Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Irish Terrier

Herding · Small vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the larger breed at 30–38 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCardigan Welsh CorgiIrish Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
WalesIreland
Height (male)
10.5–12.5"18"
Height (female)
10.5–12.5"18"
Weight (male)
30–38 lbs27 lbs
Weight (female)
25–34 lbs25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years13–15 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)Very Low (1/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.

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Cardigan Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • IVDD
  • Eye disorders

Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders