Pembroke Corgis are herding dogs with big appetites in a dwarf-breed body: long spine, short legs. They gain weight readily and it lands on a back that isn't built to carry it.
Ideal weight
| Sex | Ideal range |
|---|---|
| Male | 10–14 kg (22–31 lb) |
| Female | 10–13 kg (22–28 lb) |
Long back, big appetite. Like Dachshunds, Corgis have a long spine on short legs and are prone to back problems (IVDD). They're also intensely food-motivated herding dogs. Excess weight strains that long back and undercuts the exercise this working breed needs — keeping a Corgi lean protects both spine and temperament.
How to tell if your pet is overweight
- Feel for the ribs. Lay both hands flat on the ribcage; you should feel ribs easily under a thin layer without pressing.
- Look from above. There should be a clear waist tucking in behind the ribs; a straight or bulging outline means no waist.
- Check the side profile. The belly should tuck up behind the ribcage rather than hang level.
- Mind the back. A sagging, heavy midsection puts extra load on that long spine — a key reason to keep this breed lean.
What to do about it
- Weigh the food, don't scoop it. Eyeballing portions is the most common cause of overfeeding.
- Count treats as calories — keep them under 10% of daily intake; swap biscuits for carrot or green bean.
- Give real exercise and a job. This breed needs both physical and mental work to stay lean and content.
- Reweigh monthly. Safe loss is about 1–2% of body weight per week; involve your vet for an overweight pet.
See exactly how overweight — and what that'd be on you
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Open the weight calculatorFrequently asked
How much should a Corgi weigh?
Around 10–14 kg (22–31 lb); confirm with body-shape checks.
Why is weight bad for Corgis?
Their long back is prone to disc problems, and excess weight strains the spine while limiting needed exercise.
My Corgi always begs — normal?
Yes, they're very food-motivated herders; measure meals rather than feeding to the begging.