7 Corgi Rescue Organizations in the U.S.
- Molly Weinfurter
- 23 hours ago
- 6 min read
People love Corgis. Their long bodies and short legs are adorable, so they’re a popular breed in pop culture. But whenever a breed gains popularity, that leads to more people wanting that breed. And a higher demand for a breed often leads to more sketchy breeders selling those dogs. So, whenever someone tells me they want a Corgi, I highly suggest Corgi rescue organizations.
Can You Rescue a Corgi?
Yes, you can absolutely rescue a Corgi. While they’re not one of the most common breeds at shelters and rescues, any dog can end up there. And I’ve definitely seen plenty of Corgis while volunteering.
However, if you’re interested in a Corgi, make sure you research the breed first. Appearance shouldn’t be the only reason you choose a dog. Corgis are herding dogs, so they often have high energy, which isn’t suitable for every household. I’ve also heard that they shed a lot. Don’t forget to take those factors into account when choosing a dog breed to adopt.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
It’s important to note that there are two breeds called “Corgis”: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi. They both have the adorable stubby legs and long body shape that Corgis are known for, so what’s the difference?
The primary physical difference is tails. Cardigan Welsh Corgis are always born with tails while Pembroke Welsh Corgis can be born without tails, and if they have tails, they’re usually docked (which isn’t something I think is ethical, but it’s considered the standard). Cardigans also have larger, more rounded bodies, weighing up to 38 pounds while Pembrokes weigh up to 30 pounds. Pembrokes are the ones most people are familiar with.
According to the AKC, the two are different breeds because they have different origins. As their names imply, Cardigans came from Cardiganshire in southwest Wales, which has rocky terrain, while Pembrokes came from Pembrokeshire in southern Wales, which has flatter terrain.
Both breeds are wonderful dogs, but Pembroke Welsh Corgis tend to be more popular in U.S. rescues than Cardigan Welsh Corgis. Most rescues that specialize in one of these breeds will take both of them and Corgi mixes.
Corgi Rescue Organizations in the U.S.
Corgis can appear at any rescue or shelter, but since they’re not common as rescues, it might be easier to focus on organizations that specialize in them. Below are some great Corgi rescues in the U.S. If you know of an organization that isn’t listed, please contact me, and I’ll get it added.
Location: California
Foster-Based?: No, it's sanctuary-based with some fosters
Adoption Process: Fill out a dog-specific application, then schedule a home check and meet-and-greet
Queen’s Best focuses on rescuing special needs Corgis from high kill shelters across California. They rehabilitate the dogs medically and work on training to manage behavior concerns. Any dogs that can’t be safely adopted can live out their days at this rescue’s Corgi sanctuary. Even though they have a physical location, they still have some dogs in foster homes to free up sanctuary space.
Location: DC, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Applications open approximately once per year, and applications are selected based on the needs of the dogs
East Coast Corgi Rescue is a network of volunteers dedicated to helping Corgis and Corgi mixes find new homes, so they don’t have a physical shelter location. They operate across several East Coast states by fostering dogs and helping owners find new homes for dogs they want to surrender. They typically have a lot more applicants than available dogs, but they’re always looking for new foster homes to increase the number of dogs they can help.
Location: North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Submit a general application, and the rescue will reach out when a good fit becomes available
This volunteer-run rescue helps find homes for Corgis and Corgi mixes. They ensure every dog in their care is vetted and trained so they can be ready for a forever home. Some Corgis may become “forever fosters” if they can’t be adopted out for health or behavioral reasons. Like many rescues, they really need more volunteers and fosters, and they need to pause intakes if they don’t have anywhere for the dogs to stay.
Location: Colorado
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Fill out the application, then schedule a home visit if approved
This Colorado rescue helps Corgis and other “lowrider” breeds. The dog lovers who founded this rescue in 2019 have combined experience of over 100 years owning Corgis and over 50 years in rescue. They find homes for homeless dogs, help owners rehome their pets, and offer advice to people who have this herding breed. They currently don’t do out-of-state adoptions.
Location: Minnesota
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Application includes references, household information, and veterinary details
Despite being two very different breeds, FaerieLand finds homes for both Corgis and German Shepherds. They help both purebreds and mixes of these breeds find homes, which includes owner surrenders, strays, and dogs rescued from neglect and abuse situations. They work hard to find the best home possible for every dog’s unique needs.
Location: Missouri
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Email the rescue about the dog you’re interested in
Pet’s Second Chance is happy to help any Corgis and Corgi mixes find new homes, regardless of age and physical condition. They’re located in St. Louis, Missouri, but they accept dogs from Missouri, Northern Arkansas, and Southern Illinois. They often only have a few dogs at a time because they have to rely on dedicated foster homes rather than a physical shelter location. They prefer adopters with fenced-in yards and don’t adopt out to families with small children since Corgis sometimes nip at toddlers to “herd” them.
Location: Wyoming
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Fill out an application, and the rescue will help you find a dog that’s a good fit
This rescue loves dogs with long bodies and short legs, so they specialize in caring for Corgis and Dachshunds. They take in owner surrenders, shelter dogs, and strays from Wyoming, Colorado, and Texas. They get to know each dog well before adoption so they can ensure the dogs are going to the best homes possible. Like many other rescues, they can only take in a small number of dogs at a time because they need more foster homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Find a Corgi Rescue Near Me?
If none of the above Corgi rescues are near you, search “corgi rescue” followed by your state or city to see if there are options nearby. You can also search specifically for Corgis on Petfinder and Adopt a Pet, which will show you if Corgis end up at regular shelters and rescues nearby.
Why Do Corgi Rescues Have Strict Adoption Processes?
Corgi rescues often have strict adoption processes, including applications, home visits, and meets. While this can seem tedious, rescues often put these requirements in place to ensure the dogs are going to a good home. This reduces the chances of them being returned, which is beneficial for both the dogs and adopters.
How Long Do Corgis Live?
According to the AKC, Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically live 12 to 13 years while Cardigan Welsh Corgis typically live 12 to 15 years. By keeping up with your dog’s exercise and medical needs, you can increase their chances of living long.
How Long Does it Take a Rescued Corgi to Adjust?
Every dog adjusts to their new home at a different pace, but patience should be expected. Corgis often take 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to get used to a routine, and 3 months to feel truly at home. If your new dog doesn’t feel comfortable right away, give them time. After all, big changes can be scary for pets.
Consider a Corgi Rescue
Corgis are adorable, and if you think you can handle their high energy and shedding, they might be the right companion for you. However, before turning to a breeder, consider checking out rescues and shelters first. Corgis can end up at these organizations, and there are even rescues that specialize in caring for this breed.
There are so many dogs out there that need a family, so please consider opening your heart and home to one if you’re looking for a dog. Even if you can’t find a Corgi, consider meeting other rescue dogs to see if they fit what you’re looking for. Sometimes, a dog you wouldn’t normally seek out has the perfect personality for your lifestyle.
