Despite the breed's small size, Cardigan Welsh Corgi exercise requirements are fairly extensive. As herding dogs, Cardis need both physical conditioning in the form of walks or fetch, and mental stimulation through games, learning tricks, or canine sports.
An adult Cardi, depending on its age and activity level, will actually need about an hour of dedicated exercise each day; a long walk or two and a good period of play should do the trick. You can start exercising your Cardi puppy when it's 2½-3 months old by taking it on short (5-minute) walks, then you can increase the walks' length and frequency as the puppy grows.
Some precautions for Cardigan Corgi exercise: first, puppies younger than eight months old shouldn't exercise too strenuously, as doing so can injure their still-developing joints and bones. Because of their short legs and long backs, jumping from high places is especially dangerous for these dogs (especially younger ones)--so make sure your Cardi isn't allowed to leap off tall objects like furniture. It's also recommended that owners leash their Cardis when out in public. Since they have strong herding instincts, Cardis will try to control moving objects--people, animals, bicyclists--by "nipping" at them, so a leash will help control that tendency.
In addition to regular exercise, Cardis need close supervision of their diets. These dogs will overeat if given the chance, leading to obesity and poor health--so owners are advised to carefully measure their Cardis' meal portions (about ¾ cup of premium dry food for adults is recommended), and it's good to have a consistent feeding schedule.
Safeguards aside, it's important to exercise your Cardigan Corgi every single day. Breed members are active and intelligent--which means that without consistent activity they'll make their own "fun," usually in the form of destructiveness and excessive barking. Regular exercise will be great for both the dog's and your own peace of mind! A few exercise ideas:
- Walking: Two 20-minute walks per day is a good target
- Fetch: These dogs will love chasing a ball or stick
- Hide-and-Seek: Good indoor activity; give the dog a treat when it finds you
- Canine Sports: Cardis can excel at obedience or agility trials and other events
- Laser Pointer: Your Cardi will go nuts chasing that "little red dot"
When indoors (which is where these dogs prefer to live), give your Cardi access to balls or toys that allow the dog to burn excess energy. It's also good to have a regular exercise schedule for the dog, such as walks after breakfast and dinner and a play period in the afternoon.
