The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two corgi breeds, developed in Cardiganshire, Wales, to drive cattle by nipping at their heels and staying low enough to dodge kicks. It's long and low with heavy bone, large rounded ears and a full, fox-like tail, and its coat comes in colors from red and brindle to blue merle.
Many Cardigans are loyal, even-tempered and reserved with strangers until they warm up. They're smart and trainable, and that herder's alertness can show up as barking or heel nipping. Plan on daily walks and training, heavy seasonal shedding, and careful protection of that long back, since disc disease is a known concern. Dogs vary, so a Cardigan's own behavior matters more than the breed description.