Are Corgis Good Family Dogs? Kids, Pets and Size

Corgis are among the most popular family dogs, and for good reason. Here is what I tell families about temperament, kids and pets, and how big a corgi really gets.

Temperament

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are smart, active herders that are affectionate and loyal. They love to be with their people. Our dogs are described as playful, gentle, laid back and super sweet, and each has its own personality.

Kids

Corgis can be wonderful with children when raised and socialized well. They are herders, so they may try to herd small kids by nipping at heels. Teach children to be calm and gentle, and redirect the dog with toys and training.

Cats and other dogs

Our puppies are socialized with adult dogs and cats from an early age, so they go home confident around other animals. Introduce new pets gradually and supervise early meetings.

Size and exercise

Females are 26 to 28 lbs full grown and males 28 to 32 lbs. They need daily walks and play, and they thrive on activity. A bored corgi can bark or chew, so give them jobs and puzzle toys.

Barking and training

Corgis are alert and may bark to tell you things. Early training and exercise keep it manageable. They are intelligent and eager to please, so positive training works well. Every puppy comes with the AKC GoodDog! Helpline for live trainer support.

How do you teach children to treat a corgi?

Show kids how to pet gently, never pull ears or tails, and leave the dog alone while it is eating or sleeping. Teach them to ask before picking up a puppy, and to sit on the floor when holding one. Short legs and long backs mean falls and rough handling can cause injuries.

Supervision matters most in the first months, for the child and the puppy.

What daily routine do corgis love?

Corgis do well with predictable routines: a morning walk, mealtimes, play sessions, training games and quiet time with family. Puzzle feeders and simple tricks provide mental work. Because they are herders, games like fetch and find-it are a great outlet.

A tired corgi is a happy corgi.

Is a corgi right for a first-time owner?

Yes, if you are ready for exercise, training and grooming. Corgis are intelligent and eager to please, but they can be stubborn and loud when bored. Starting early, being consistent and using positive reinforcement go a long way.

Every puppy comes with the AKC GoodDog! Helpline. Request the Puppy Questionnaire to start the conversation.

How do corgis handle being alone?

Corgis are people dogs and prefer company. If you work away from home, plan for exercise before and after, a midday visit if you can and enrichment toys. Crate training helps many dogs feel secure while you are out.

Do not leave a corgi alone for very long stretches, especially a young puppy.

How do corgis handle apartments and small homes?

Many corgis live happily in apartments when they get daily walks, play and training. Because they can be vocal, teach a quiet cue early and be considerate of neighbors. Provide a yard or a reliable potty schedule for puppies.

Size is a plus: females are 26 to 28 lbs full grown and males 28 to 32 lbs.

What do our families say?

Families who have brought home our puppies describe them as happy, healthy and well socialized. One reviewer wrote that her dog is the epitome of a happy, healthy, beautiful dog, and another noted that her puppy was clearly socialized and handled after just three days at home. You can read their words on our Home page.

What does a typical corgi day look like?

A morning walk, breakfast, a nap, play time in the afternoon, training games, dinner and a long evening snuggle is a perfect corgi day. They love routine and being near their family, and they will follow you from room to room.

Expect a loyal shadow.

How do you manage herding behavior?

Herding is natural. Redirect nipping at heels with a toy or a cue like sit. Teach kids to stand still when the dog herds. Games such as fetch and find-it give the dog a job.

Early socialization and training make herding easy to manage.

What should you ask a breeder about temperament?

Ask about the parents' personalities, how puppies are raised and what the breeder looks for in a family match. A good breeder knows each puppy and recommends the right one for you. I describe each pup's personality as the litter grows, so you can choose with confidence.

Is a corgi right for your family?

If you can offer time, exercise and consistent training, a corgi can be a joyful family member. Our questionnaire helps match you with the right puppy. Call or text (660) 234-5656, or visit the Puppies page.