Cattle were grazed on common lands, and the best grazing places were at a premium. The Cardigan was trained to drive his own cattle to a good spot at the direction of the farmer and to watch over them while they grazed. He also chased cattle that invaded his herd's space by nipping at their heels and dodging swiftly to avoid the ensuing bovine kick. A jack of many trades, the Cardigan also helped drive the cattle to market, guarded the children and the house, and was a fine family companion. It is probable that the Cardigan developed from the same canine family as the Dachshund, which gives the breed its turned-out front feet, short legs, and elongated body.
Bitches weigh less than dogs.
Black, brindle and blue merle may have tan points, and all colors can have white markings on the neck chest, legs, head, and tip of tail. The Cardigan coat is double, with the outer coat being slightly harsh in texture, dense, and of medium length, and the undercoat being short, soft, and thick. Like all double-coated dogs, Cardigans shed. Much more popular in the US than its cousin the Cardigan, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has captured the hearts of families throughout the nation. This corgi may have developed from crosses between Cardigans and the Swedish Vallhund, a Norse dog brought by the Vikings who invaded and then settled in Wales.