Raising a 4-Month-Old Corgi: Chaos or Pure Bliss?

Life with a 4-month-old Corgi is nothing short of delightful chaos. Picture this: those floppy ears perking up every time you speak, their curious little noses sniffing out every corner of the house, and that unmistakable wiggle of excitement in their step. They’re bundles of energy wrapped in cuteness, keeping you on your toes and filling your days with laughter.

Whether you’re captivated by their adorable fluffy butts or their playful personalities, there’s no denying the charm of this breed. Today, we’ll dive into their behavior, training tips, dietary needs, and a fun story about my own Corgi’s antics that perfectly captures what it’s like to raise one of these lively pups.

Behavior of a 4-Month-Old Corgi

At four months old, a Corgi is full of personality and energy. Here are some key behaviors you can expect:

• Playfulness and Energy: At this stage, your Corgi will have bursts of energy that can seem endless. Expect to see plenty of zoomies—those rapid runs around the house or yard that showcase their joy and excitement. It’s like they’re expressing pure, unfiltered happiness, and it’s contagious. Regular playtime helps channel this energy positively, but don’t be surprised if your pup crashes for a nap soon after.
• Herding Instincts: Corgis are natural herders, so don’t be surprised if your puppy nips at your heels or tries to herd family members or other pets. This behavior isn’t them being naughty—it’s their instinct. Redirect this behavior early by teaching commands like “gentle” and providing chew toys as alternatives. They’ll learn quickly with patience and love.
• Intelligence and Curiosity: Corgis are incredibly smart and love to learn, but this intelligence also means they’ll test boundaries. Puppy-proofing your home is crucial at this age to keep them safe and out of trouble. Trust me, if there’s something to investigate or a spot to explore, your Corgi will find it.
• Affectionate Companions: Despite their high energy, Corgis are incredibly loyal and affectionate. They thrive on attention and enjoy cuddling with their humans after an active day. There’s nothing quite like a sleepy Corgi curling up next to you, sighing contentedly as they drift off.
• How Big Should a 4-Month-Old Corgi Be? At four months, most Corgis weigh between 10 to 12 pounds, depending on their diet, genetics, and activity level. They are still growing rapidly, so it’s important to monitor their weight to ensure they stay within a healthy range. Consult with your veterinarian to confirm your puppy’s weight aligns with their growth curve.

While these behaviors are endearing, they can also present challenges, so patience and consistent guidance are crucial.

Training a Young Corgi

Training a Corgi at this age is both rewarding and essential. Their intelligence makes them quick learners, but it also means they’ll require consistent effort. Here are some key training tips:

• Basic Commands: Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it.” Use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise to encourage good behavior. Incorporate short training sessions multiple times a day to hold their attention. They’re eager to please, so make learning fun for them.
• Potty Training: Establish a routine by taking your Corgi outside after meals, naps, and playtime. Be sure to praise them when they go in the right spot to reinforce the behavior. Consistency and patience are key to success, and accidents are just part of the learning curve.
• Managing Herding Instincts: Redirect nipping behavior with chew toys or by engaging them in interactive games. Encourage calm behavior by rewarding them when they stop nipping or respond to the “gentle” command. It’s all about creating positive associations.
• Socialization: Expose your puppy to a variety of environments, people, and other dogs. This helps build their confidence and reduces anxiety in new situations. Take them to puppy classes or organize playdates with other dogs. Watching your Corgi navigate new experiences is both rewarding and heartwarming.
• At What Age Do Corgis Stop Biting? Nipping and biting are common in puppies as they explore their world and relieve teething discomfort. With consistent training, most Corgis stop nipping by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. However, starting early with redirection and teaching boundaries will make the process smoother.

Personal Story: During one training session, my little guy got so excited about treats that he did a spin before sitting down—an accidental trick that has now become a favorite! Corgis have a knack for surprising you with their cleverness, and moments like these remind you of their unique personalities.

Food and Diet for a Growing Corgi

Proper nutrition is vital for your Corgi’s growth and development. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Balanced Meals: Provide high-quality puppy food with adequate protein and fat to support their active lifestyle. Look for options with natural ingredients and no artificial additives. Transition gradually if switching brands to avoid stomach upset.
• Portion Control: Feed your Corgi based on their weight and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which is particularly harmful to a breed prone to joint issues. Use a measuring cup for precise portions and stick to regular feeding times.
• How Much Should a 4-Month-Old Corgi Eat a Day? On average, a 4-month-old Corgi needs about 1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality puppy food divided into two or three meals. Adjust portion sizes based on their activity level and metabolism, and consult your vet for personalized advice.
• Healthy Treats: Use healthy snacks like carrots, green beans, or small apple slices as rewards. These are not only nutritious but also great for training purposes. Ensure treats make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake to maintain a balanced diet.
• Foods to Avoid: Keep toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and excessively salty or fatty foods out of reach. Additionally, avoid feeding them bones that could splinter or cause choking hazards.

Diet Table for a 4-Month-Old Corgi

Funny Anecdote: One morning, I turned my back for a second, and my Corgi managed to open a snack bag! It’s safe to say we’ve now puppy-proofed our kitchen. These little adventurers will sniff out any opportunity for a snack, so vigilance is key.

What You Should NOT Do with a 4-Month-Old Corgi

To ensure your Corgi grows into a happy and well-adjusted dog, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overexercise: While Corgis are active, their growing joints can be easily strained. Avoid long walks or high-impact activities like jumping off furniture. Instead, opt for short, controlled play sessions to keep them engaged without overdoing it.
• Skipping Socialization: Failing to expose them to different environments and experiences can lead to fear or aggression later in life. Make socialization a priority to build their confidence and adaptability.
• Using Negative Reinforcement: Corgis respond best to positive reinforcement. Avoid scolding or punishing them harshly, as this can damage trust and hinder their progress. Build a bond based on understanding and encouragement.
• Overfeeding: Their adorable begging can be hard to resist, but overfeeding leads to obesity and related health issues. Stick to measured portions and healthy treats.
• Ignoring Mental Stimulation: Corgis are intelligent and need puzzles, games, or interactive toys to keep their minds active. Boredom can lead to destructive behavior. Rotate toys to keep things interesting and challenging.
• Allowing Nipping: It might seem cute now, but allowing nipping can encourage unwanted herding behavior as they grow. Teach boundaries early to prevent issues later.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll help your Corgi develop into a happy, healthy companion.

The Corgi Connection – Why They Steal Our Hearts

Corgis aren’t just dogs; they’re family. Their big personalities, intelligence, and loyalty make them unforgettable companions. Here’s a heartwarming moment that sums up life with a Corgi:

Every evening, my little Corgi hops up onto the couch, rests his head on my lap, and lets out the sweetest contented sigh. It’s these quiet moments that remind me why all the effort is worth it. Their love is as boundless as their energy, and they have a way of making every day brighter.

• At What Age Do Corgis Get Fluffy? Some Corgis start developing their full fluffy coats around 8 to 12 months of age. The thickness and texture can vary, but this period marks the transition to their adult coat, which is one of the breed’s most charming features.

Whether it’s their goofy antics, their unwavering loyalty, or their ability to bring joy with just a wag of their fluffy tails, Corgis truly steal our hearts.