7 Mistakes Every Corgi Owner Makes (And How to Avoid Them!)
So, you’ve got a corgi—or maybe you’re planning on getting one. Congrats! You’ve just signed up for a life full of short legs, big ears, and endless sass.
But let’s be real: owning a corgi isn’t just cuddles and cute Instagram photos. There are A LOT of potential dog owner mistakes out there.
Ready to find out what you’re doing wrong? Here are the seven most common mistakes corgi owners make—and how you can dodge them like a pro.
Mistake #1: Underestimating the Energy Levels
Think those tiny legs mean your corgi is a couch potato? HA! Nope. These dogs are herding machines wrapped in a furball disguise.
They need exercise—like, a lot of it.
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What Happens When You Slack Off?
If you skip walks or ignore their playtime needs, you’ll pay the price. Chewed-up furniture? Check. Endless barking? Double check. The guilt trip stare that screams, “Why do you hate fun?” Oh, you better believe it.
The Fix:
Get them moving. Daily walks are non-negotiable, and throwing in some fetch or agility games will do wonders. If your corgi seems like they could run a marathon and still have energy, you’re not alone. Embrace it—or prepare to suffer the consequences. 😉

Mistake #2: Ignoring Their Need for Mental Stimulation
Corgis are smart. Too smart. You know what happens when you mix high intelligence with boredom? Chaos. Absolute chaos.
Signs You’re Failing:
Your corgi starts opening drawers, escaping from crates, or barking at invisible squirrels. (Spoiler alert: they’re not crazy; they’re just smarter than you give them credit for.)
The Fix:
Puzzle toys, training sessions, and brain games. Keep their brains as busy as their paws. Bonus: training makes them feel useful, which is their favorite thing ever. Because, you know, herding instincts and all.

Mistake #3: Letting Them Boss You Around
Corgis may be small, but their egos? Gigantic. If you’re not careful, your little fluffball will try to run the show. Remember, they were bred to herd cattle, which means they’re natural leaders (and, let’s be honest, control freaks).
Common Power Moves:
- Refusing to come when called. (Because why should they stop chasing that squirrel?)
- Barking until you give in to whatever they want. (Oh, you thought you were in charge? Cute.)
- Herding you—yes, you—by nipping at your heels. Rude.
The Fix:
Set boundaries early and stick to them. Use positive reinforcement to teach commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “enough.” And whatever you do, don’t cave to their cute little faces when they demand another treat. You’re the boss here… theoretically.

Mistake #4: Overfeeding Them (Because Chubby Corgis Are Cute, Right?)
Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—or rather, the chunky corgi on your couch. Those adorable little loaves of bread are prone to weight gain, and an overweight corgi is an unhealthy corgi.
Why It’s a Big Deal:
Extra weight puts a ton of strain on their stubby legs and long backs. This can lead to joint problems, back pain, and serious issues like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
The Fix:
Stick to a healthy diet and avoid overfeeding. Measure their food, limit treats, and maybe skip the puppy dog eyes guilt trip. (Easier said than done, I know.) If you’re not sure about their portions, ask your vet—they’ll be happy to play food cop.
Mistake #5: Skipping Socialization
Corgis are naturally confident (read: bossy) dogs, but without proper socialization, they can become anxious or reactive. Want your corgi to freak out every time they see another dog? No? Didn’t think so.
Why This Happens:
Corgis are herding dogs, which means they’re wired to be alert and aware of their surroundings. If they don’t learn early that new people, pets, and situations are safe, they can go full-on “Karen mode” in public. Barking, lunging, or hiding? Not cute. Not fun.
The Fix:
Expose your corgi to new experiences early and often. Take them to puppy classes, parks, and anywhere they can meet friendly dogs and humans. Reward good behavior and stay patient—it’s a process. Just don’t let them rule the roost with their stubborn streak. (We’re watching you.)

Mistake #6: Neglecting Grooming (Spoiler: They Shed… A Lot)
Oh, you thought your corgi’s fluffy coat was low-maintenance? Bless your heart. Corgis are shed factories. They blow their coat twice a year (spring and fall) and sprinkle fur confetti the rest of the time. Neglecting their grooming needs isn’t just messy; it can lead to skin issues and a sad-looking pup.
Signs You’re Slacking:
- Fur tumbleweeds rolling through your house like you’re in a Wild West movie.
- Matted fur, which can be uncomfortable and even painful for your dog.
- Your vacuum wheezing and threatening to quit its job.
The Fix:
Brush them. A lot. Like, several times a week. Invest in a good deshedding tool, because cheap ones won’t stand a chance. Bathing them every couple of months (or as needed) also helps control shedding. Oh, and don’t forget to trim their nails and clean their ears—you’ll thank yourself later.

Mistake #7: Thinking Corgis Are “Just Dogs”
Let’s be real: corgis are not just any dogs. They’re basically tiny royalty with opinions about everything. If you treat them like your average pup, you’re gonna have a bad time. They’re stubborn, clever, and ridiculously charming—and they know it.
What This Looks Like:
- Skipping training because “they’re so cute, they don’t need to be perfect.”
- Forgetting that they’re working dogs and not just Instagram models. (Okay, they can be both, but you get the point.)
- Letting their sassiness slide because it’s funny—until it isn’t.
The Fix:
Treat your corgi like the special little gremlin they are. Put in the effort to train, socialize, and keep them active. Respect their quirks (and their need for structure) while also celebrating the fact that they’re basically the most adorable drama queens you’ll ever meet.

Final Thoughts: Love Your Sassy Loaf
Corgis are amazing. They’re goofy, loyal, and full of personality. But let’s not sugarcoat it—they’re also a handful. Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll have a happier, healthier, and way less stubborn furball on your hands.
At the end of the day, corgi ownership is a mix of patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor. Sure, they’ll test your limits (and probably steal your socks), but they’ll also fill your life with joy and laughter. And isn’t that why you got one in the first place?

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉