You might be wondering why the Queen of England always has a few Cardigan Welsh Corgis by her side. Rumor has it she has owned over 30 of them during her reign! No, it’s not just because they’re extremely cute and fluffy. Did you know that these pint-sized dogs were originally bred for protection and herding? That’s right. Despite their small stature and lovable nature, Cardigans, surprisingly, could play the role of guard dogs. But before you trade in your robust Rottweiler for a little Corgi, allow me to provide you a bit of an insight into these fascinating and adorable creatures.
Legends tell us that the Cardigan Welsh Corgi springs from the lairs of magical creatures in Wales. Folklore recounts that these were the preferred pets or transportation mode for fairies and sprites! You might notice the distinct markings on their coats, which according to tales, are scars from fairy harnesses and saddles. Quite a celestial beginning for these earthly companions, don’t you think?
Journeying from mythical lore to real-world history, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a product of a thousand years of careful breeding. Initially utilized to guard homesteads, watch over children, and herd cattle, these dogs had to be sharp, alert, and willing to stand their ground. They carry those same traits today, wrapped up neatly in their charming, fluffy bodies!
Despite their royal and mythical connections, and their protective instincts, using a Cardigan Welsh Corgi as a primary guard dog might not exactly be the wisest decision. After all, their lovable, friendly nature might get in the way! Though they are indeed protective of their family, their small size and less intimidating appearance may not make them the biggest deterrent to intruders. A burglar might very well be tickled pink upon encountering a Corgi instead of a growling German shepherd!
However, don’t underestimate these tiny powerhouses. A Cardigan Welsh Corgi’s alertness makes it an excellent watchdog. They have a keen sense of their surroundings and are usually the first to know if something is off. They tend to bark at unfamiliar noises or when they spot an unknown person standing on their turf. Their sharp bark and alert behavior are often sufficient to alert their owners about potential danger.
Training a Cardigan is like teaching a Grade A student – quick and smooth. With their high intelligence and eagerness to please, they absorb training like a sponge. If you train them correctly, you can build on their natural protective instincts and reaction capabilities. They’re capable of alerting you to situations, although stopping an intruder might not exactly be their strongest suit.
The key to maximizing a Cardigan Welsh Corgi’s potential as a guard dog is proper socialization at a young age. Exposing them to varied environments, people, and situations can reduce their over-protectiveness and control their barking to when it is truly necessary.
In conclusion, while the Cardigan Welsh Corgi does possess a protective streak due to their historical role as guardians and herders, their effectiveness as guard dogs comes down to their size and temperament. They may not be the most effective at physically protecting your home, but their alertness and intelligence make them excellent watchdogs who will dutifully keep you informed about any unusual occurrences around your home.
So maybe the next time you see the Queen of England surrounded by her playful corgis, you’ll know it’s not all about ridiculously cute faces that could melt your heart. These small powerhouses are as loyal and protective as they come – in their own special way!
Keep in mind though, there’s more to a dog than its ability to guard. Cardigan Welsh Corgis serve as wonderful, devoted companions that fill homes with joy, laughter, and, yes, dropped kibble as they bounce around in their cheerful, energetic manner. Choosing a pet is a commitment and choosing a Cardigan will ensure a lively home filled with tons of love, laughter and a lifetime of adventure.
And yes, perhaps a little guarding on the side!
