Corgis and Shelties are fabulous dogs for active individuals and families with school-age children. There are many similarities in these breeds’ personalities overall but there are some differences that could be important for some households.
Corgi Could Be Better For You If:
- You work all day and your pet will need to stay alone at home for a few hours daily
- You prefer a more independent dog who loves interaction but is rarely clingy
Sheltie Could Be Better For You If:
- You are an avid runner or hiker and would like your dog to become your companion regularly
- You live in an area that has hot summers
- You prefer to avoid high initial and maintenance costs – Shelties are generally less expensive and need less veterinarian care
Overview Of The Breeds
| Breed | Pembroke Welsh corgi | Shetland sheepdog |
| Height | 10-13 in (25-33 cm) | 13-16 in (25-41 cm) |
| Weight | male: 22-32 lbs (10-14 kg) female: 22-30 lbs 10-13 kg | male and female: 14-27 lbs (6.5-12 kg) |
| Life span | 11-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Health issues | – hip dysplasia, arthritis, joint injuries – spinal disk problems – epilepsy – eye problems – von Willebrand’s disease (a clotting problem that leads to excessive bleeding) | – hip dysplasia – hypoactive thyroid – cataracts and other eye concerns – epilepsy – von Willebrand disease (less common than in Pembrokes) |
| Potential challenges | – barking, howling; – herding small animals, young kids – sensitive to hot weather – mobility problems later in life, due to back and joint issues – possibly high veterinarian costs | – barking, howling – herding small animals, young kids – separation anxiety, poor tolerance of being alone at home |
| Energy level, activity needs | – high-energy – medium exercise needs with modifications to avoid high-impact activities | – high-energy – high exercise needs |
| Good with kids? | Yes, absolutely but supervision around infants and toddlers | Yes, definitely, but needs supervision around infants and toddlers |
CORGIS AND SHELTIES IN COMPARISON
The Dog As An Activity Companion
Both breeds are dynamic, alert, and fond of the great outdoors, so Shelties and corgis are excellent activity partners, in general.
Of course, it is important to be mindful of the particular physique of Pembroke Welsh corgis, and Cardigan Welsh corgis, for that matter. One of the reasons why corgis have such a unique and peculiar appearance is their short legs and relatively long torsos. They are still very adroit and are even great at sprinting.
Corgis are wonderful companions when it comes to long walks, easy to moderate hiking in flat landscapes. However, they should not regularly participate in high-impact activities.
High-impact activities include distance running, intense hiking, especially in mountainous or hilly areas, and jumping. Even regular walks on asphalt are relatively high-impact, and ground trails are the preferred option for many reasons.
Shetland sheepdogs are universal companions. They do well with pretty much any outdoor adventures, including light or challenging hikes, running, games, and so on. Although Shelties are strong and have great stamina, graded conditioning is still important.
Another factor to keep in mind is that Shelties do well with hot weather, within reason, and with proper precautions. Corgis are a heat-sensitive breed and should not spend much time outside on a hot summer day.
Aquatic activities could take some time and practice to get used to for both Shelties and corgis.
Potential Behavioral Issues
Both breeds are prone to herding behaviors and may be interested in chasing young kids and small animals, as well as runners, bikers, and even cars. Those behaviors could be hard to unlearn but should be modifiable with training.
Shelties and corgis are exceptionally bright dogs, both breeds are known for great obedience skills and problem-solving. Although intelligence is a desirable trait and a great tool for dogs, it could come with some complications, too. Smart dogs need experiences and interaction, otherwise, they can become unhappy, restless, and prone to destructive behaviors.
Shelties are susceptible to separation anxiety, sometimes with inappropriate behaviors when home alone, but letting the dog exercise before you leave and providing toys and puzzles can be helpful. Corgis are less likely to suffer from separation anxiety, although a dog of any breed could experience this problem.
As far as being around strangers and unfamiliar dogs, both breeds are usually vigilant and could bark but are generally quite well-behaved. Aggression is uncommon.
Grooming Needs And Shedding
Double-coated and furry, corgis and Shelties do shed moderately to heavily, depending on the season. Dogs of these breeds benefit from a good brushing session and an occasional bath. Many owners choose to take their pets to professional groomers now and then but that part is not necessary.
The Dog And Children
Corgis and Shetland sheepdogs are excellent pets for families with kids of school age. These dogs are enthusiastic, fun, responsive to training, and generally well-behaved. Shetland sheepdogs are better suited for most types of high-impact exercise, such as running and hiking. Corgis are at risk for problems with joints and back, so hiking, running, and jumping are not ideal activities for these dogs.
When it comes to infants, toddlers, and very young kids in general, both Shelties and corgis need some supervision due to their nipping potential. With proper training and exposure to children, most of these dogs do well around young kids over time.
Other Pets
Well-socialized corgis and Shetland sheepdogs both do very well with other pets in the household, as long as they are properly introduced and allowed sufficient time to adjust.
When outside, dogs of both breeds can be vigilant around other dogs and could be quite vocal about that.
Can The Dog Live In An Apartment?
The amount of exercise you provide your pet with is more important than having a spacious house. As active dogs, both breeds need at least an hour of walking or playing in a park every day or almost every day.
Corgis and Shelties can live in an apartment or a compact house without a yard but a patio or balcony is a good feature for your pet to be able to spend some time on and observe the outdoors.
Shetland sheepdogs are more likely to struggle with restlessness and separation anxiety, so they must have things to do, good toys, and, more than anything, company. Corgis are easier in that sense but they are also dogs that need stimulation and movement.
If your apartment is on a high floor and there is no elevator, a corgi could have a hard time walking up and down the stairs, due to joint issues.
To Conclude
Shelties are generally a better match for very active people who enjoy running, hiking, and playing outdoors. They get along better with other dogs, as well as cats.
Corgis are more independent and less likely to struggle with being alone at home. They also do fine as the only pets in the household, while Shetland sheepdogs are more likely to appreciate the company of other pets.
Both breeds are highly energetic and bright, so be prepared to spend some time and energy to keep your furry friend engaged and physically active.
