There is nothing more important than keeping your Corgi at a healthy weight. You can love on them, treat them, teach them tricks, let them sleep in your bed, but first and foremost you have to feed them properly. Food is not love. Food is nutrition and must be used that way. Anyone with a corgi will tell you, they love to eat! It is part of that big dog in a little package that we hear about. Keeping consistent with a feeding schedule is good practice and feeding the same amount, once that sweet spot is found is good for their digestion. Small puppies, around 8 to 10 weeks old can be fed free choice, with food not eaten immediately removed and offered later in the day. They do eat a lot when they are puppies, up to two cups usually. That is an appropriate amount until they are over a year old. At a year, they should be transitioned from puppy food to adult food. All that being said, activity level plays a big part in how much should be fed. A healthy puppy and adult dog should have a waist line. You should be able to feel their ribs and backbone, but not see them. Puppies don’t usually overeat. But once that transition to adulthood is reached, it is important to monitor waistlines and fluffiness. Food should be given then as nutrition, but not out of habit. Most of my adult corgis thrive with just one cup of food per day. Some younger ones will still be able to eat a cup and a half or even two cups, based on their energy level.
Corgis are really cute all of the time even if they are very overweight. But that cuteness will not be worth the health risks that go along with it. Those little short legs can only carry so much before their backs start taking on the strain too. And just like humans, they can develop weight related disease that can shorten their life span. So, no loving them to death! Treats should be given in small amounts or low calorie treats can be used when training. Also, don’t forget, corgis love walks! Walks are good for our souls too. So get out there and take a walk with your corgi and then give them a small treat or dental chew. You will both be healthier.