Corgi vs. Labrador: How do you choose? If you’re a first-time dog owner, the Labrador is your best bet. They’re easy to train, mild-mannered, and gentle family dogs you can rely on. Corgis are wonderful, loving, and energetic, but they need a more experienced hand in comparison.
Dogs are the best. That’s a fact, and nothing can change it. But when you’re thinking about getting a dog, you’re also hit with the fact there are loads of different breeds to choose from. Maybe you’ve been thinking about getting a Corgi but you’ve also heard they’re noisy, stubborn, and like to run rings around their owners (all very true).
In that case, you might also be considering the classic Labrador Retriever (or Lab). They’re the number one family dog, the top choice for guide dogs, and they’re great with kids. What could be better? But Corgis are also sweet and goofy, and their loyalty knows no bounds. So, how are you supposed to make this kind of decision?
I’ve got you covered in my guide to Corgi vs Labrador Retriever to see which breed is right for you. Let’s get into it.
Key Takeaways:
- Corgis and Labrador Retrievers are both fantastic British breeds
- Both breeds shed a lot and need regular grooming
- Corgis are definitely louder than Labs and have no volume control
- Labradors are more relaxed and easy-going, and they’re great with kids
- Both breeds are highly intelligent and make for excellent working dogs
What Are Corgis?
Corgis are working dogs that were bred in Wales for cattle herding and first appeared around a thousand years ago. They are one of the oldest dog breeds in the country, and there are two types to choose from – the Cardigan and Pembroke Corgi. While their temperaments and needs remain the same, there are some differences in terms of their build.
They are incredibly active dogs with a lot of energy, which is why they need a job and something to focus on to stop them from getting bored. Like Labradors, they come in a range of colors, some of which are less common than others (such as pure white Corgis). They’re incredibly smart and full of love, but they’re also stubborn and need structure.
What Are Labradors?
Labradors or Labrador Retrievers are they’re officially known, were bred in England from the now-extinct St John’s Water Dog. It’s actually part of why Labs are commonly mistaken as coming from Newfoundland in Canada – that was the origin of the St John’s Water Dog. In fact, it’s that ancestry that causes the white tuxedo pattern you often see on the chests of Lab mixes.
Their ancestors were used as fishing dogs, which is why modern Labs have a weather-resistant double coat and are so fond of swimming. However, their main use is as a hunting and gun dog, which is what they were originally bred for. Since then, they have also become the most popular family dog in the world.
What’s It Like Training A Corgi vs. Labrador?
Corgis can be a bit of a nightmare to train because of how stubborn, strong-willed, and independent they are. They will do what they can to get out of being obedient, and they need a firm hand with plenty of positive reinforcement if you want them to learn and retain information. They’re funny little dogs, but they’re great when they eventually listen.
Labrador Retrievers live to serve. They are biddable, calm, and pick things up quickly. The smallest reward is more than enough incentive for them, and they are ready to show you how good they are. They’re just easy, and this is part of why they are such a popular breed. They pick things up fast and actively want to listen.
Do Corgis Or Labradors Have More Energy?
Both breeds are energetic, but Corgis have a lot more energy to burn. While they are both herding dogs, Labrador Retrievers are primarily gun dogs, which means they need to be focused and calm until they are called to action. Corgis are cattle herders, giving them plenty of energy because they were made for rounding up cows.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you need to walk a Lab less. Both breeds need at least 60 minutes to walk every day to help keep their energy levels low and give them the physical exercise they need. They also need plenty of mental stimulation to stop them from getting bored and destructive as they are both highly intelligent.
Do Corgis Or Labradors Bark More?
Corgis are the winners here because they are very vocal. All they want to do is sing you a song, get your attention, and ensure you hear their demands. Yes, you can train the barking out of them, but you’ll never make them silent. Labs, on the other hand, are much quieter dogs that rarely bark, and usually only if someone is at the door.
Do Corgis Or Labradors Shed More?
Corgis and Labrador Retrievers actually need around the same amount of grooming because they shed just as badly as the other. Despite the fact that Labs have very short coats, they are double-coated like Corgis. This means they have a thick undercoat that sheds really badly twice a year in addition to the usual shedding.
Both breeds need to be brushed several times a week (ideally, 3-4 times) to keep their coats healthy and help prevent too much shedding. Trust me when I say that regular brushing will save you from having to pull out the vacuum every day.
What Are The Differences In Health Issues Between Corgis And Labradors?
Labradors come with a number of health issues that can cause problems at various points in their life. However, by choosing good breeders and health testing the parents, you can try to avoid some of them. Of course, it’s never a guarantee, and some of the bigger health issues you should look out for are:
- Hip dysplasia
- Chronic hepatitis
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Retinal dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart disease
Corgis have their fair share of health problems, and it’s part of what happens when dog breeds become popular and not all breeders adhere to regulations. However, that doesn’t mean your Corgi will get sick; you just need to choose a puppy carefully and be aware of potential issues. Some of the most common health problems include:
- Monorchidism
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- IVDD
- Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Which Is Better For First-Time Dog Owners?
Labs are definitely better for first-time dog owners. They’re some of the easiest dogs to train in the world, and they’re just as smart as Corgis, which means they pick things up fast. They are chilled and easy-going dogs, and they have a strong drive to please their owners. Plus, they’re easily motivated by treats and toys as rewards.
While Corgis are wonderful, they need more time and effort because of how stubborn they are. They are more independent than Labradors and they can be more difficult to train. There’s a reason Labs are picked to be guide dogs over every other breed, and it’s because they are versatile and very biddable.
What Are Corgis And Labradors Like With Pets And Children?
Corgis and Labs are both good with pets and children, but Labrador Retrievers are better. They are very calm and gentle dogs, which makes them well-suited to being around children and other pets.
While Corgis are just as loving, they are also very excitable and are more prone to nipping at the heels of young children and chasing smaller pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Corgis And Labradors Good In Apartments?
Both Corgis and Labrador Retrievers are good in apartments and can do well in small homes. The important thing is that you remember to exercise them regularly and take them outside so they can do their business and blow off steam. It only becomes a problem if they end up with pent-up energy that they are only able to release inside.
Are Corgis More Expensive Than Labrador Retrievers?
Yes, Corgis are often more expensive than Labrador Retrievers. While both breeds are popular, Corgis usually come with a higher price tag because they aren’t as commonly chosen as a family pet. Labs can be found for as little as $500 from a reputable breeder who is registered with the AKC.
Are Corgis And Labrador Retrievers Good Swimmers?
Corgis and Labrador Retrievers can make good swimmers, but Labs have a natural affinity for it. Swimming and water are etched into their DNA, which is why many Labs will do everything they can to get wet and in the water. They’re excellent at water retrieving games, and some Labs will even go diving for large blocks of clay or fish.
Final Thoughts
Labradors and Corgis are both fantastic dogs and whichever breed you choose is going to bring a lot of life and love into your home. However, if you are a first-time dog owner, it’s definitely best to go for the Lab over the Corgi as they are much more biddable, relaxed, and easygoing. Plus, they are great family dogs that do well with children of all ages.
Corgis have a stubborn streak that you can’t get rid of, and while they are not the hardest dogs in the world to manage, they do need a strict schedule and consistent training to keep them in line. They’re easier to handle when you have some experience owning dogs, and they can be mischievous creatures as well. They’re wonderful dogs, though, and one of my favorites.
