Cardigan Welsh Corgi vs Papillon

Herding · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the larger breed at 30–38 lbs (males) vs 5–10 lbs for the Papillon.
  • The Papillon typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Papillon sheds less.
  • The Papillon is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCardigan Welsh CorgiPapillon
Group
HerdingToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
WalesFrance
Height (male)
10.5–12.5"8–11"
Height (female)
10.5–12.5"8–11"
Weight (male)
30–38 lbs5–10 lbs
Weight (female)
25–34 lbs5–10 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years14–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Papillon

The Papillon is a friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums. Originally from France, this toy toy breed typically weighs 5–10 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, alert, happy.

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Cardigan Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • IVDD
  • Eye disorders

Papillon health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Dental issues
  • Progressive retinal atrophy