Corgis and Dachshunds have lots of in common. They’re both small dogs with big personalities. Both can be very vocal and, despite their size, both require lots of exercise.
Deciding whether a Corgi or Dachshund is right for you really comes down to how small you’re willing to go. With so much in common, the only stand-out differences between the two breeds is how much they shed and their size. Corgis are slightly larger than standard Dachshunds and shed more heavily.
Let’s take a closer look at how the two breeds compare.
Differences between Corgis and Dachshunds
With so many similarities between these two breeds, it’s easier to focus on what sets them apart to help you make your decision.
Dachshunds are moderate shedders that need minimal brushing. Corgis, on the other hand, shed every single day. If you’re unable to regularly groom your dog or hate the sight of hair, a Corgi probably isn’t the dog for you.
Dachshunds are smaller than Corgis. A standard Dachshund is usually 16 to 32 pounds and a miniature Dachshund is 11 pounds or less.
A Cardigan Welsh Corgi ranges from 25 to 38 pounds and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi ranges from 27 to 30 pounds.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Training
Both Corgis and Dachshunds can be stubborn little dogs. However, Dachshunds are just that little bit more stubborn and therefore can be harder to train than Corgis. Still, it’s nothing that persistence and patience can’t fix!
As they have shorter attention spans, experts recommend that you break down the training sessions of Dachshunds into 10-minute portions. About two or three sessions of training every day should do the trick.
Positive rewards-based training works well for both breeds as does early socialization. This is key if Corgis and Dachshunds are to grow up into healthy, happy adult dogs.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Energy
Both dog breeds are pretty energetic despite their small size and will need more than just the occasional run in your backyard.
Corgis love physical activity and thrive when they have a job to do—particularly Welsh Corgis. They’re also highly intelligent, which means they excel at activities like obedience training and games that make them think. For example, interactive puzzle toys.
Dachshunds require less mental stimulation than Corgis to stay happy, but both breeds require a minimum of 60 minutes exercise per day.
One thing to watch out for in both breeds are health problems related to their short legs and long backs. It’s really important to prevent both Corgis and Dachshunds from jumping down off the bed or couch, or regularly running up and down stairs.
This kind of activity risks damaging their joints or slipping discs in their backs, which can have severe consequences.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Shedding
Corgis are heavy shedders, especially during their shedding season. Dachshunds, however, are moderate shedders. This is definitely something to consider if you’re someone who suffers from allergies.
Thanks to their heavy shedding, Corgis require frequent brushing. In addition to this, periodic bathing and trimming of their coat will help keep your Corgi’s hair shiny and healthy.
When it comes to Dachshunds, their grooming requirements vary depending on their coat type. Naturally, long-haired varieties will need more work to brush and take care of, unlike those with shorter hair.
Also, those with a smooth coat will require more effort than dogs with a wiry coat. You can simply brush the former with a hound glove regularly. The latter may do well with hand-stripping a few times per year.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Barking
It’s hard to determine which dog breed is noisier because both are certified barkers!
Corgis are pretty vocal dogs and some will bark at almost anything. The same goes for Dachshunds; they have loud barks that have evolved after decades of being bred as hunting dogs.
Excessive barking can easily be managed with consistent training. However, if you’re unable to commit to training and the thought of a loud bark fills you with dread, these little dogs might not be for you.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: How Long Can They Be Left Alone?
Corgis do a slightly better job of handling their alone time than Dachshunds.
Corgis are ok to be left alone for up to 8 hours very ocassionally. However, I don’t recommend leaving them alone for more than 3-4 hours at a time. This is because, like Dachshunds, Corgis love human companionship. They’re clingy dogs that thrive on human affection.
Being left alone frequently can lead to depression and even behavioral problems like excessive barking and separation anxiety.
If you have a busy schedule or work away from home, consider getting a dog sitter or finding a local doggy day care centre if you decide to get either a Corgi or a Dachshund.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Which Is Better for a First Time Owner?
Both Corgis and Dachshunds make great dogs for first time owners.
If you can commit to regular training and are able to provide them lots of interaction (not leave them alone for long periods of time), then either breed is a good choice.
You also don’t need to worry about whether you live in an apartment or a house. As long as they get enough exercise, Corgis and Dachshunds are happy living anywhere.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Other Animals and Children
Corgis and Dachshunds are generally very social dogs that get along well with other dogs and cats. As long as you introduce them gradually (ideally when they’re a puppy), you should have no problems mixing either breed with your existing pets.
When it comes to children, both breeds make great companions thanks to their playfulness and size. Just make sure that they’re trained from an early age to prevent them becoming domineering around little ones.
It’s worth nothing that Corgis are probably a better choice for older kids that play a little too roughly for Dachshunds.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Health Problems
Short dogs with little legs and long backs, both Corgis and Dachshunds are prone to similar spine- and joint-related issues like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) and hip dysplasia.
To minimize the risk of health problems, it’s essential to monitor both dog breeds’ weight. Watch their food portion sizes and ensure they get regular exercise to prevent obesity.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Are They Good in Apartments?
Yes, Corgis and Dachshunds make great apartment dogs. As long as they get enough physical and mental stimulation, a garden isn’t essential to keep these two breeds happy.
Corgi vs. Dachshund: Which Is More Expensive?
You can expect to pay around $1500-$2500 for a Dachshund and $1000-$2000 for a Corgi.
