Beagle vs Corgi: A Side by Side Comparison

Both the Corgi and the Beagle breeds are active, confident, and chirpy. They have some areas where they can be similar, but they are generally distinct from each other. Each dog has been bred for specific purposes which need to be assessed before bringing one to your home. By and large, both pooches are great companion dogs which might give you a hard time choosing which to go for.

In this article, we are going to feature the differences of both breeds for an easier time to decide should you have to choose between two little canines.

Breed Origins

Beagle

There are currently no known records that could trace us back to the exact origin of the Beagle breed. However, several accounts lead us to the 5th century BCE in Greece where dogs of a similar size used to exist. Although there was no formal name for these dogs, it is assumed that they are the ancestors of the first Beagles.

In the mid-1800s, Reverend Honeywood established a pack of Beagles in England. These dogs facilitated the coming of the modern Beagle as American breeders imported and improved the looks of this breed which we now commonly see and become familiar with concerning appearance.

Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, as the name suggests, originates from Pembrokeshire! Its existence has some folklore associated with it insinuating that this dog sprang from the hideaways of elves and fairies. Of course, not everyone would buy this fascinating legendary story. Historians propound that this herding dog descends from Vallhunds, Swedish cattle dogs brought by the Vikings to Wales in the 9th and 10th century.

Others have a different perspective on how this came about. For some, the Corgis came to Wales through the traveling Flemish weavers in the 12th century.

Size, Appearance, Coloring

Beagle

There are two types recognized for this medium-sized breed: the 13″ beagle (weighing 20 pounds under) and the 15” Beagle (weighing 20-30 pounds under). The numbers simply refer to their height at withers.

You can easily recognize a Beagle just from the way he looks. He has long drooping ears that will flop freely as he runs. His broad and somewhat dome-shaped head and the shorter muzzle are close to that of the Foxhound while his legs are disproportionately shorter than his body length. One thing you’d notice instantly would be his hazel to brown soulful puppy eyes and his square jaw. His body is short but sturdy and the tail doesn’t curl over the back.

He has a variety of colors which are:

Chocolate tri
Lemon & white
White & tan
Tri-color
Red & white
Orange & white
White & chocolate

Corgi

The Corgi has two kinds known as the Pembroke Welsh and the Cardigan Corgi. Generally, the whole breed is in the medium category. However, specifically, the Cardigan Corgi is much larger than the other. The height can be anywhere between 10-12 inches weighing 28-30 pounds depending on whether it is a male or a female.

This agreeable small house dog can be instantly identified due to his very short stature, sharp ears, and a fox-like appearance. Compared to the Beagle, his tail is closely docked with some that are exceptionally born with a bobtail. Because of his long back, this little dog is prone to back problems despite its spine being straight to the tail.

Also, his double-coat is short and can be rarely fluffy. This may be cuter than the standard appearance, but show rings frown upon this look. Colors and patterns are varied which may include:

Fawn & black
Sable
Red
Fawn
Black & white

Temperament

Beagle

Beagles are excitable little canines that would jump and run around to greet their owners or chase after intriguing and moving objects. In contrast to this personality, this dog breed is ideally gentle in disposition. Its fanciers often describe him as “merry” which is true since he is fun to be around with and on top of that, he is loving, happy, and cuddly.

When it comes to strangers, a Beagle can be aloof and distant, but their trust can be easily won over. With that, he is better as a watchdog than a guard dog.

Corgi

Corgis display exuberant confidence with his posture despite his stubby legs. His personality ranges from loving, happy, smart, and playful, with a few downsides like stubbornness. He is very much into mischief and you’d see him getting a lot into trouble. Witnessing him on his diabolicalness would surely make you laugh and adore this prankish canine more.

The snags on his temperament are not a major issue. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II of England owned over 30 Corgis and that positively implies something about this cheerful dog!

Trainability

Beagle

Beagles have a mixed reputation when it comes down to training. They were originally bred as scent hounds to track down rabbits and hares and they do this independently without needing any commands from their human companions. You may ask him to place his paw on your hand and he would deliberately give you a face of refusal. However, this dog breed is food-driven, so incorporating positive reinforcements during a training session can do wonders.

With the right amount of commitment, patience, and consistency, your Beagle will surely end up knowing how to please you with his obedience.

Corgi

Dog training is one of the essential things you must include as a routine as early as possible. Corgis are quick-witted dogs and can learn tricks effortlessly. Howbeit, his stubborn personality, and independence may get in the way. If you will let him develop habits on his terms, these will be hard to break.

As much as possible, once you bring home a Corgi puppy, ensure that he is immersed with house rules and other necessary training such as socialization for a mutually satisfying relationship. Any onset of bad behaviors must be diminished pronto.

Activity Level

Beagle

Despite coming in small packages, beagles are full of energy! They are active and in high need of daily exercise. Being a scenthound, he likes to go out and sniff around the yard or wherever you chose to bring him. One thing you have to remember is to never let him go off-leash outside. His nose is powerful and can be attracted to several smells. You will just realize later on that he’s missing!

Additionally, releasing pent-up energy is best done with a company. This adorable canine has a pack mentality and being with someone during a walk in the park makes him the happiest. Never skip a day of exercise for this Beagle or he’ll end up showing destructive behaviors.

Corgi

Frequent activities and a moderate amount of exercise for an hour are enough for the Corgi. Not only does this maintain his health as a high-energy dog, but as well as his contentment. You might be worrying about his size and the “ridiculous” amount of activity required for him, but this dog is part of the herding group bred for rigorous tasks.

Try to throw a ball at a surprising speed and you’ll be surprised at how fast he’ll get as he chases after it. Give him any task, and expect him to do so eagerly and dutifully.

Living Condition

Both dog breeds do well in apartment-style of living just as long as owners keep a regular schedule of bringing them outside for a walk or an exercise. Specifically, trained Corgis can live outside provided that they are used to this and they have all the right equipment to withstand the mental stresses posed by the outside environment.

Moreover, they can adjust well to hot and cold weather. However, an extreme drop in temperature can cause a slight discomfort for the Corgi while the Beagle may be prone to hypothermia or frostbite.

Grooming

Beagle

In having a Beagle, you’ll need a few items ready when the grooming session starts:

A quality bristle brush
Deshedding tools
Quality bath products
Canine eye wipes and ear solution
Nail clippers or grinders
Paw wax
Nose balm
Dental care items

This canine would need a bath every 3 weeks to avoid unpleasant odors. Although his short and tidy coat repels dirt, some owners think that it is unnecessary to exert an effort for his cleaning. But, if you want a Beagle with a healthy coat and skin, regularly groom him with canine-only products.

Corgi

Thanks to his relatively short hair, the Corgi doesn’t need trimming except for his hairs on his feet and whiskers. Grooming may take place every 4-8 weeks with more frequent grooming during his shedding seasons. Corgis shed daily and brushing must be done every day using a metal medium-toothed comb to control hair fall.

As for baths, Corgis may need a wash every week or whenever he needs it most.

Health Issues

Beagle

Beagles are prone to diseases and health issues. The good news, however, is that most if not all can be treated by your local vet. The most common problems he may have are:

Obesity
Allergies
Epilepsy
Hypothyroidism
Cherry eye

Corgi

Expect your Corgi to have concerning health issues if you bought him from unreliable breeders. For some, treating their Corgis’ health problems can be overwhelming if they are not financially well-off. Some complications may include:

Intervertebral disc disease
Hip dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Skin allergies
Spine problems

Litter Size

Both Beagles and Corgis are capable of delivering 6 puppies in a litter. Their newborn pups mostly only weigh a few ounces each, but would drastically gain weight in no time.

Life Expectancy

Beagle

Beagles, despite being prone to health issues, live for about 10 to 15 years. Depending on how careful you treat him when it comes to food, exercises, and hygiene, you’ll be sure to spend a lot of years with your merry pooch. Some owners have shared that their dogs have surpassed the 15-year mark and their Beagle lived up to 20 years old!

Corgi

Corgis can live between 12 to 13 years. They have shorter life expectancy due to their body structure. Their long backs and short legs can make them vulnerable to several health-threatening issues, but luckily, these can be avoided through extra care and religiously going to the vet. A Corgi named Bluey lived up to 17 years old.

Breed Popularity

The regarded miniature Foxhound is 6th in ranking out of 197 dog breeds registered in the American Kennel Club! Perhaps the Beagle’s even temperament and low aggression appeal to many homes especially those who have kids. As for the Corgi, he bags 13th place. His agreeable nature and link to the British royal family might just be the reason behind this!

Fun Facts

Beagle

He is bred for hunting.
His tail is like a white flag.
He can vocalize in three ways.
A great number of Beagles have jobs.
His nose can detect even the faintest of smells.

Corgi

He is a world-class herding dog.
His name means “dwarf dog”.
They share ancestry with the Siberian Husky.
The royal family loves Corgis!
You’ll get a penalty if you steal a Corgi.

Which Is a Better Dog?

Understanding the nature of both dogs is crucial for every potential dog owner. There is no such thing as a more desirable breed. Simply know exactly which of the two is “more” suitable for you or if you want, you can bring them both to your home as they are each other’s playmates. These two dogs are challenging and great as pets, but when it comes to their differences, which of the two can you deal with better?