Cardigan Welsh Corgi Medical Conditions
by Jenny Bullock
        Cardigan Welsh Corgis originated as herding/working dogs as such; they are generally study, hardy, healthy dogs. As with any breed of dog they are prone to some disorders - although a well bred dog from a sound healthy bloodline is you best assurance of having a healthy lifetime friend.
        One note for prospective Cardigan owners - these dogs do tend to be food driven, often described as beyond common sense. Obesity is of major concern. Diet and exercise can help you avoid the possible ramifications of letting your dog become overweight.

 
Bilateral Cataracts

         Cataracts in dogs can be identified as opaque spots on the lens of the eye.  These spots may cause total or partial loss of vision.  Some cataracts are hereditary while others are not.   In some cases surgery may help the dog recover.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Bilateral Cataracts.

Hip Dysplasia
       Hip Dysplasia is the result of the malformation of the hip joint(s).  This condition is a common difficulty in most of the large dog breeds.  This condition is both genetic and environmentally influenced.
        Be sure that both parents of any Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy you are considering purchasing is certified by OFA or Penn Hip to be free of Hip Dysplasia.
        Over-feeding, over-exercise and injury while young may also contribute to your puppy damaging (leading to degeneration) his hips.

For further information please see: Medical Iindex/Hip Dysplasia.


Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
        Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) are among the most common eye problems in Pembroke Welsh Corgis. These conditions usually begin to display symptoms at about 2 years of age.  They are progressive in their degeneration. Both conditions are believed to be hereditary. Both parents should have CERF certification proof, when looking to purchase a pup.

For further information please see: Medical Index/Progressive Retinal Atrophy.


von Willebrand's Disease (vWD)
       von Willebrand's disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder.  It impacts the dog's ability to clot blood (similar to hemophilia).  This disorder is found in both males and females.

For further information please see : Medical/von Willebrand's Disease.

 
Degenerative Disc Disease
        Pembroke Welsh Corgis are prone to degenerative disc disease although some bloodlines appear to have higher a incidence of this problem than others.  Dogs with Spinal problems should never be used for breeding.  Dogs producing offspring with spinal abnormalities should be spayed or neutered.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Degenerative Disc Disease.

 
Degenerative Myelopathy
       Generally appearing in middle-aged dogs degenerative myelopathy is relatively rare in Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Triggered by the body's auto-immune system, a progressive degeneration of the spinal cord occurs. Beginning with the hind limbs this disease progressively weakens the entire body.
For further information please see : Medical Index/Degenerative Myelopathy.

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