Corgi fever is real, but their popularity often means limited availability and higher prices. If you’re charmed by their short legs, perky ears, and big personalities, but struggling to find your perfect Corgi, don’t despair! This article explores seven captivating breeds that share similar traits with these delightful Welsh herding dogs. From fluffy spitz breeds to playful terriers, discover captivating alternatives that might just steal your heart and offer the same playful companionship you’re searching for.
Corgis have a rich history as herding dogs, dating back to the 10th century. Known for their ability to nip at the legs of cattle to keep herds in line, these “dwarf dogs,” as the Welsh name suggests, played a vital role in farming life.
There are two distinct types of Corgis: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, with its pointy ears and typically docked tail, and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, which has rounded ears and a longer tail. Both breeds share the same adorable short stature and strong-willed personalities, along with their iconic fox-like expressions that have captured hearts around the world. Despite their small size, Corgis have a loud bark, a trait that served them well in herding by helping move cattle.
Their intelligence, playful demeanor, and eagerness to please make Corgis a beloved breed among dog lovers. But if you’re drawn to these traits and want to explore similar breeds, you’re in luck!
This article highlights 7 dog breeds that share the Corgi’s charming personality, physical attributes, and affectionate nature—perfect for families looking for a dog with the same irresistible appeal as a Corgi.
Dog Breeds Similar to Corgi
1. Beagle
The Beagle, a small scent hound from England, was originally bred for tracking small game like rabbits and foxes, and while they still excel at hunting today, they’ve also become beloved companion dogs. Like Corgis, Beagles are incredibly devoted to their families and love being involved in all family activities. Both breeds share an active, upbeat, and confident personality, though they can also be a bit stubborn at times, making training a bit challenging.
Beagles and Corgis thrive on both physical and mental stimulation, keeping them busy and engaged. However, Beagles tend to be more sociable and friendly, while Corgis may take a bit longer to warm up to new people.
Beagles, as natural scent hounds, are led by their noses during walks, often distracted by interesting smells and eager to explore, which can make them difficult to recall. Both breeds have plenty of energy and stamina, making them great companions for long walks and active owners who can provide the daily exercise and activities they need to stay happy and healthy.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, or “Sheltie,” is a beloved breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and graceful appearance, winning the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. Like Corgis, Shelties are incredibly loyal, gentle, and affectionate companions, always eager to bond with their handlers.
Often resembling a miniature Rough Collie, Shelties share a herding background with Corgis, showcasing their natural talent for obedience and agility.
Both breeds thrive on human companionship and do best when a family member is home during the day or if they can join their owner at work. Shelties are highly trainable and excel in activities like herding and agility, making them an ideal choice for those who appreciate a smart, active, and loving dog.
3. Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund shares many similarities with the Corgi, starting with their distinctive long and low bodies, short powerful legs, and muscular build. Both breeds are intelligent and highly enthusiastic about work, making them natural herders. Like Corgis, Swedish Vallhunds are clever, alert, and full of energy, often making excellent watchdogs due to their keen senses and tendency to notify their families of anything unusual.
Family-oriented and affectionate, Swedish Vallhunds love spending time with their human companions, but if left lonely or bored, they can develop destructive behaviors. With their high energy levels and remarkable stamina, they need plenty of physical activity to stay happy—at least an hour of rigorous play each day is recommended.
Similar to Corgis, they have a strong herding instinct and may try to round up children or small pets, and their natural tendency to nip means they might not be the best fit for homes with very young children. However, for active families looking for a loyal and energetic companion, the Swedish Vallhund is a wonderful choice.
4. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or “Toller,” is a gundog often mistaken for a Corgi due to its smaller stature. Like Corgis, Tollers are intelligent, affectionate, and full of energy, making them excellent companions for active families.
Originally bred for hunting, Tollers are known for their unique ability to lure ducks within range of hunters, but today they are beloved family pets who enjoy participating in all sorts of activities. Their eagerness to please and versatility mirror the Corgi’s work ethic and playful nature.
Friendly and affectionate, Tollers thrive in families with children and usually get along well with other dogs, though they can be naturally reserved around strangers. Like Corgis, they are playful and always on the go, needing plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Early socialization is key, especially since their high prey drive may make them more inclined to chase smaller animals.
5. American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog, or “Eskie,” is a charming and friendly breed that, despite its name, actually hails from Germany. Like Corgis, Eskies have a lion-like ruff around their chest and shoulders, though it’s much thicker than that of a Corgi, and they also sport an adorable, smiling face.
Available in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, Eskies are playful, social, and affectionate companions, making them wonderful family pets. Just like Corgis, American Eskimo Dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable, especially in obedience and agility activities.
However, they do require plenty of attention and mental stimulation—if not given enough outlets for their energy, they can develop problem behaviors. Their affectionate and alert nature, along with their eagerness to bond with their owners, sets them apart from other northern breeds, making them ideal for those looking for a loyal, trainable, and loving companion.
6. Dachshund
The Dachshund, often called the Wiener Dog, Sausage Dog, or Doxie, is a small German scent hound with short legs and an elongated body, originally bred to hunt animals like rabbits and foxes. Like Corgis, Dachshunds share the distinctive long body and short legs, traits developed for hunting.
Both breeds are known for their playful, courageous, and persistent personalities, making them great companions for those who love an energetic and spirited dog.
Dachshunds come in two sizes and three coat types, providing a variety similar to the two Corgi breeds. Their loyalty and protective nature mirror the qualities that make Corgis such beloved pets. However, while Dachshunds typically have short, easy-to-maintain coats, Corgis have longer, denser fur that requires more regular brushing and occasional grooming.
7. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound, originally bred in France as a hunting companion, is a medium-sized hound with a long, low body and short legs, similar to the Corgi’s distinctive stature. With their long, droopy ears, wrinkled foreheads, and sad-looking eyes, Basset Hounds have a unique and endearing appearance.
Known for their gentle, affectionate nature, these dogs make wonderful family pets, much like Corgis. Though slightly larger, Basset Hounds share the Corgi’s playful enthusiasm, but with a more laid-back, calm demeanor.
Their sociable and loving temperament makes them great companions for those who appreciate Corgi’s friendly nature but prefer a dog with a lower energy level. As a hound, Basset Hounds are also known for their stubbornness, which can make training a challenge.
Conclusion
If you’re drawn to the Corgi’s personality and physical traits, there are several other dog breeds that share similar qualities, making them excellent alternatives. From herding breeds like the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd to the loyal and protective German Shepherd, these medium-sized dogs are great family dogs known for their intelligence and energy.
Like Corgis, many of these dogs come from the herding group, meaning they require proper training and plenty of mental stimulation to stay happy. Other dog breeds, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Golden Retriever, offer affectionate companionship and can be great with children and other pets, making them ideal for family homes.
Whether you’re considering a small dog or a medium-sized dog, each breed has unique traits to match your lifestyle. While Border Collies and German Shepherds excel in dog sports and herding, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and lap dogs bring a more relaxed vibe, perfect for quieter homes. Most dogs in this category, including Corgis, Australian Shepherds, and other breeds, are generally healthy, though some are prone to conditions like hip dysplasia.
Ultimately, finding the best dog for your family comes down to understanding the two distinct breeds you’re interested in and ensuring you can provide the care, exercise, and affection they need to thrive.
Ultimately, several breeds share charming similarities with the beloved Corgi, offering appealing alternatives for prospective owners. Whether you’re drawn to the spirited herding instincts, the compact and sturdy build, or the playful and affectionate personality, breeds like the Swedish Vallhund, Lancashire Heeler, or Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s cousin, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, provide comparable companionship. Considering these alternatives allows individuals to find the perfect short-legged, big-hearted companion to suit their lifestyle and preferences. Researching each breed’s unique traits is crucial for a successful and fulfilling partnership.
