American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: What’s the Difference?

Did you know that there are many different Corgi varieties, two of them being the American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi? While one of these is a recognized purebred breed of dog, the other one isn’t. But in what other ways are these two dogs different and similar to each other, and how can you learn how to tell them apart?

In this article, we will address all of the physical differences between the American Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi so that you can learn what they look like. We will also discuss the ancestral and behavioral differences between these two dogs, including the difference in the average lifespan of them. Let’s get started now! 

Comparing American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Key Differences Between American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

There are many key differences between the American Corgi and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The American Corgi is a non purebred cross breed of dog, while the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a purebred dog breed recognized by the AKC. Additionally, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are not found in merle colored coats, while American corgis are. Finally, the American Corgi lives a shorter life on average compared to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. 

Let’s discuss all of these differences in more detail now. 

American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Size

You may not notice it by looking at the two dogs side by side, but there are some size differences between the American Corgi and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The American Corgi was bred to resemble the size of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, though it often weighs less overall. The heights of these two dogs are nearly identical, but the American Corgi weighs 2-5 pounds less than the Pembroke Welsh Corgi on average. 

American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Appearance

You get an American Corgi by breeding a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a Cardigan Welsh Corgi together, so you can guess that the appearance of these two dogs is similar. However, Pembroke Welsh corgis are only found in select coat colors including white, black, red, and tri color, while the American Corgi is frequently found in a merle coat. 

The merle coat is genetically impossible for a Pembroke to come in, which is why the American Corgi exists in the first place. Many breeders want the merle coat often found on the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. However, they want this distinct pattern and coloring on a smaller breed of dog. Otherwise, American Corgis and Pembroke Welsh Corgis have elongated bodies and short legs. They also have erect ears and they may or may not have a tail. 

American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Ancestry and Breeding

There are distinct differences in the ancestry and breeding of American Corgis and Pembroke Welsh Corgis. For example, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated as far back as 1000 AD, bred in the Welsh countryside for farm work and herding. The American Corgi is a much more modern breed compared to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. It was created by breeding a Pembroke Corgi with a Cardigan Welsh Corgi. The result was a Corgi with a merle coat.

The American Corgi is considered a designer dog, bred for specific physical features rather than health and wellness. Breeding designer dogs for this purpose often leads to controversy, given the fact that American Corgis are often born with genetic issues due to their merle coat coloring.

American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Behavior

The behaviors of the American Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are very similar to one another. However, Pembroke Welsh Corgis tend to have more energy than American corgis, given their healthier breeding and natural genetic process. Though, it always depends on the specific dog as well as the health and care that it is receiving. 

American Corgis are friendly and a joy to have around, similar to Pembroke Welsh Corgis. However, many Pembroke Welsh Corgis exhibit more herding behavior compared to American Corgis. This is something to keep in mind if you have young children in the home. 

American Corgi vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Lifespan

A final difference between American Corgis and Pembroke Welsh Corgis is their lifespan. Despite American Corgis being billed as a genetically sturdy cross breed of dog, Pembroke Welsh Corgis live longer on average compared to American Corgis. This is likely due to the rampant genetic issues found when crossbreeding Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis.

For example, American corgis live an average of 10 to 12 years. Pembroke Welsh corgis live anywhere from 13 to 15 years, depending on the health of the individual animal. This is why it is important to always do your research. You should only purchase a purebred or designer dog from a reputable breeder. Plus, there’s always your local animal shelter if you are looking for a lovable and loyal companion rather than choosing a designer dog!

What is The Difference Between a Cowboy Corgi and an American Corgi?

American Corgis typically stand at a height of 10 to 12 inches, whereas Cowboy Corgis have a more broader height range. This height range can vary from 13 to 20 inches.

Additionally, there are differences in their general weights. For example, Cowboy Corgis average between 25 to 40 pounds, and American Corgis average between 20 to 30 pounds.

Both the American Corgi and the Cowboy Corgi are well-known for their special coats and appearances. American Corgis have a merle coat, while Cowboy Corgis have a distinct spotted coat similar to the Australian Cattle Dog.

Furthermore, American Corgis might or might not have a tail, but Cowboy Corgis always have no tail.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Kseniia Grigoreva/Shutterstock.com