How to choose a corgi kennel: pedigree, health tests, contract and questions for the breeder
You choose a puppy for the next twelve years or more. A short list of things worth checking before you pay a deposit.
A corgi usually lives 12–15 years. Its health and temperament depend largely on how the parents were matched and how the litter was raised. Here is what we look at ourselves when we choose a dog for our kennel.
1. A ZKwP/FCI pedigree
A kennel registered with the Polish Kennel Club (ZKwP) issues its puppies a birth certificate, which is later exchanged for a pedigree. The pedigree records the dog’s ancestors and confirms that both parents met the club’s breeding requirements. Look up the kennel’s registered name and ask for both parents’ pedigrees.
2. The parents’ health tests
For Pembrokes, ask about:
eyes: an eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist,
DNA tests: DM (degenerative myelopathy), vWD1, EIC, PRA.
A “carrier” result is fine when the other parent is clear: the puppies will then be clear or, like that parent, carriers. That is how we matched the parents of our litter A: the mother carries DM and the father is clear. A breeder should show you the results in writing, with the laboratory’s name.
3. Where the puppies grow up
Ask where the puppies live and what they get used to before they leave: household sounds, different surfaces, the car, strangers. The first weeks shape a dog’s character for life. It helps if you can meet the mother and see how she behaves with visitors.
4. The contract
A reservation agreement, followed by a sale contract, sets out both sides’ obligations. Read what it says about the deposit, the collection date, the puppy’s health on collection, and what happens if the dog ever needs a new home.
5. Questions for the breeder
Why did you choose this pairing?
Which documents come with the puppy?
Will the puppy be vaccinated, wormed and microchipped?
At what age do your puppies go to their new homes?
Can I call you after collection if questions come up?
A good breeder will ask you plenty of questions too. It is a sign they care where the puppy will live.
Ask us
On our litter’s page we explain why we chose this pairing, with both parents’ full health results, and their pedigrees are on our dogs’ pages. You can put any question from this list to us as well: write or call.