Corgi Training Overview: How to Train Your Corgi

Corgis, also known as Welsh Corgis, are a type of herding dog that originated in Wales. They’re known for their short legs, pointy ears, and full, fluffy bodies. There are two separate Corgi breeds, both of which fall under the larger umbrella of Welsh Corgis. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the more popular and slightly smaller of the two and is recognizable by its stubby tail and outgoing personality, while the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is larger and has a long tail.

Before you start obedience training, consider gathering the following training equipment:

• Clicker: Training clickers emit a distinctive clicking sound when pressed. You can condition your dog to associate the sound with the reward by triggering a click while simultaneously offering a treat. Some dogs can find the sound of the click scary at first, so it’s essential to muffle the sound with a towel initially. If a clicker is not your preferred option, you can use a verbal marker, like “yes!” Learn more about clicker training.
• Harness and leash: Harnesses attach around your dog’s body rather than their neck, reducing the chance of injury. Harnesses can be especially useful for smaller dogs like Corgis, whose necks can be susceptible to whiplash. Because of their unique body shape, measuring your Corgi is essential to ensure the correct harness size. You’ll want a six-foot leash for walking in urban areas or tethering your Corgi in the house and a longer leash (up to thirty feet) for training recall and walking in nature.
• Lure stick: These dog supplies are adjustable rods with a clip at the end for holding treats. They’re particularly helpful for training dogs that are smaller in size, like Corgis.
• Notebook: Use a notebook (or a note on your phone) to keep track of your Corgi’s training progress and your goals.
• Toys: Incorporating toys can make training fun, and they’re beneficial for dogs who aren’t as food-motivated. Toys can also be a great way to give your dog a break after an intense training session. Some dogs like balls, while others love tug toys, puzzle toys, flirt poles, or squeaky toys. Try a range of different styles of toys with your dog.
• Treat bag: Dog treat bags hold your dog’s favorite treats. Try attaching a treat pouch to your belt or wearing it over your shoulder for easy access, which can make it easier to reward your dog for performing tasks or good behavior. Give your dog different treats to see what they like, and then have a selection of high-value and low-value treats. If you teach your dog something tricky, have the high-value treats on hand to keep their focus on you. If they get too excited by the high-value treats, switch to the lower-value treats.

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends that all dogs receive positive reinforcement training, regardless of their breed. Follow these steps to train your Corgi using positive reinforcement:

1. 1. Identify your goals with training. If your Corgi is only a few weeks old, you may want to focus on basic commands, nipping, or potty training. Perhaps you have an adult dog with behavior issues, or you need to train your dog before a significant change like a new baby or pet. Maybe your goal is simply to teach your Corgi some new tricks. Being intentional with your training will help you achieve your goals.
2. 2. Find a dog trainer. A certified professional dog trainer can help you create a dedicated training plan. Since the dog training industry is unregulated, it’s essential to research anyone you’re considering for the job. Look for certifications and evidence of continued learning, and choose a trainer who makes you feel comfortable.
3. 3. Implement a behavior management system. While you work on teaching your Corgi new skills, use management methods to control their environment and prevent them from practicing unwanted behaviors. Use baby gates or tethers to keep your dog from jumping on guests or bolting out the front door, add privacy film to windows to prevent your dog from barking at passersby, or give your dog a food puzzle while you eat to stop unwanted begging.
4. 4. Meet your dog’s needs. Give your pooch safe outlets to practice normal dog behaviors like chewing, licking, and digging. If your Corgi has the natural instinct to herd, enroll them in a herding class. Provide them with appropriate daily exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of playtime, whether with you or other dogs.
5. 5. Create a training plan. One easy way to get started is to reward your Corgi with a treat whenever they perform a behavior you like. Enrolling them in training classes allows you to learn alongside your dog.

Here are some tips to make training sessions with your Corgi more successful:

1. 1. Keep a daily routine. A consistent daily routine will help your dog know what to expect at different times of the day. It will also help you stay on top of your training and enrichment goals. Learn how to make a schedule.
2. 2. Offer rewards for good behavior. Reinforce good behavior by rewarding your Corgi with treats, affection, playtime, or verbal praise.
3. 3. Seek professional help if needed. Talk to your vet about potential underlying medical issues if your Corgi exhibits any strange new behavior.
4. 4. Start training while they’re young. If your Corgi is a puppy, it’s an excellent opportunity to teach them while they’re impressionable. Housebreaking, leash training, crate training, and desensitization to grooming are all best learned early. Learn about the developmental puppy stages.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.