These dogs, according to the RKF standard, have several color options. Among them: fawn, red, sable, marble, brindle, black with white spots and tan, etc. Pets cannot be monochromatic. Only combinations of several colors are allowed. The black corgi is not a separate breed, but only a representative of a certain color, not permitted by the standard.

We will learn about the origin of these animals, consider their temperament and behavior, the specifics of education and training. We will find out how well they get along with other pets, owners and children, and also consider aspects related to care and diet. The article will also tell you how to choose a corgi puppy.

Basic Facts About Black Corgis

These short-legged dogs have a number of specific features that make them unique and different from others:

Recognizable exterior. Funny pets have a cute appearance and natural charm. They often attract the attention of passers-by with their appearance.

Love for children. They love spending time with them. They can be a great nanny for kids, looking after them and protecting them from danger. Good-natured and peaceful animals never show aggression. Affectionate and patient nature makes them wonderful companions for families with children.

Excellent intelligence. Pets are very curious and observant. They quickly learn new things and easily remember commands. They have good intuition and sense a person’s mood.

Loyalty to owners. Black Corgis , like other representatives of the breed, are very loyal. They need constant communication with people.

Tendency to obesity. Dogs love to eat a lot and are ready to constantly beg for treats. To eliminate the risk of weight gain, it is important to carefully monitor their diet and prevent overeating.

Heavy shedding. The animals have a double coat. They need to be brushed two to three times a week, and daily during shedding.

Long lifespan. Pets are distinguished by their longevity. On average, they live 12-15 years.

Historical background

Despite their compact size, the dogs are classified as shepherds. Their homeland is considered to be England. They are among the oldest British breeds.

Historical sources indicate that the pets were brought to Northern Europe in the 9th century by the Vikings. Local residents used them to herd farm animals. The brave pets protected herds from predators, working harmoniously in a team with their relatives. They were in great demand, as they replaced shepherds and easily coped with their tasks on their own.

At the beginning of the 20th century, corgis were officially divided into two types – Pembrokes and Cardigans. The latter differ from their counterparts in their larger size, as well as more docile behavior.

They were first presented at a London exhibition in the 1920s. The jury gave preference to the Pembrokes. In 1925, a club for their fans was founded, and a year later, a club for cardigan fans.

The dogs became especially famous in the 1930s, when Elizabeth II noticed them. She had about 30 of these pets. Since then, they have been considered a royal breed and have taken part in ceremonial events.

The first animals were brought to Russia from Europe in the 90s of the last century. Now they are very popular all over the world, they are kept as pets, thanks to their friendliness, charm and cute appearance.

Description of appearance

As stated in the standard, black corgis belong to the group of “cattle and herding dogs”. The dog is distinguished by its medium size. Its height is 25-30 cm, and its weight reaches 12 kg. The main difference between cardigans and pembrokes is their size. The former look larger.

The main features of the animal are a double coat, erect ears, short legs, an elongated body and a strong build.

The head is fox-like, the skull is long and wide. The neck is of medium length, well developed, with pronounced muscles. The chest appears moderately wide.

The eyes are round and set straight. The iris and eyelids are dark. The nose is narrowed, the lobe is black. The ears are medium-sized, erect, and have a rounded shape. The jaws are strong, with a scissor bite.

The tail is long and level with the back line. There are also dogs with a genetic feature, their tail can be short from birth. Usually, Pembrokes have a bobtail.

Both the front and back legs are powerful and short. The paws are oval, the toes are tightly closed. The fur is of medium length, thick, there is an undercoat. The pile is hard and straight, does not stick out in different directions.

Black color in corgi

The most common color of dogs is red tan, with white markings on the chest, head, neck, muzzle and paws. Black color on the body should prevail. Its presence is mandatory on the sides and back. Solid black pets are rejected from breeding due to non-compliance with the breed standard.

The black color is considered to be the result of gene regulation that affects the color of the dog’s fur, skin, mucous membranes, and iris. The gene responsible for the dark color of the corgi is considered recessive. This means that in order for it to manifest, it needs a similar pair.

Puppies of this color appear in the following cases: if both parents are carriers of the black gene; when both mother and father are black; when mating a black animal and a carrier of the black gene.

Other colors

These animals have several color variations.

According to the standard, Pembroke fur comes in the following shades:

Fawn. May vary from light golden to dark beige. White markings are acceptable.
Red. The main tone is red. White spots may be present on the muzzle, neck, belly, paws and head.

Sable. The main color can vary from chestnut and copper to light fawn. Black patches on the back and neck are acceptable, as well as white on the belly, chest and paws.
Tan. The main color is dark with red tan markings. White spots are allowed.

The Cardigan Corgi’s coat comes in the following colors:

Blue marble. The main shade is dark gray. It is complemented by numerous dark marks all over the body. White is present on the chest and paws.

Tiger. The main tone is dark, complemented by red. The latter can vary in saturation from bright red to pale yellow.

Sable and red. In these cases the color is the same as that of Pembrokes.

Tricolor. A combination of three different colors. Most often these are: white, black, and red. The presence of brindle is also allowed. Dark color is considered predominant.

Breed character and temperament

The black corgi is a wonderful companion who loves to be both among people and surrounded by other pets. He is cheerful, peaceful, sociable and not at all conflict-prone. He treats strangers with distrust, but does not show aggression.

Animals are characterized by such character traits as good nature, friendliness and patience. They get along well with children and can become an excellent nanny for little ones, looking after them and protecting them from danger. However, leaving a dog with small children unattended is still not a good idea.

Such pets are very loyal. They are devoted to their owners, strive to please them and have a hard time being alone. They also have good intuition and sense a person’s mood.

These pets are also very playful and love to be on the move. They will be good companions for those who prefer an active lifestyle. At the same time, dogs do not need a lot of physical activity. It is enough to walk them regularly at a moderate pace. However, if they are not given the opportunity to expend energy, they can exhibit destructive behavior.

In general, black Cardigan Corgis are calmer, more serious and cautious, while Pembrokes are quite emotional and sometimes stubborn.

Issues of education and training of the breed

Dogs have a high level of intelligence. They are curious, smart and observant. They learn new information quite quickly.

The training of a pet begins from a very early age. If it is not trained, then in the future it will become spoiled and disobedient.

Already at two or three months, puppies are ready to perform simple tasks. It is better to conduct training in the form of a game, otherwise they may get bored. Cynologists advise starting training with 5-10 minutes. With age, their duration gradually increases.

First, you need to accustom the animal to its name, feeding and sleeping place, toilet and hygiene procedures. You also need to determine the daily routine.

Correctly executed commands should be rewarded. For this purpose, tasty treats can be used. They can be purchased in specialized stores.

It should be taken into account that black Pembroke Corgis, like their other counterparts, are prone to disobedience. Therefore, it is important to show endurance, patience and persistence during training. In contrast, Cardigans are more reserved and docile. However, both can easily master any skills with the right approach to training.

Care and nutrition

These pets are very clean. Their fur does not have an unpleasant smell. It is hard and has a water-repellent property, for this reason dogs do not need to be bathed often. The coat itself is thick and has an average length. It is better to comb it with a special brush 2-3 times a week, and during the shedding period (spring and autumn) – daily.

You can wipe the eyes daily by soaking a cotton pad in a special lotion. A new pad should be used for each eye. Claws are trimmed as they grow. Also, do not forget to clean the ears from dirt and teeth from plaque. Regular oral hygiene procedures will help to avoid dental problems.

The health of a pet is closely connected with the correct diet selected for it. Therefore, the menu for a pet should be made by a specialist – a nutritionist or a veterinarian. The owner can offer the pet natural products or ready-made food. It is not worth mixing the two types of food.

The first option is not considered the easiest, as it assumes that the owner will prepare food for the pet every day. The natural diet may include lean meats and fish, cereals and vegetables. At the same time, you should not ignore the vitamin supplements that the veterinarian will select.

Experts advise feeding dogs with ready-made complete products. On any package of such food you can find a table indicating what portion a dog needs depending on its individual characteristics.

Babies under six months need to be fed five to seven times a day, and adults – two to three. The main rule is not to offer your pet more than required. This can provoke a gain of extra kilos.

The maintenance of black corgis is no different from their relatives of other colors. They can live both in rural areas and in the city. However, they are not suitable for enclosure maintenance.

As soon as the puppy arrives at a new place of residence, you need to arrange a place for him to sleep and feed. Buy in advance enough diapers on which the baby will go to the toilet.

You can go outside only after all vaccinations have been given. It is enough to walk 2-3 times a day. Thanks to the undercoat, dogs are not afraid of frost, so they can do without clothes in winter.

Health and possible diseases

This breed is not prone to many genetic diseases and health problems. Black Corgis live an average of 12-15 years.

Dogs have a tendency to gain extra pounds, so it is important not to let them overeat. Excess body weight can have a negative effect on joints, spine and general well-being.

Pets are also prone to problems with their vertebrae due to their body type. For this reason, they should not jump from heights or engage in strenuous physical activity. Elderly pets are most vulnerable, and they can suffer more serious injuries.

Who is this breed for?

These funny dogs are very cheerful and good-natured. They can become ideal companions for those who dream of a sociable and energetic pet with a cute appearance and a friendly nature.

They are very sociable and quickly become attached to people, easily make contact with other animals. They love to be the center of attention.

What to consider when choosing a black puppy?

If you are planning to buy a black corgi, you need to approach this issue responsibly. Find an experienced reliable breeder or a proven nursery. Study reviews about them in advance. You should not choose an animal based on a photo sent by the seller, this is a risky step that can result in the purchase of a mongrel or a puppy with pathologies.

Before choosing a dog, pay attention to its exterior and condition. Healthy puppies look cheerful, active and moderately well-fed, their eyes cannot be red, and their fur cannot be bald. Ears at the age of 2 months can still hang down, but this is not a cause for concern. When the pet grows up, they will take an upright position.

We studied the opinions of the owners

Black Corgis are very popular dogs, and their owners generally speak highly of them.

Here’s what they say about their animals:

easy to care for;
are distinguished by their pretty appearance;
have good health and a long life expectancy;
endowed with excellent intelligence, quickly learn new skills;
sociable, cheerful, active and energetic;
can live in the same house with other animals;
love children of all ages;
don’t want to be alone for long.