Smooth Collie vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison

Smooth Collie vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed ComparisonBoth Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Smooth Collie are originated from United Kingdom. Cardigan Welsh Corgi may grow 23 cm / 9 inches shorter than Smooth Collie. Cardigan Welsh Corgi may weigh 16 kg / 35 pounds lesser than Smooth Collie. Both Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Smooth Collie has same life span. Cardigan Welsh Corgi may have less litter size than Smooth Collie. Cardigan Welsh Corgi requires Low Maintenance. But Smooth Collie requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
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United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Height Male:
25 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
51 - 56 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
25 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
51 - 56 cm
20 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
11 - 14 kg
24 - 31 pounds
18 - 30 kg
39 - 67 pounds
Weight Female:
9 - 14 kg
19 - 31 pounds
18 - 30 kg
39 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
8 - 12
Size:
Small
Medium
Other Names:
Cardigan, Cardi
Collie
Colors Available:
Red, brindle, black, black and tan, brindle and black
Light gold, deep mahogany and grey, tricolour of white, black, tan
Coat:
Short and dense
Short, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

cardigan welsh corgiThe Cardigan Welsh Corgi, named after Cardiganshire, Wales, is an ancient breed, brought to Wales by the Celts about 3,000 years ago.

Small but tough, the Cardigan used to take part in cattle drives and his duties extended to protecting them at night.

The first pair of breeding Cardigans arrived in the United States in June 1931. The AKC granted full recognition to the breed four years later.The Cardi, as the breed is commonly called, was developed as an all-around farm dog in Wales. It is believed to be a descendant of the Pomeranian, Schipperkes, Keeshond and Swedish Valhund.

The Cardigan and the Pembroke Welsh corgis were separated officially into different breeds in the early 1930s. AKC recognition came in 1935.

smooth collieWhen you see the Smooth Collie you just assume that you’re looking at a long-haired Lassie-type Collie that was sent to the groomers.

The Smooth Collie has always been used for herding purposes and is a short haired version of the Rough Collie. The early history of this dog is unknown and there are quite a few stories surrounding its history.

It seems as though the dog’s history started during the reign of Queen Victoria who is believed to have owned these dogs.

In some countries it is thought that the smooth- and rough collie are one and the same while in other countries they are classified as separate breeds. The dog hails from the United Kingdom and they classify the Smooth Collie as a separate breed from the Rough Collie.

Description

cardigan welsh corgi puppy - descriptionThe long-shaped Cardiganshire Welsh Corgi is also nicknamed the ‘yard-long dog’ in Wales. Don’t be fooled by this low-to-the-ground dog, because when you look at him he isn’t a small dog at all, looking almost like a German shepherd with short legs, upright ears and a long, bushy tail.This is unlike the Pembroke Welsh Corgi whose tail is traditionally docked.

The Cardi stands around 270 to 330mm tall at the withers and weighs between 11 to 17kg. With those short legs he can gather up quite a speed as well. The dog has a double coat in fawn, red, black and with the outer coat being of medium length and quite harsh to the touch. You can also find some white on the neck, chest as well as on the legs.

Temperament:

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is full of spirit and makes a fantastic companion for someone looking for a fun-loving, devoted friend. He is an easy going dog, making a wonderful pet, while being reserved with strangers. He isn’t a tall dog but he will guard the family too. He is good with children in the family and even with other pets, provided he is trained and socialized.

smooth collie puppy - descriptionThe Smooth Collie is a medium to large sized dog, ranging in size from 51–56cm and weighing anything from 18kg to 30kg.

The Smooth Collie is slightly longer than it is tall and he has a deep chest. Most people are very familiar with the sweet, gentle expression of the Collie dogs.

The dog also has the long slender head, the semi-erect ears and a long tail. The coat of the Smooth Collie is dense and long with the outer hair being straight and harsh. The Smooth Collie comes in different colors – fawn, reddish brown, white,grey, black and tan.

Temperament:

The Smooth Collie is generally an amicable dog, sociable and friendly. He loves his human family and wants to be constantly with them, showing signs of separation anxiety when left for long periods on his own.

He is intelligent too so that he is easily trained. He is totally non-aggressive but that doesn’t stop him from being an excellent watchdog and he’ll alert you to strangers approaching you or your home.

They’re also energetic dogs and will require regular exercise. Although these Smooth Collies make splendid family pets, they are still used for herding purposes.

Characteristics

cardigan welsh corgi dog - characteristicsThe Cardigan Welsh Corgi is full of surprises and he has been a strong working job, being quick and agile around cattle. He is good at everything and with training and socialization he is going to make an excellent pet.

They are good with children and other pets and he makes an excellent guard dog as well. He is strong willed and feisty but he wants to please his owner. With a dog like this in your life, you’re going to have a faithful and loving friend who knows how to entertain you as well with his antics.

The Smooth Collie ticks all the right boxes for making a splendid pet.

smooth collie dog - characteristicsNot only is he intelligent, he is playful and energetic too, making a good pet for children and tolerating other pets too.

Add to that the fact that he is a a good watchdog and wants to protect his family. Sweet and gentle, the Smooth Collie is guaranteed to make a wonderful addition to your family.

Health Problems

cardigan welsh corgi puppies - health problemsThe Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. Like all dogs, they will have some health concerns, and recognizing the symptoms of some common dog illnesses can spare your pet.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a debilitating genetic joint condition that can affects any dog really. It occurs when the hind leg joint isn’t held properly by the hip socket. Bone is worn away and your dog can experience severe pain.

Unfortunately this is a common skeletal disorder and your pet will be reluctant to jump or play. Untreated, it can lead to arthritis and chronic pain, making him immobile. There are several types of treatments and you want to get your pet to the vet to relieve him of pain and discomfort.

Degenerative Myelopathy:

This is a terrible disease for your pet because the rear legs can actually become paralyzed and your pet won’t be able to control their bowels. It is an inflammatory autoimmune disease where the dog’s immune system cells attack the spinal cord sheath. If your vet suspects Degenerative Myelopathy, a blood sample will be required. Sometimes the dog has to be mercifully euthanized. Sometimes people even turn to holistic treatments to avoid this and help their pet.

smooth collie puppies - health problemsYour gentle smooth haired collie can live to be 12 to 14 years of age if he enjoys a good life, but like with other dog breeds, they can also be susceptible to certain common dog illnesses.

Collie Eye Anomaly:

This is when the chromosomes that determine how the eyes develop are mutated, so that the blood vessels that nourish the retina and absorb scattered light are underdeveloped. When this mutation occurs it is in both eyes, but one eye could be more severely affected than the other.

Your vet will do a complete examination of your dog’s eyes to find out what the extent of the defect is.

Bloat or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus:

This is a life threatening problem where the stomach twists. It is more prevalent in deep chested dogs. It can help by feeding your dog two smaller meals a day instead of one larger one which he gobbles up quickly.

Cyclic Neutropenia:

Also known as Gray Collie Syndrome, this rare disease affects the neutrophils of a dog, which are an important part of the immune system. Bacterial infections and a shortened lifespan are your dog’s lot with this illness.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

cardigan welsh corgi dogs - caringCardigan Welsh corgis are active dogs and he is going to need daily exercise. He’ll love a walk with you and will show you how agile he is when you throw a ball for him

Grooming:

The Cardigan is a low maintenance dog. His thick double coat does shed quite a bit but nonetheless it is easy to maintain. Simply give it a good brush to remove loose hairs and to get rid of dirt. This brushing distributes the dogs natural oils and helps to keep the coat shiny and healthy.

Diet:

smooth collie dogs - caringYour Smooth Collie deserves the very best food there is because of the wonderful companionship he provides you with. You want him to enjoy good health and a long life with you.

If you buy one of the commercially manufactured dog foods, make sure it is one of the best – packed with vitamins and minerals and good, natural ingredients.

Follow the instructions on the packaging for portion sizes. Also include some plain, wholesome dog food made at home. The perfect example of this is boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and sweet potatoes, spinach and carrots all chopped up and added to your dog’s dry kibble as a treat twice a week. No need to add in exotic spices. Avoid onions.

Try and include some raw meat into the diet once in a while too. Make sure your Smooth Collie has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Spay or Neuter:

This is one of the best things you can do for your Collie, eliminating the possibility of your pet becoming a parent of unwanted puppies.

Grooming:

Brush your Smooth Collie twice a week. He is a moderate shedder but has a couple of heavier shedding periods.

While brushing your pet, check inside the ears for signs of infection, check that his eyes are still bright and alert and check inside his mouth for bad teeth. He can’t tell you about a rotting tooth and this can cause a host of other problems for your dog.

Comparison with other breeds

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  5. Smooth Collie vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Smooth Collie vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  9. Smooth Collie vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
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  11. Smooth Collie vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
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  26. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison