Intervertebral Disc Disease
With their short legs and long backs, it is no surprise that Corgis suffer from problems with their spines. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) occurs when the discs that sit in between the vertebrae of the spinal column bulge or rupture and press on the spinal cord. When the spinal cord is compressed this can lead to pain, weakness, bladder and bowel control issues and in the most severe cases - paralysis. Treatment can range from cage rest and pain relief to spinal surgery although successful treatment is not always guaranteed. The best way to reduce the chances of a Corgi developing IVDD is to keep them at a healthy weight as excess weight puts more pressure on their spine.
Von Willebrand's Disease
Von Willebrand's disease is a commonly inherited bleeding disorder in both humans and dogs. It is rarely seen in cats. This disease is characterised by a defect in the clotting factor, the Von Willebrand's factor, which normally acts as the 'glue' in holding platelets together to form a clot to stop the bleeding. Dogs with von Willebrand's disease may appear quite normal until they show prolonged or excessive bleeding after injury or surgery. Spontaneous bleeding can occur in more severe cases, with noticeable bruising or bleeding from the nose without any history of trauma. The severity of bleeding can vary within this disease, ranging from mild to severe.
Eye Problems
The most common eye problems in corgis are cataracts, glaucoma, and primary lens luxation. The symptoms of these diseases include cloudiness in the eye, changes in behaviour and gradual loss of sight. These eye diseases can be treated and, in many cases, early diagnosis and treatment can save your Corgi's sight.
Related Breeds
Dachshund
Wire haired dachshunds are still known as "Teckels" in many parts of the world and have similar ancestors to the Corgi. Both breeds have distinctive short legs and long bodies, however, Dachshunds were developed as hunting and not herding dogs.
Samoyed
Samoyed belong to the Spitz family which was crossed with the original Cardigan Corgi to produce the Pembroke Corgi. This breed originated from Siberia and was used by the Samoyede tribe to pull sleds and herd reindeer. The reindeer they herded were under the Samoyed's protection. The dogs also hunted game and protected the tribe from predators. They lived closely with the tribe and slept in their tents, developing a love of family life.
Schipperke
Originating in Belgium, these fearless and devoted little black dogs are best known for guarding the barges that travelled the canals between Brussels and Antwerp. Surprisingly, they were bred as a small version of a Belgian sheepdog and Schipperke is thought to come from a word meaning "little shepherd".
