Corgis are distinctive dogs, and most people easily recognize this breed’s short legs, long body, triangle ears, and bright, friendly expression. Corgis are known for being playful and affectionate, yet they have an independent streak that gives them big personalities. For all of these reasons, Corgis often find their place as beloved family dogs.
So, how long can you expect your Corgi companion to be by your side? We’ll cover all the factors that impact a Corgi lifespan and offer seven top tips to encourage your dog to live longer.
What Is the Corgi’s Average Lifespan?
Smaller dogs tend to live longer lives than large dogs, and a Corgi tends to range in the small to medium-sized dog category. These dogs will live for an average of between 12 and 15 years, though genetic issues, health complications, and the way they live their lives will significantly contribute to your dog’s expected lifespan.
Dogs that lead healthy lifestyles and have fewer genetic issues or illness complications tend to live longer than others.
Common Health Complications for Corgis
Certain dog breeds are prone to specific health problems or genetic complications. Corgis are not exempt from this, and there are certain types of health issues you should keep an eye out for.
Common health complications for Corgis include:
Hip Dysplasia – Hip dysplasia in dogs is a developmental disease that impacts how the ball and socket hip joint fits together and functions. Symptoms include joint pain and mobility issues. Surgical correction is often necessary.
Von Willebrand’s Disease – This is an inherited disease that causes trouble with blood clotting. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are more prone to it than some other dog breeds. You can get a genetic test to see if your Corgi has it.
Degenerative Myelopathy – This is a spinal disorder that can lead to weakness and eventually paralysis in Corgis.
Cataracts – Corgis are prone to cataracts, and a vet may need to perform surgery if your dog’s vision is severely impaired.
Intervertebral Disk Disease (IVDD) – This occurs when a spinal disc bulges and affects the spinal cord. It can cause weakness and paralysis. Because of their long backs and short legs, Corgis are more likely to develop IVDD than some other dogs.
Epilepsy – Pembroke Welsh Corgis are prone to seizures, and they may need regular medication to control their epilepsy.
Obesity – Corgis like people food and they are very convincing beggars! This can lead to excessive weight gain. Corgi parents should stick to a vet-recommended diet and avoid table scraps to prevent obesity from affecting their lifespan and overall health.
Taking time to monitor your dog’s behavior and engage in preventative healthcare for these specific health problems can help your dog live a healthier, longer life.
Tips to Help Your Corgi Live Longer
The following tips are essential when it comes to helping your corgi live longer and ensuring that your dog is healthy and happy throughout their life.
Find a Trustworthy Breeder
While you may be able to adopt a Corgi from a shelter, these dogs typically need to be purchased from a breeder. As you look into different breeders, it’s important to select a breeder who treats their dogs responsibly and engages in ethical breeding practices. Backyard breeders and breeders that are not putting the health of their dogs first may encourage poor breeding practices that can lead to a number of genetic and health complications for the Corgi puppies
Corgis that are born to responsible breeders will have a relatively clean bill of health and a decent start at life, while those dogs that are born to unethical breeders may struggle with health issues throughout their lives, leading to a shorter lifespan.
To make sure that a breeder is ethical and responsible, you can ask to tour the facility, speak with them about the breed, and ask to see any applicable licenses or certifications. Breeders who refuse to let you see where the puppies and dogs are kept, those who have no knowledge of the breed, and those who act suspicious should be avoided.
Keep Your Corgi Active
Even though Corgis have shorter legs, these dogs are playful, and they need lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Regular exercise for your Corgi can include a couple of lengthy walks each day and at least an hour of dedicated playtime.
All of this exercise will keep your dog physically stimulated and help them fight any weight gain, which can lead to serious complications and a shorter lifespan for this dog breed.
Monitor Your Corgi’s Diet
Corgis are a breed that is prone to obesity, something that can be especially detrimental considering their shorter legs and long backs. Excess weight can lead to significant joint issues and pain in your dog, and this may shorten their lifespan. Keeping an eye on your dog’s diet and nutrition is essential to ensuring they get the calories and nutrients they need without overeating.
You should refrain from feeding your Corgi human food, and take note of the caloric content of any food you feed them. If your corgi is already struggling with their weight, they may need to be put on a special diet at your vet’s recommendation.
Give Your Pup Puzzles and Other Mental Activities
Every dog needs mental stimulation in addition to physical stimulation, and keeping your Corgi’s mind active can help them lead a longer and happier life.
Puzzle toys, playtime, and adventures when your dog is feeling up to it can help encourage them to stay mentally stimulated. You can also work on training with your dog to keep their mind focused and to build a bond between the both of you.
Don’t Neglect Grooming and Dental Needs
Grooming and dental care are important parts of caring for your Corgi, and these things can have an impact on your dog’s health. Grooming keeps your Corgi’s fur looking nice, but it also allows you to check their skin for any signs of allergies, itchiness, or pain.
Furthermore, dental care is connected to the health of the entire body, and making sure your dog has clean, healthy teeth helps to stop gum disease and pain that can impact your dog’s life. Dental care is particularly vital to making sure your dog lives a long, healthy life.
Spay or Neuter Your Dog
Not only is spaying and neutering dogs essential when it comes to controlling the overpopulation of animals, but spaying or neutering can help your Corgi live a longer, happier life.
Dogs that have been spayed or neutered live longer than those that haven’t been spayed or neutered, and they have a lower risk of certain diseases and illnesses.
Always Practice Preventative Healthcare
With Corgis, much of the preventative healthcare you can engage in is designed to help with their joints and spine. The short-legged and long body of this dog can lead to spinal issues, joint pain, and mobility problems as your Corgi ages. Making home modifications like adding dog ramps to stairs and furniture, installing non-slip carpets and stair treads, or offering supportive dog beds can help provide your dog with comfort and help prevent injuries.
You should also be taking your Corgi to the vet on a routine basis about once a year for check-ups, and twice a year when your dog starts to become senior-age. Your vet can help you figure out the best preventative care and diet to keep your dog live for a long time.
When Should I Take My Corgi to the Vet?
While you should be taking your Corgi to the vet for routine visits, there are a few situations where you may need to seek out immediate medical care to ensure your dog stays healthy.
The following signs and symptoms indicate that you need veterinary care for your Corgi as soon as possible:
- Unexplained or sudden lethargy
- Prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite
- Inability to move or signs of pain when moving
- Seizures or unconsciousness
- Trouble breathing
- Inability to urinate or otherwise use the bathroom
- Swollen or tender abdomen
- Bleeding
If your regular vet is not available, take your Corgi to the closest emergency vet as soon as possible to receive care.
Caring For Your Corgi
As you care for your beloved Corgi, it’s important to keep in mind how important proper diet, exercise, and mental stimulation are to your Corgi’s lifespan and overall health.
Providing your dog with proper care and keeping an eye out for health problems can help you catch problems before they become more serious. Being proactive about your Corgi’s physical and mental wellbeing can help ensure they’ll be by your side for many happy years.
Sources:
Author Weir, Malcolm, DVM, MSc, MPH, “Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs”, VCA Hospitals, 2023, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/degenerative-myelopathy-in-dogs
Author Morrison J, Barri, DVM, “IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) in Dogs”, PetMD, December 6. 2022, https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_intervertebral_disc_disease
Authors Hoffman JM, Creevy KE, Promislow DE. “Reproductive capability is associated with lifespan and cause of death in companion dogs.” PLoS One. 2013 Apr 17;8(4):e61082. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0061082.
