Ever wonder if those adorable corgis enjoy being scooped up and held close? There’s nothing I love more than grabbing my beautiful dog and giving them a hug!
But while their fluffy cuteness begs for cuddles, their herding instincts and playful energy might make you wonder.
Let’s delve into the world of corgi affection and discover if they truly appreciate being held.
Are corgis social dogs?
Corgis are friendly, energetic, and love being around people.
They get close to their families and like to play. They also like to watch out for things, like back when they served as herding sheepdogs.
But because they have a lot of energy, they need to play and do things to think about a lot so they don’t get bored.
Corgis like to be around their owners, but some don’t like to be cuddled as much as others. For more information about corgi behaviour, you can read my guides:
- Behaviour of Pembroke Welsh corgis
- Behaviour of Cardigan Welsh corgis
- Full American Kennel Club breed standard
It’s important to find out what your corgi likes and doesn’t like so you can both be happy.
Do corgis like to be held?
While most corgis are affectionate and like to be held, it’s not a guarantee that all corgis – including your own – wants to be held.
Their independent nature means they value their own space and may not always be in the mood for cuddles.
Vets suggest that while corgis can enjoy being held, owners should approach this form of affection gradually – especially if the dog is not used to it from a young age.
It’s also important to note that corgis’ long backs make them susceptible to injuries. Always support them properly when picking them up. The best approach is to read your corgi’s body language and respect their boundaries.
How to know your corgi wants to be held?
Not all dogs like to be loved in the same way. Just like people, they have different ways of showing and receiving affection.
It’s important to learn how your dog communicates so you know when they’re happy or uncomfortable. Here are some signs your dog might like being held or cuddled:
- Their body is relaxed and loose.
- Their tail is wagging.
- They come to you and want attention.
If your dog shows any of these signs, it’s okay to pet them gently. Corgis are very social and love their humans. They often show you clearly when they enjoy being petted or cuddled.
How to know your corgi doesn’t want to be held?
If your corgi shows any of these signs, they might not be happy or willing to be held:
- They look away from you.
- Their body becomes stiff.
- They try to move away.
If you see these signs, give your dog some space. Never force your dog to cuddle if they don’t want to. This can make them stressed and unhappy – not something you want for your pet.
Always be gentle and let them choose if they want attention. This way, you can build a strong and happy relationship with your furry friend.
How to properly hold a corgi?
For cuddly corgis, here’s how to hold them safely and happily in two simple steps.
- Use one hand under their chest and the other to cradle their rear end. This spreads their weight evenly and protects their back.
- Pick them up slowly and securely, keeping them close for comfort.
Look for signs of enjoyment like a relaxed body, soft eyes, and wags. If they seem stressed or want down, let them go gently.
Here’s a great video to walk you through the process of holding your beautiful dog.
How to teach your corgi to enjoy being held?
With a slow process focused on positive reinforcement, you can train your corgi to enjoy being held.
While some corgis are cuddle champions, others might not be as enthusiastic. If your corgi isn’t a natural snuggler, here are some tips to gradually introduce them to the idea and build a positive association with being held:
1. Start the process slowly
Begin with gentle petting in areas they enjoy, like behind the ears or under the chin. Gradually move towards petting their body, observing their reaction throughout.
2. Use positive reinforcement to encourage your corgi
Pair positive experiences with being held. Offer treats or praise when they tolerate your touch.
3. Try these desensitisation techniques to help
You can also try desensitisation, where you gradually introduce them to being held for short periods, rewarding calmness and increasing the duration slowly.
Never force your corgi to be held. If they show any signs of discomfort (stiffness, avoiding eye contact, trying to move away), stop immediately and give them space.
Be patient, respect their boundaries, and focus on creating a positive association with touch. If they never fully embrace cuddles, don’t despair! They might show affection in other ways like nuzzling, following you around, or playing with you.
You can also read my full guide on corgis and cuddles.
Final thoughts on holding corgis
Corgis can be cuddly, but not all of them! Each dog is different and has its own way of showing love.
Pay attention to your corgi’s body language: if they seem relaxed and happy, you can try cuddling them gently. Always support their back properly and be patient if they’re not interested.
With time and respect, you and your corgi can build a strong bond based on mutual understanding and affection.
