Corgis—those stubby-legged, big-eared bundles of joy—have a way of stealing hearts with their wiggly butts and endless curiosity. But if you’ve spent any time around these pups, you might’ve heard whispers about their hips. The short answer? Yes, corgis are more likely to face hip issues than some other breeds, and it’s mostly down to their unique build. Those iconic short legs and long bodies throw extra pressure on their hip joints, a combo that can spell trouble over time.
Vets often point to genetics as the biggest culprit. Many corgis inherit a tendency toward hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit snugly, causing rubbing and wear. It’s not just bad luck—irresponsible breeding plays a role too. Reputable breeders will screen parent dogs for hip health, sharing official scores from organizations that evaluate joint health. If you’re getting a corgi puppy, ask to see those records; it’s one of the best ways to lower the risk.
Weight matters more for corgis than you might think. Those round tummies are adorable, but extra pounds cram even more stress onto their hips. A corgi carrying just a few extra pounds can feel it in their joints, making walks slower and playtime less fun. Stick to measured meals of high-quality dog food, and skip the table scraps—those little “treats” add up fast. Most vets recommend keeping corgis on the lean side, even if they give you those puppy eyes at mealtime.
Exercise is a balancing act. Corgis love to zoom—they were bred to herd cattle, after all—but too much of the wrong kind can hurt their hips. Avoid letting them bound up and down stairs constantly, and skip intense jumps during play. Instead, opt for short, steady walks or gentle games of fetch on soft grass. Swimming is a great low-impact option too; it lets them burn energy without straining those joints. Your vet can help tailor a routine that keeps them fit without overdoing it.
Early checkups can be game-changers. Most vets suggest a hip exam by 6 months old, even if your corgi seems fine. X-rays can spot signs of trouble before your pup starts limping, giving you time to act. Some pet insurance plans cover these screenings, which is worth looking into—catching issues early often means simpler, cheaper care. Plus, staying on top of vet visits keeps you compliant with local rules that require regular health checks for dogs.
Hip dysplasia isn’t a death sentence, though. Many corgis live happy, active lives with proper management. Supplements like glucosamine might help support joint health—ask your vet which ones are right for your pup. Physical therapy, like gentle stretches or massage, can keep their hips mobile. And if things do get severe, there are surgical options that can restore comfort. The key is staying proactive, not panicking.
What really matters is loving them while keeping their hips in mind. That means trading a few extra treats for a game of tug-of-war (on soft ground, of course), or carrying them up the stairs when they’re tired. Corgis don’t ask for much—just your time and a little care to keep those hips happy. After all, every waddle, every zoom across the yard, every snuggle on the couch is worth protecting.
Watching your dog scratch until their skin turns raw is one of the hardest parts of pet parenthood. That constant itch, those red patches, the way they can’t settle—skin allergies in dogs feel like a never-ending battle.
It’s a quiet evening in your Chicago apartment, and you’re approaching your 2-year-old rescue dog, Max, to refill his water bowl.
Dry, flaky skin on your pup's coat isn't just unsightly—it can itch, too. You've probably noticed those tiny white specks on their bed or your couch, and you want to help without harsh chemicals. Let's break down what works, naturally.
The decision to put a 13-year-old dog through surgery gnaws at every pet owner's heart, tangled in equal parts hope and hesitation.
Hip dysplasia doesn,t discriminate, but some dog breeds carry a heavier genetic burden than others. It,s a condition where the hip joint fails to form properly, causing pain, stiffness, and eventually arthritis.
Corgis—those stubby-legged, big-eared bundles of joy—have a way of stealing hearts with their wiggly butts and endless curiosity. But if you've spent any time around these pups, you might've heard whispers about their hips.
