Corgis are irresistibly cute—with their stubby legs, expressive eyes, and endless zoomies. But behind that charm is a smart, strong-willed dog with serious energy.
New corgi owners often underestimate what they’re signing up for. And those adorable quirks? They can spiral into chaos if you’re not prepared.
Here are 7 common mistakes new corgi owners make (and how to avoid them):
1. Underestimating Their Herding Instincts
Corgis were bred to herd cattle. That instinct is strong, and it doesn’t disappear just because your living room isn’t a pasture.
Watch for: ankle-nipping, chasing kids or other pets, and bossy behavior.
Fix it: Channel their instincts with structured games, training, and mental stimulation.
2. Not Exercising Them Enough
Yes, they have short legs. But don’t be fooled: corgis are athletes. Without enough physical and mental exercise, they get bored—and a bored corgi is a mischievous one.
Fix it: Daily walks, interactive toys, and training sessions are a must.
3. Ignoring Their Stubborn Side
Corgis are intelligent and independent. That means they learn quickly—but they also test boundaries.
Fix it: Be consistent, patient, and positive with training. Don’t let the cuteness distract you from discipline.
4. Overfeeding Those Puppy Eyes
Corgis love food. But their long backs and short legs make them prone to weight gain, which can lead to serious joint issues.
Fix it: Stick to measured portions, use treats for training, and avoid too many table scraps.
5. Skipping Early Socialization
If you don’t expose your corgi to other dogs, people, and environments early on, you could end up with a reactive or anxious pup.
Fix it: Start socialization early and gradually. Make new experiences positive and rewarding.
6. Neglecting Their Need for a Job
Corgis are working dogs. If you don’t give them a task, they’ll create their own (usually something destructive).
Fix it: Try agility, obedience training, or even fun at-home tasks like fetching specific items.
7. Thinking Their Sass Is Just a Phase
That corgi sass isn’t going away. It’s part of the package—and it can be hilarious or overwhelming, depending on how you handle it.
Fix it: Embrace their personality, but set boundaries early. They’re cute and clever, and they need leadership.
Corgis are delightful, but they’re not low-maintenance. Get ahead of these common mistakes and you’ll turn the chaos into a confident, happy companion.
Cute doesn’t have to mean crazy—especially when you know what you’re doing.
