Cardigan Corgi Pointer

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is a low-set, powerful dog that stands approximately 10.5 to 12.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 25 and 38 pounds, with males typically larger than females. The breed possesses a distinctively long body relative to its height, earning it the nickname of the yard-long dog, measuring roughly 40 inches from nose to tail tip. This elongated structure sits on short but sturdy legs with slightly bowed forequarters, a physical adaptation that once allowed these dogs to nip at the heels of cattle while ducking beneath retaliatory kicks. The breed features a broad, flat skull with moderately wide-set eyes that convey an alert and watchful expression, complemented by large, prominent ears that are slightly rounded at the tips and carried erect. The Cardigan's coat is a weather-resistant double coat of medium length, consisting of a dense, soft undercoat covered by a longer, harsher outer coat that lies relatively flat against the body. The hair is shorter on the head, ears, and front of the legs, while the neck features a slightly thicker ruff, and the backs of the thighs display moderate feathering. Coat colors include all shades of red, sable, and brindle, as well as black with or without tan or brindle points, and the distinctive blue merle pattern characterized by black and gray marbling. White markings commonly appear on the chest, neck, muzzle, legs, underparts, and tail tip in what is known as the Irish pattern. One of the most distinguishing features separating the Cardigan from its Pembroke cousin is its long, fox-brush tail that hangs low when at rest and may be raised when the dog is alert or moving. The tail is thick at the root and tapers toward the tip, covered with dense fur that gives it a plume-like appearance. The overall impression should be of a handsome, powerful small dog capable of both speed and endurance, with balanced proportions that emphasize substance without coarseness.

The Pointer, also known as the English Pointer, represents the quintessential expression of canine power combined with athletic grace in a medium to large sporting dog. Males typically stand 25 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds, while females measure 23 to 26 inches and weigh 45 to 65 pounds. The breed possesses a lean, muscular physique built for speed and endurance, with a body that gives the immediate impression of compact power and agile grace. The overall silhouette is balanced and proportionate, slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest that provides ample room for heart and lung capacity essential for sustained field work. The Pointer's head is distinctively chiseled with a slightly dished face and elevated nose featuring wide, well-developed nostrils designed for exceptional scenting ability. The muzzle is long and the skull is moderately wide, creating a noble and alert expression. Medium-sized ears are set at eye level, hanging close to the head and falling just below the lower jaw with slightly pointed tips. The eyes are rounded and intense, typically dark in color contrasting with the coat markings, conveying intelligence and keen awareness. The neck is long and muscular with a slight arch, flowing smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders that allow for the powerful forward reach characteristic of the breed's movement. The coat is short, dense, and smooth with a fine texture that lies close to the body, providing a lustrous appearance when properly conditioned while offering minimal weather protection. Accepted colors include liver, lemon, black, and orange, each of which may appear as solid shades or combined with white in various patterns including patched, ticked, or predominantly white with colored markings. The tail is medium length, thick at the root and tapering to a fine point, carried on a level with the back when moving and typically held horizontal during the characteristic pointing stance. The feet are oval-shaped with well-arched toes and thick pads suited for covering rough terrain during long days in the field.