Understanding the Health and Care of Your Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Quick answer

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent and playful companions, but they are prone to specific health issues that require careful monitoring. By maintaining a lean body condition, providing consistent training, and watching for early signs of movement or vision changes, you can help your dog live a comfortable life. Always prioritize non-slip flooring and controlled exercise to protect their back and joints.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, leading to wear and tear. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog struggling to stand up, showing a reluctance to jump, or developing a swaying gait. A veterinarian will perform a physical examination to check for joint laxity and will use X-rays to confirm the diagnosis. The most common mistake is assuming a limping dog is just tired, which delays the start of supportive care.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

This condition involves the gradual deterioration of the retina, which can eventually lead to vision loss. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Early signs include your dog appearing hesitant in dim light or bumping into objects in the dark. Your veterinarian will use a specialized light to examine the back of the eye and may refer you to a specialist for an electroretinogram to confirm the condition. There is no cure, but you can help your dog by keeping furniture in the same place and using consistent verbal cues.

Intervertebral Disc Disease

Because of their build, this breed is prone to issues with the discs between the vertebrae. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog arching their back, shivering, or refusing to move their neck or back. A veterinarian will conduct a neurological exam to assess pain and reflex responses. Advanced imaging like an MRI is often used to see the extent of the disc problem. Do not wait to seek help if your dog seems unable to walk or drags their back legs, as this is an emergency.

Degenerative Myelopathy

This is a progressive condition affecting the spinal cord. How this passes down is not settled, though it is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often first notice a slight dragging of the rear paws or uneven wear on the nails. The progression is often very slow. A veterinarian will rule out other spinal issues through physical exams and blood work. While there is no treatment to stop the progression, physical therapy can help maintain mobility for as long as possible.

Chronic Kidney Disease

This condition involves the gradual loss of kidney function. How this passes down is not settled, though it is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog drinking more water than usual, urinating more frequently, or experiencing a loss of appetite. Your veterinarian will use blood tests and urine analysis to evaluate kidney performance. Early detection is key to managing the condition through diet and medication.

Exercise-Induced Collapse

This condition causes a dog to lose control of their limbs during or after physical exertion. How this passes down is not settled, though it is a recognised tendency in the breed. You will notice your dog becoming weak or wobbly after a period of activity. A veterinarian will perform a thorough exam to rule out heart or metabolic issues. The best management strategy is to avoid activities that trigger the collapse and keep exercise sessions short and low-intensity.