Corgis are bold, intelligent, and bursting with personality. Whether you’re dealing with a cheeky puppy or a confident adult, this guide answers the most common questions Corgi owners ask – with natural care tips and helpful links to Poppy’s Picnic’s award-winning raw dog food and meatballs.

General Care and Wellbeing

1. How often should I groom my Corgi?

Corgis have thick double coats that shed year-round, so brushing 2–3 times a week is essential. During shedding seasons, daily brushing helps remove undercoat. A diet rich in omega fats, like Poppy’s Picnic raw meals, supports skin and coat health.

2. Do Corgis shed a lot?

Yes – they’re heavy seasonal shedders. Consistent grooming and a raw diet such as Poppy’s Picnic Complete Meals help reduce shedding and support coat condition from within.

3. How much exercise does a Corgi need each day?

Corgis are active herding dogs and need at least an hour of physical activity each day. Long walks, play sessions, and enrichment are essential. Feed them a protein-rich diet like Poppy’s Picnic Beef Meatballs to fuel their energy without overfeeding.

4. Are Corgis prone to health problems?

Yes, especially joint issues like hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), plus obesity and skin conditions. 

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Corgi?

Corgis typically live 12 to 15 years. Longevity is supported by daily exercise, routine vet care, and a good diet. 

6. How often should I bathe my Corgi?

Once every 6–8 weeks is usually enough. Avoid over-bathing as it can strip natural oils. Poppy’s Picnic-fed dogs often have cleaner skin and less odour, meaning fewer baths are needed.

7. What is the best way to clean a Corgi’s ears?

Wipe with a dog-safe ear cleaner and cotton pad weekly. Redness or smell may signal infection. 

8. How do I know if my Corgi is overweight?

You should be able to feel their ribs and see a waist when viewed from above. Use Poppy’s Picnic’s feeding guide to portion meals accurately and avoid overfeeding.

Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What are the best toys for Corgis?

They love puzzle feeders, chew toys and balls they can chase. Fill a toy with Poppy’s Picnic treats for enrichment that satisfies both body and brain.

10. How can I keep my Corgi’s coat shiny and healthy?

Regular brushing, a clean coat, and a raw diet are key. Poppy’s Picnic Complete Meals are naturally high in healthy fats and proteins to support coat condition.

Behaviour and Temperament

11. Are Corgis good with children?

Yes, they’re loyal and fun-loving. They do best with children who understand boundaries, as Corgis may herd by nipping. Structure and routine around meals and play – such as regular feeding times with Poppy’s Picnic raw food – help create calm, family-friendly habits.

12. Do Corgis get along with other dogs and pets?

Usually yes, though they can be bossy. Early socialisation helps. Reinforce calm behaviour with treat-sized pieces of meatball during dog-to-dog interactions.

13. Are Corgis aggressive?

They’re not aggressive by nature, but can be assertive and vocal. Proper training, calm routines, and a balanced diet like Poppy’s Picnic can help prevent reactive behaviours.

14. Why does my Corgi chew everything?

Corgis are intelligent and may chew from boredom or teething. Provide safe chews and enrichment toys filled with frozen Poppy’s Picnic meatballs to redirect destructive chewing.

15. Why is my Corgi so clingy?

They’re bred to work closely with humans, so it’s natural. Build independence through routine and solo activities like licking mats topped with Poppy’s Picnic food.

16. Can Corgis be left alone during the day?

They can be left alone for a few hours if trained, but they prefer company. Use food enrichment – such as Kong – to keep them busy while you’re away.

17. Do Corgis bark a lot?

Yes, they’re alert and expressive. Reduce excess barking by using mental stimulation, consistent routines, and calming rewards.

18. Why is my Corgi digging up the garden?

Digging is often caused by boredom. Redirect with a digging pit or puzzle feeder. Hide Poppy’s Picnic meatball pieces to turn it into a foraging game.

19. Are Corgis hyper?

They’re energetic and love to stay busy. A daily walk, brain games, and structured feeding with Poppy’s Picnic meals help keep them balanced.

20. How can I calm down my Corgi?

Use calm voice tones, consistent routines, and food enrichment. A licking mat spread with Poppy’s Picnic raw food encourages calm, focused activity.

Training and Development

21. Are Corgis easy to train?

Yes – they’re bright and eager, though sometimes strong-willed. Keep sessions short and engaging. Use small pieces of meatball as high-value training rewards.

22. What’s the best age to start training a Corgi?

Begin as early as 8 weeks. Use gentle, reward-based methods.

23. How can I stop my Corgi from pulling on the lead?

Use a front-clip harness and reward loose-lead walking. Reinforce good behaviour on walks with tasty Poppy’s Picnic meatballs.

24. Why won’t my Corgi come when called?

Distraction or low recall training may be the issue. Practise in quiet areas and use enthusiastic tones. Reward recall every time with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

25. How do I toilet train a Corgi puppy?

Stick to a schedule and take them out after meals and naps. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic meals on a regular timetable helps regulate their routine.

26. How can I stop my Corgi from jumping up?

Ignore jumping and reward calm greetings. Ask for a “sit” and reinforce it with a reward like a Poppy’s Picnic treat.

27. What are the best training commands for a Corgi?

Sit, stay, come, leave it and down are must-haves. Corgis enjoy learning tricks too – use high-value treats to keep sessions fun.

28. Should I crate train my Corgi?

Yes – crates help with toilet training and create a safe den. Feed Poppy’s Picnic raw meals in the crate to build positive associations.

29. How do I handle separation anxiety in my Corgi?

Start with short absences and gradually increase. Leave enrichment like a frozen Kong filled with Poppy’s Picnic to keep them occupied and relaxed.

30. How much mental stimulation does a Corgi need?

A lot – they’re intelligent problem-solvers. Use puzzle feeders, nose work games, and scatter feeding with meatball treats to challenge their minds.

 

Health and Breed-Specific Issues

31. Are Corgis prone to hip dysplasia?

Yes – along with IVDD (intervertebral disc disease) due to their long backs and short legs. Keep them lean and avoid jumping from heights. 

32. What are common allergies in Corgis?

Corgis may react to grains, processed proteins, or artificial additives. Symptoms include itchy skin, ear infections and tummy trouble. 

33. How often should I take my Corgi to the vet?

At least once a year for health checks and vaccinations. Older Corgis or those with weight or joint issues may need more frequent visits. 

34. What’s the best age to neuter or spay a Corgi?

Vets usually recommend between 6–12 months depending on development. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic raw meals before and after surgery supports healing with natural protein and nutrients.

35. Do Corgis get ear infections easily?

Yes, especially if they have allergies or eat processed food. Clean ears weekly and support immune health by feeding a natural diet like Poppy’s Picnic.

36. What are signs of heart problems in Corgis?

Coughing, fatigue, and shortness of breath may signal heart issues. Speak to your vet if you notice changes. Feeding Poppy’s Picnic food helps support weight and cardiovascular health through fresh, natural nutrition.

37. Are Corgis more prone to arthritis as they age?

Yes, especially if they’ve been overweight or had spinal strain. Manage their weight  with food like Poppy’s Picnic Complete meals.

38. What vaccinations does my Corgi need?

Core vaccines include distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and leptospirosis. Kennel cough may be recommended if they’re social. Support immunity with a balanced raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic for optimal health.

39. How can I care for my senior Corgi?

Provide gentle walks, comfy bedding, and joint support. Older dogs may benefit from softer food – Poppy’s Picnic raw meals can be lightly steamed for easier chewing.

40. What’s the difference between Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis?

Cardigans are slightly larger with a bushy tail and rounder ears, while Pembrokes are more popular and often tailless. Both have similar temperaments and thrive on fresh food like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs.

 

Lifestyle and Suitability

41. Are Corgis good for first-time dog owners?

Yes, they’re intelligent and loyal. Just be prepared for shedding and a bit of sass. A simple feeding routine with Poppy’s Picnic helps keep things structured from the start.

42. Can Corgis live in flats or apartments?

Yes, if they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. Use puzzle feeders and toys stuffed with treats to satisfy their active minds indoors.

43. Do Corgis enjoy swimming?

Some do, but many need encouragement due to their dense build. Introduce them slowly to shallow water. Always supervise and offer a tasty reward like Poppy’s Picnic meatballs afterwards.

44. Are Corgis suitable for people with allergies?

Not ideal as they’re heavy shedders and produce dander. That said, feeding a raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic may reduce skin flaking and shedding by improving coat condition.

45. Can Corgis be used as therapy or assistance dogs?

Yes, they’re smart, loving and eager to work. Feeding a clean, nutrient-rich diet like Poppy’s Picnic helps maintain calm energy and mental clarity needed for therapy roles.

46. Do Corgis travel well?

Most do – just ensure they’re secure and comfortable. Bring fresh water and travel-friendly treats that don’t require refrigeration.

47. What size crate is best for a Corgi?

Usually a 30–36 inch crate is ideal. It should be wide and low enough for their body shape. Feed meals like Poppy’s Picnic raw food in the crate to build positive associations.

48. How do Corgis handle hot weather?

Not well as their thick coats make them prone to overheating. Walk them in the early morning or evening and offer cooling treats like frozen bone broth cubes.

49. Are Corgis good hiking companions?

Yes, but stick to moderate terrain and take breaks. Their short legs tire quickly. Pack water and Poppy’s Picnic ambient meatballs for a high-protein trail snack.

50. Can Corgis be trained for agility or obedience competitions?

Absolutely. They excel at agility and thrive on mental challenges. Keep training sessions positive and use meatball rewards to keep them focused and motivated.