If you are a dog owner looking to get a new pet, what are the first things you are looking for? Do you have an idea of what do you want in a family pet?
Some of the more popular dog breeds for family companions include the Dachshund breed and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed. In fact, Dachshunds rank in the top 10 of most popular dogs by the American Kennel Club.
Today, I want to use my experience as a dog owner and help you find the right dog for you. Before we take a deeper look into the Dachshund vs Corgi comparison, let’s talk about what do you want.
These two dogs are quite similar in their temperament, but different in size and build. For some dog owners, size plays a role. For others, it is all about temperament and training. And then we have pet parents that want to know the exercise needs of their pooch. Well, I’ve got you covered in all areas.
Dachshunds come in a variety of sizes, from miniature to standard, and can have one of three coat types—smooth, wire-haired, or long-haired.
Corgis, on the other hand, are known for their fluffy coats and come in colors like red and fawn.
Key Takeaways
- Dachshunds and Corgis were bred for different purposes and their origin is different
- The main differences between the two dogs are size, coat types, and colors
- Both breeds require regular exercise and mental stimulation, and each has specific grooming needs
Breed Origins
Whenever I talk about comparing dog breeds, the first step to finding out more is history and origin. If you learn the history of your beloved pet, you can understand his character. All dogs were bred for specific reason. Usually, they retain their instincts.
Let’s take a look into the background of the Dachshund and Corgi dog breed. Do you want to know what were they bred for?
These dogs have ties to the European continent, with Dachshunds originating in Germany, while Corgis coming from Wales.
Dachshund Roots
Germany, a country with a rich history, is the birthplace of the Dachshund dog breed. Originally bred to hunt, these little dogs with elongated bodies and short legs were keen badger hunters back in the 1500s. Their unique shape allowed them to dive into burrows and take on animals that hid underground.
- Origin: Germany
- Primary role: Hunting
Corgi Beginnings
Shifting over to the picturesque landscapes of Wales, we find the Corgi breed. This breed has a history not quite as traceable as the Dachshund, but it stands out for its herding prowess.
Recognized officially in 1934 by the United Kingdom’s Kennel Club, the Corgi has been nipping at the heels of cattle, showing that size does not define capability. In the past several years, it was Queen Elizabeth II that popularized the Corgi breed.
- Origin: Wales
- Primary role: Herding
Size and Appearance
As I said in the beginning, the main differences between these two dogs are in the physical appearance. Looking at the Dachshund vs Corgi dog breed comparison, you can easily notice the leaner dog, right? Dachshunds are called wiener dogs because of their sleek, long, slim body resembling a wiener.
Corgis, on the other hand, are famous for their big butt. Corgis have one of the most distinctive looks in the canine world. Their sturdy frame and taller stature stand bigger.
The Dachshund Form
The best way to describe the Dachshund breed is “small dog with a huge personality”. This little pup weighs between 16 and 32 pounds, and despite its short legs, stretches up to 8 or 9 inches at the shoulder.
Their appealing look comes with a variety of coat types – smooth, long-haired, and wire-haired. While the American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize different sizes, breeders recognize Miniature Dachshund and Standard Dachshund.
And if you’re thinking about colors, Dachshunds come in a fun variety like chocolate, red, and even piebald patterns!
The Corgi Stature
The Corgi, compact and strong, carries a bit more heft for their frame. Weighing between 25 and 30 pounds, they stand taller than the Dachshund, with a height of around 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder. We also have to mention that there are two different types of Corgis, Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi. And there are subtle differences between the two.
The double coat is another Corgi trait, which comes in handy during colder months. These fluffy friends come in colors that can add cheer to any day, including fawn, red, and the classic tri-color.
Comparative Features
It’s fascinating to look at these two side by side. Both the Dachshund and the Corgi have short legs, but their overall appearances are distinct.
While the Dachshund’s silhouette is long and lean, the Corgi displays a more balanced frame with a robust body.
Their coats demand different care: smooth coats usually need less grooming, while the Corgi’s plush double coat might have you brushing more frequently to keep it tidy and mat-free.
Temperament and Personality
While size does play a role, I can tell you from experience, it is all about the personality and temperament of your pup. If you are considering Dachshund vs Corgi puppy, we have to say, they are vastly different.
Both are full of love, but they bring their unique quirks to the household. You have to remember, they were bred for different purposes. Dachshunds were hunters back in the day, while Corgis were herding dogs. Their origin plays a role in the different temperament.
Dachshund Disposition
Dachshunds, affectionately known as ‘wiener dogs’, are bold and alert. They’re stuffed full of energy and tend to wear their hearts on their sleeves.
Hey, they can be a bit stubborn at times, but that’s just because they’ve got opinions and they’re not afraid to tell you about them! It’s all part of their charm.
On the flip side, dachshunds are affectionate and often stick to their humans like glue, leading to the nickname “velcro dogs”.
- Stubbornness: Can be strong-willed; often they like things their own way
- Affectionate: They are seriously loving and enjoy snuggling up
- Alertness: Always on the watch, they’ll let you know if something’s up
- Independence: They value a bit of ‘me time’ as much as cuddle time
Corgi Character
Corgis, on the other paw, are like the social butterflies of the dog world—they love making friends and are usually energetic and friendly.
They’ve got this way of spreading happiness wherever they trot with their fluffy behinds. They’re also big on being part of the family action and show a lot of love to their people, making them super affectionate partners in crime.
- Sociability: Loves company, both with humans and other pets
- Energy: They’re lively and need plenty of playtime
- Friendliness: They’re quick to wag their tail for new folks
- Love: They’re all heart and show it in heaps
Health and Lifespan
When choosing between a Dachshund and a Corgi, it’s super important to understand the health issues they might face and how long they typically stick around.
Health Challenges
Dachshunds and Corgis both bring a lot of joy but can face some tough health challenges.
Dachshunds are known for their long backs, which can make them prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)—a condition affecting their spine that can lead to pain or even paralysis.
It’s serious stuff. Besides this, obesity can be a real problem if they don’t get enough exercise, since carrying extra weight puts more strain on their backs.
On the other hand, Corgis have their own set of concerns.
They can have issues like hip dysplasia, where the hip joint doesn’t fit together perfectly, causing pain and mobility problems.
Plus, they’re at risk for a genetic condition called degenerative myelopathy, which can affect their spinal cord and lead to weakness in the hind legs.
- Common Health Problems for Dachshunds and Corgis:
- Back Problems
- Obesity
- Hip Dysplasia (more common in Corgis)
- Degenerative Myelopathy (Corgis)
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (more common in Dachshunds)
Expected Lifespan
Now, let’s talk about how long these pups might be part of the family.
Dachshunds have a pretty good run, often living for about 12-16 years. They love to cuddle and play throughout their lives, so they might be around for lots of good times.
Corgis are right up there too, with an expected lifespan of 12-15 years.
Just like Dachshunds, they’re full of energy and will keep families laughing with their playful shenanigans for many years.
To sum it up, here are their lifespans in a nutshell:
| Breed | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Dachshund | 12-16 years |
| Corgi | 12-15 years |
It’s clear that with the right care, these breeds can enjoy a full and happy life next to their human pals. But it’s also plain to see that their happiness hinges a lot on staying healthy and avoiding the common issues that can crop up with each breed.
Exercise Needs
When it comes to keeping a dachshund or a corgi happy, think about their need for exercise. These dogs have energy to burn and they love playtime and walks.
Keeping Dachshunds Active
Dachshunds may be small, but don’t let their size fool you—they’ve got plenty of energy. They need regular exercise to keep them from getting bored and to prevent too many pounds from piling on. Aim for daily walks and include some fun games to give them a good mix of physical activity and mental stimulation.
Here’s the lowdown:
- Walks: At least 30 minutes a day. Split it up if you need to!
- Play: Games that make them think, like hide and seek with their toys, are great
Exercising Corgis
Corgis, those cute fluffy dogs with short legs, need to stay on the move quite a bit. They’ve got higher energy levels than dachshunds and skipping exercise is a no-no. Make sure your corgi gets a good dose of action every day.
Here’s what they need:
- Vigorous daily walks: About 45 to 75 minutes will keep that tail wagging
- Active playtime: They adore interactive games with their humans. It keeps their muscles and brain in tip-top shape
Grooming and Maintenance
When it comes to keeping your furry friend looking their best, a steady grooming routine is key. Both the Dachshund and the Corgi have different care needs, with attention to their coat type and shedding important. Remember, well-kept nails and regular brushing are just as important for their comfort as they are for their appearance.
Dachshund Grooming Routine
The grooming needs of a Dachshund vary with their three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired.
Smooth-coated Dachshunds are pretty chill when it comes to grooming. A quick brush once in a while keeps them tidy. But if you’ve got a longhaired or wirehaired Dachshund, they’ll need more time with the comb to stop mats and tangles.
- Smooth: Occasional brushing, bathe when needed
- Longhaired/Wirehaired: Regular brushing, more frequent baths, and professional grooming to look their best
Corgi Coat Care
Corgis may look like they’re wearing a thick fur coat all year round, but they don’t need a trip to the salon every week. They do shed quite a bit, so you’ll want to get in the habit of brushing them at least a couple of times a week. It helps with the shedding and keeps their coat nice and shiny.
- Brushing: A couple of times a week to manage shedding
- Bathing: Occasionally, based on their activities
Training and Intelligence
When it comes to teaching Dachshunds and Corgis, these dogs show quite different personalities. Dachshunds show a bit of a stubborn streak, while Corgis display eagerness to please, making their response to training varied.
Educating a Dachshund
They say teaching a Dachshund is like having a chat with a clever but willful child: they understand, but they have their own ideas. These pups are smart but prefer doing things their way.
Patience and consistency are key. Positive reinforcement should be your go-to method, rewarding them when they follow through.
Despite their stubbornness, they’re quite energetic and can still excel in obedience training with the right approach.
Corralling Corgi Smarts
Now, Corgis, they’re a different story. They’re quick learners, always eager to please, and have a good dose of intelligence. Training them tends to be a smoother ride.
They’re herding dogs, which means they’ve got the energy and the brains to be good students. Keep things fun, upbeat, and always remember to throw plenty of praises and treats their way for motivation.
Corgis are naturals when it comes to trainability, but just like any other dog, they need firm and loving guidance.
Living with Your Pet
Picking the right pet is a big deal. It’s about finding a good fit for your home and lifestyle, whether you have a big house or a cozy apartment. Pets bring a lot of joy, but their needs are different, just like us.
Dachshund in the Home
The dachshund, often known as the sausage dog, is a smart and lively little dog. These pups do well in smaller living spaces, like apartments, as long as they get their daily exercise and playtime. They have a strong sense of companionship and enjoy being with their humans.
When it comes to kids, dachshunds can be wonderful if they grow up with them, but they’ll need a proper introduction at first.
Here are some quick tips for a happy home with a dachshund:
- Exercise: Regular walks and playtime to keep them fit
- Training: Early socialization and training to help them be well-behaved
- Grooming: They have a low-maintenance coat, but it does require regular brushing
Corgi as a Companion
Corgis are not just royal favorites; they’re also known for their friendly nature and being amazing pets. They have a bit more of a robust build compared to dachshunds, and they’re herding dogs at heart.
This means they have energy to burn and love being part of family activities. In a home with kids, corgis can be protective and playful companions. However, they shed a fair bit, so be ready for some extra cleaning. For those wanting a corgi as a pet:
- Exercise: Lots of activities to channel their herding instincts
- Attention: They thrive on human interaction, so they need lots of love
Both breeds have unique needs and personalities, but one thing’s for sure: they both can be loving companions in the right home.
