Corgis big personalities and cute stubby legs make them fan favorites, but anyone who’s tried teaching them basic commands knows it’s not always smooth sailing. Their herding instincts run deep—originally bred to round up cattle—so they often think for themselves instead of following orders blindly. A Corgi might ignore your “sit” command to chase a squirrel or nudge your hand for treats, turning training sessions into a test of patience.
Before diving into training, check your local laws: many areas require dogs to complete basic obedience classes, and some have leash laws that apply even to small breeds like Corgis. Their stubborn streak can make following these rules trickier—for example, a Corgi might pull hard on the leash during walks, not out of defiance, but because their herding brain tells them to lead the way. Skipping training here could land you in trouble with local regulations.
Another challenge is their high energy levels paired with a short attention span. Corgis love to play, but they’ll lose interest in training if it feels like a chore. A 10-minute session with plenty of treats and praise works better than a 30-minute drill—push them too hard, and they’ll shut down entirely. This ties back to positive reinforcement, a key behavior theory: rewarding good behavior beats scolding, especially with a breed as sensitive as Corgis.
Corgis also have a tendency to “herd” their owners or other pets, which can look like nipping at heels or circling. While it’s a natural trait, it’s not socially acceptable in most households. Training them to redirect this energy—say, to a chew toy instead of your ankles—takes consistency. Remember, local animal control might receive complaints about nipping, so fixing this behavior isn’t just about manners—it’s about staying compliant.
Many new Corgi owners underestimate the importance of early socialization, which makes training harder later on. A Corgi that hasn’t met other dogs or people as a puppy might become anxious or reactive, making commands like “come” nearly impossible in busy areas. Most cities have puppy socialization classes that double as compliance checks, so enrolling your Corgi early helps with both training and following local rules.
Training a Corgi takes time, but it’s worth it to build a strong bond and keep them safe. By working with their herding instincts instead of against them, using positive reinforcement, and staying on top of local laws, you’ll have a well-behaved pup that’s a joy to be around. Remember, every Corgi is different—what works for one might not work for another, so stay flexible and patient.