Corgis are adorable, loyal, and full of energy, but for new and experienced owners alike, understanding the growth and development of this breed is essential.
Whether you have a Pembroke Welsh Corgi or a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, knowing what to expect during their growth phases can help ensure they grow up healthy and happy.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the Corgi growth chart, weight expectations, key developmental stages, and other essential details to give you a comprehensive view of what to expect during your pup’s first year and beyond.
Corgi Growth Stages: A Comprehensive Chart
Corgis are known for their distinctive build—short legs, a long body, and an overall compact shape. Tracking their growth at various stages can help you monitor their development, ensuring they maintain a healthy weight and size.
Here’s a basic Corgi growth chart to give you an idea of the average milestones:
| Age | Weight (Male) | Weight (Female) | Height (Both Genders) |
| 2 Months | 4-6 lbs | 4-5 lbs | 4-6 inches |
| 4 Months | 10-12 lbs | 9-11 lbs | 7-9 inches |
| 6 Months | 15-18 lbs | 14-16 lbs | 9-11 inches |
| 9 Months | 20-24 lbs | 18-22 lbs | 10-12 inches |
| 12 Months | 24-30 lbs | 22-28 lbs | 10-12.5 inches |
Key Takeaways from the Growth Chart:
- Male Corgis tend to be slightly heavier than females, especially after 6 months.
- Both Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis follow a similar growth pattern, but Cardigans may be a bit larger.
- The average height of an adult Corgi ranges from 10 to 12.5 inches.
Monitoring these growth metrics is important to ensure your Corgi is developing at a healthy rate. If your puppy is significantly above or below these averages, it may be worth consulting a vet.
Corgi Weight Chart
Weight management is crucial for Corgis since their small stature and long bodies make them susceptible to joint and back issues if they become overweight. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of weight expectations during their growth:
| Age | Weight Range (Male) | Weight Range (Female) |
| 8 Weeks | 4-6 lbs | 4-5 lbs |
| 12 Weeks | 6-10 lbs | 5-9 lbs |
| 4 Months | 10-12 lbs | 9-11 lbs |
| 6 Months | 15-18 lbs | 14-16 lbs |
| 9 Months | 20-24 lbs | 18-22 lbs |
| 12 Months | 24-30 lbs | 22-28 lbs |
Weight Management Tips for Corgis:
- Portion Control: Corgis are prone to overeating, so follow your vet’s feeding recommendations.
- Exercise: Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are key to maintaining a healthy weight.
- Monitor Treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your Corgi’s daily calorie intake.
When Do Corgis Stop Growing?
Most Corgis will reach their full height by about 10-12 months, though some may continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are about 2 years old. By this age, they should have reached their adult weight.
Factors That Affect Growth:
- Genetics: If your Corgi comes from a lineage of larger or smaller dogs, their growth may vary from the average.
- Nutrition: A well-balanced diet with appropriate nutrients will support steady and healthy growth.
- Exercise Levels: Regular activity helps build strong muscles and maintain healthy joints, particularly in this breed.
On average, Corgis stop growing in height around 10-12 months, but their body may continue to develop in terms of strength and muscle until they are 18-24 months.
Growth Rate: How Quickly Do Corgis Grow?
Corgis experience a rapid growth phase between 2 to 6 months of age. During this time, you’ll notice significant increases in height and weight, often accompanied by increased appetite and energy levels. After 6 months, their growth will slow down, but they will continue to put on weight and muscle mass.
Corgi Growth Phases:
- 0-2 Months: Tiny, dependent pups that rely heavily on their mother for nutrition and care.
- 2-6 Months: Rapid growth period; they will start developing independence and learn to socialize.
- 6-12 Months: Growth slows; they approach adult height but may continue to gain weight and muscle mass.
- 12+ Months: Corgis reach adult size but may still undergo slight physical development.
During these periods, it’s essential to monitor your Corgi’s weight and adjust their diet or exercise as needed to avoid rapid weight gain, which could put strain on their developing joints.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs. Cardigan Welsh Corgi Growth
While both breeds share similar traits, there are a few key differences in how they grow and develop.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi:
- Size: Smaller and lighter than the Cardigan.
- Weight: Usually maxes out around 24-30 lbs.
- Tail: Tail is often docked, giving them a distinct appearance.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi:
- Size: Slightly larger, with a more robust build.
- Weight: Can range up to 38 lbs.
- Tail: Retains a long, bushy tail, which gives the breed a more balanced appearance.
Both breeds follow similar growth timelines, but Cardigan Corgis may take slightly longer to reach their full size due to their larger bone structure and heavier weight.
Male vs. Female Corgi Growth
The differences between male and female Corgis are subtle but important for owners to understand, especially when monitoring growth.
Male Corgis:
- Tend to be slightly larger, both in height and weight.
- Weight Range: 24-30 lbs.
- Height Range: 10-12.5 inches.
Female Corgis:
- Generally smaller and lighter.
- Weight Range: 22-28 lbs.
- Height Range: 9-11.5 inches.
Key Considerations:
- Maturity: Males often take longer to mature both physically and emotionally.
- Behavioral Differences: While size differences are slight, male Corgis may be more independent, whereas females can be more affectionate.
Full Size: How Long Do Corgis Get?
Corgis, despite their short legs, can grow quite long. Their body length is one of their most distinctive features.
On average, adult Corgis measure between 22 to 24 inches in length from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail (or where the tail would be, for docked Pembroke Corgis).
Factors That Influence Length:
- Breed: Cardigans tend to be slightly longer due to their larger frame.
- Health and Nutrition: Proper nutrition ensures your Corgi reaches their full potential size without becoming overweight.
Detailed Developmental Stages of Corgis
Understanding the various developmental stages of your Corgi can help you manage their needs, behavior, and training throughout puppyhood.
Birth to 2 Weeks:
- Milestones: Puppies are blind, deaf, and rely entirely on their mother for nourishment.
- Care Tips: Minimal owner involvement; just ensure the environment is clean and safe.
2 Weeks to 10 Weeks:
- Milestones: Eyes open, and they begin to explore the world. Socialization begins.
- Care Tips: Start gentle handling and interaction, and introduce them to new sounds and textures.
10 Weeks to 4 Months:
- Milestones: This is the socialization phase—Corgis become curious and active.
- Care Tips: Vaccination schedule begins; start early training with positive reinforcement.
4 Months to 6 Months:
- Milestones: Rapid growth slows down, and they begin teething.
- Care Tips: Provide chew toys to relieve teething discomfort, and continue with training.
6 Months to 10 Months:
- Milestones: Growth continues steadily; they may begin testing boundaries.
- Care Tips: Consistent training and socialization are crucial to prevent bad habits.
10 Months to 12 Months:
- Milestones: They are near their full size but may still fill out and gain muscle.
- Care Tips: Adjust their diet to suit their activity levels and growth.
1 Year and Beyond:
- Milestones: Corgis reach adulthood and their full size.
- Care Tips: Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent obesity and support joint health.
Is the Corgi Breed Right for You?
Corgis are loyal, intelligent, and often make great companions, but they aren’t for everyone. Here are some factors to consider:
- Personality: They are strong-willed and can be stubborn, which means consistent training is a must.
- Energy Levels: Corgis are active dogs and need regular exercise.
- Health Concerns: Due to their long body, they are prone to back problems, making weight management and careful exercise vital.
Corgis can be a perfect fit for families or individuals who have time to invest in training, exercise, and care.
Conclusion
Understanding the growth and development of your Corgi is key to ensuring they live a long, healthy, and happy life.
From monitoring their weight with a Corgi growth chart to ensuring they meet key developmental milestones, there’s a lot to learn and enjoy as you watch your puppy grow.
