Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Irish Wolfhound

Herding · Small vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 30–38 lbs for the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.
  • The Cardigan Welsh Corgi typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Cardigan Welsh Corgi has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCardigan Welsh CorgiIrish Wolfhound
Group
HerdingHound
Size
SmallGiant
Origin
WalesIreland
Height (male)
10.5–12.5"32–34"
Height (female)
10.5–12.5"30–32"
Weight (male)
30–38 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
25–34 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumwirehaired
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 Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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Cardigan Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • IVDD
  • Eye disorders

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia