What Health Problems do Corgis Have?

Growing in popularity due to their friendly and affectionate personalities, Corgis are everywhere! Before you get a Corgi, you should learn as much as you can about the breed and be aware of breed-specific needs.

Distinct Differences in Corgi Breeds

There are two distinct breeds within the Welsh Corgi family; although similar in temperament, there are a few physical differences between the two:

• Cardigan Welsh Corgi: the older of the two breeds, Cardigans have a tail, and their feet are round and curve outwards. They also tend to be heavier than the Pembroke, with slightly more prominent, rounder ears.
•  Pembroke Welsh Corgi: the more common of the two breeds, the Pembroke have bobbed tails and tend to be smaller than the Cardigan.

Corgi Back Problems and Mobility Concerns

For the most part, Corgis are generally healthy. However, due to their long torso combined with their short legs, there is a tendency towards back problems and mobility issues within the breed. some health conditions are shared among the breed that can affect their mobility, including:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Arthritis
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
• Obesity

Walkin’ Wheels Corgi Wheelchair

Corgis are among the most common breeds to require a wheelchair or other mobility assistance in their lifetime.

The Walkin’ Wheels Corgi Wheelchair is specifically designed to fit the Corgi. The Corgi Cart fits Corgis from 20 to 40 pounds and is available in Blue, Pink, and Camo. The wheelchair is perfectly designed to fit the long torsoed breed. The Walkin’ Wheels helps maintain a sense of independence while strengthening your Corgi’s muscles.

With degenerative diseases like DM, your Corgi’s mobility can worsen over time. As DM progresses, additional front support in the front may also be needed. The rear Corgi Cart can convert into a 4-wheel/Full Support wheelchair, providing your dog both front and rear support.

It’s important to note when fitting your Corgi’s wheelchair, the side extender or sidebar may slope down in front. A slight downward slope is normal with this breed, as their back legs tend to be longer than their front legs.

Corgi Wheelchair Accessories

Due to their unique shape, there are a few special accessories that every Corgi should have. These will make their Walkin’ Wheels extra comfy:

• Belly Support: due to their long body, Corgis need additional support in their spine. This neoprene belly wrap supports the center of your dog’s body while also providing additional comfort. The neoprene support helps lift the center of your corgi’s spine, working to avoid a drooping back.
• Walkin’ Front Vest: with the broader chest of a corgi, this neoprene harness provides more support than the standard wheelchair harness, adds comfort, and is specially designed to fit the Small or Corgi Walkin’ Wheels. The Corgi Vest is more comfortable, but it can also help improve the overall fit of your dog’s wheelchair.

Other Mobility Assistance Solutions

If your Corgi isn’t quite ready for a wheelchair and is just starting to wobble or lose their balance when they walk, here are some other solutions to give your Corgi a boost:

• Walkin’ Lift Rear Harness: this easy-to-use harness provides your Corgi with rear support. It can also be used for rear support with the Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair.
• Lift-n-Step Harness: this full support harness provides lifting support to your Corgi’s front and rear.
• Traction Socks: if your Corgi is slipping on tile or hardwood and needs extra grip on slippery surfaces. Traction Socks are a great solution to help keep their feet under them; if too tall for your Corgi’s short legs, these socks can be folded down easily.

Corgi Back Problems

The corgi breed is prone to back issues, particularly herniated discs and IVDD. Corgis have a long back, and as they age, pressure on the spine can cause severe back pain and spinal issues.

Depending on what part of the spinal cord is affected and the amount of pressure, the back pain and symptoms can vary. Many corgis will need a back brace to support the spine and relieve spinal pain properly. A corgi back brace needs to be long enough to protect their entire back.

Corgi Blindness and Vision Loss

Although not as prevalent as mobility concerns, some Corgis are prone to hereditary conditions affecting their vision, especially as they age. These concerns include:

• Canine Cataracts
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): leading to night blindness

Cataracts and some vision loss may be corrected through surgery or medication. Speak to your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your Corgi. If your dog suffers from blindness or loss of vision, the Walkin’ Blind Dog Halo can help them adjust to their eyesight changes. The Walkin’ Blind Dog Halo can help them adjust to their difference in eyesight. The halo allows them to easily navigate their space, building confidence in their movement as they learn to avoid any obstacles.

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Related Articles:

• Common Corgi Health Complications
• Spinal Disease and Mobility Loss in Corgis
• The Benefits of a Small Dog Wheelchair
• What Causes Blindness in Dogs?
• Living By New Rules: Caring for a Blind Cat