant to Breed

  • DM (degenerative myelopathy)

Genetic laboratories offer tests for other rare inherited diseases in Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Brief explanations and other diseases that may be more common in the breed – if in doubt then consult your vet for guidance

Official Health Schemes

The BVA/KC eye testing scheme is available for all breeds, and checks for many inherited abnormalities that can cause progressive blindness or pain 

DNA Tests Relevant to Breed

  • Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) – most Pembroke Corgis probably have this gene, which contributes to their short legs but increases their risk of spinal disc disease (IVDD).
  • DM – degenerative myelopathy – progressive weakness of back legs.

Other Problems

  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
    – degeneration of spinal discs and spinal cord compression, pain, possible paralysis. More likely in dogs with chondrodystrophy.
  • Urolithiasis
    (bladder stones)

Note

There are two separate breeds of Welsh Corgi. This information refers to Pembroke Welsh Corgis, which are much more common. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a rare breed. Both types of Corgi are susceptible to some of the same diseases, particularly spinal problems, but there are also differences between them – see this Kennel Club page for more information on diseases in Cardigans.

Return to Breed Health Information List