How Big Do Corgi Puppies Get?

With their short legs, long bodies, and big personalities, corgi puppies are irresistibly charming. But if you’re thinking of bringing one home, or already have, you might be wondering: how big do corgi puppies get? This guide breaks down corgi puppy growth stages, breed standards, weight expectations, and what to watch out for as your corgi matures into a healthy adult dog.

Table of Contents

• Corgi Breed Overview
• Growth Stages of Corgi Puppies
• Average Size of a Corgi Puppy
• How Big Do Adult Corgis Get?
• Factors That Affect Corgi Growth
• How to Tell If Your Corgi Will Be Big
• Healthy Growth Tips for Corgi Puppies
• FAQ

Corgi Breed Overview

There are two distinct corgi breeds:

• Pembroke Welsh Corgi: The more popular breed, known for their docked tails and affectionate personalities.
• Cardigan Welsh Corgi: Slightly larger and stockier, with a long tail and more rounded ears.

Both breeds are part of the herding group and share similar physical traits—including those adorably short legs—although Cardigans tend to be a bit bigger overall.

Growth Stages of Corgi Puppies

Like all dogs, corgis experience several key growth stages:

• Newborn to 3 Weeks: Rapid growth in size and weight, though mostly sleeping and nursing.
• 3 to 8 Weeks: Beginning to play and explore, doubling or tripling in size from birth.
• 8 to 16 Weeks: Critical development period; corgi puppies are weaned and begin training.
• 4 to 6 Months: Growth slows slightly, but they continue filling out and building muscle.
• 6 to 12 Months: Most corgis reach near adult height and weight during this time.
• 12 to 24 Months: Some may still gain muscle mass and chest depth into their second year.

Average Size of a Corgi Puppy

The size of a corgi puppy depends on age and breed type. Here’s a general guideline for Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies:

Cardigan Welsh Corgis typically weigh 3–5 pounds more than Pembrokes at each stage and may stand slightly taller.

How Big Do Adult Corgis Get?

Adult Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically reach:

• Height: 10–12 inches (at the shoulder)
• Weight: 22–30 pounds, with males usually on the higher end

Adult Cardigan Welsh Corgis are generally:

• Height: 10.5–13 inches
• Weight: 25–38 pounds

Both breeds are considered small to medium-sized dogs, but their dense bones and solid frames make them feel heavier than they look.

Factors That Affect Corgi Growth

Several variables influence how big your corgi puppy will get:

• Genetics: The size of your puppy’s parents is a strong predictor of adult size.
• Nutrition: A high-quality, balanced diet supports optimal growth and bone health.
• Spaying/Neutering: Early sterilization may slightly impact growth plate closure.
• Exercise: Regular but safe physical activity strengthens muscles and joints.
• Health conditions: Parasites or metabolic issues can stunt or slow growth.

How to Tell If Your Corgi Will Be Big

Here are a few signs your corgi might grow larger than average:

• Large paws in proportion to the body
• Heavier-than-average weight at 3–4 months
• Slow, steady weight gain past 12 months
• Large-boned or broad chest and shoulders

Keep in mind that growth charts are guidelines—each corgi grows at their own pace. If you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian to assess your puppy’s body condition and growth trajectory.

Healthy Growth Tips for Corgi Puppies

To help your corgi grow up strong and healthy:

• Feed a high-quality puppy formula (especially for small or medium breeds)
• Measure food portions to prevent overfeeding and obesity
• Visit the vet regularly for checkups and weight monitoring
• Keep walks moderate—avoid jumping from furniture or running stairs
• Use puppy-safe supplements only under vet guidance (like calcium or omega-3s)

Remember: corgis are prone to back problems due to their long bodies and short legs. Keeping them at a healthy weight reduces stress on the spine and joints.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take for a corgi puppy to be full-grown?

Most corgis reach their adult height and weight by 12 months, but they may continue to fill out and mature until 18–24 months of age.

Are male or female corgis bigger?

Male corgis are generally slightly larger than females, often by 2–4 pounds and about an inch in height.

Is my corgi overweight or just big-boned?

Ask your vet to perform a body condition score. You should be able to feel (but not see) your puppy’s ribs and observe a waistline when viewed from above.

Do corgi mixes grow bigger than purebreds?

That depends on the other breed in the mix. A corgi crossed with a larger dog (like a Labrador) may grow significantly bigger.

Can you predict a corgi’s adult size by its paws?

Paw size can offer clues, but it’s not always accurate. Genetics and diet play a more significant role in determining final size.

Conclusion

So, how big do corgi puppies get? Most reach 22–30 pounds and stand 10–13 inches tall at maturity. Cardigans tend to be a bit larger than Pembrokes, but both types make compact, sturdy companions with playful energy and loving personalities.

Understanding your puppy’s expected growth—and supporting it with proper nutrition and care—ensures they develop into a healthy adult corgi. If you ever have concerns about your puppy’s size, growth rate, or development, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian.