Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Icelandic Sheepdog

Herding · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the larger breed at 30–38 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Icelandic Sheepdog.
  • The Cardigan Welsh Corgi typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Cardigan Welsh Corgi sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCardigan Welsh CorgiIcelandic Sheepdog
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
WalesIceland
Height (male)
10.5–12.5"17.5–18"
Height (female)
10.5–12.5"16.5–17"
Weight (male)
30–38 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
25–34 lbs25–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a loyal, smart, affectionate herding dwarf with a long tail — Pembroke's older, mellower cousin. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 30–38 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, affectionate.

About the Icelandic Sheepdog

The Icelandic Sheepdog is a friendly, hardy, herding Spitz from Iceland — the country's only native breed, brought by Vikings. Originally from Iceland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, hardy, cheerful.

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Cardigan Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • IVDD
  • Eye disorders

Icelandic Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders