The affected dogs are generally characterized by a normal sized trunk and short limbs. Dogs with chondrodysplasia (CDPA) have short legs; this phenotype is characteristic for many breeds such as Welsh Corgi and Dachshund.
Chondrodystrophy (CDDY) is caused by a separate mutation, also includes a short-legged phenotype as well as abnormal premature degeneration of intervertebral discs leading to susceptibility to intervertebral disc herniation (IVDD).
The inheritance of CDDY is semi-dominant (dogs with 2 mutations are smaller than dogs with 1 mutation. However, the inheritance of IVDD is autosomal dominant meaning that 1 mutation is sufficient to express IVDD phenotype.
Genetic testing for these mutations can help breeders to determine if CDDY is present and to identify dogs at risk for IVDD. In breeds where both types of mutations are present, breeders can benefit from test results to implement breeding strategies to reduce incidence of CDDY, while keeping the short-legged phenotype caused by CDPA.
Welsh Corgi is one of the smaller breeds native to England, reaching a height of 25-30 cm and weighing 10-11 kg. Despite their smaller size, Corgis are strong, athletic and lively herders. Long walks, working or sporting activities are therefore a must for these dogs. They are affectionate and sociable without being needy. Once one of the most popular herding breeds in the world, they are now mostly kept as companion dogs. There are two separate breeds, the Welsh Corgi Cardigan, which is slightly larger and has a longer tail compared to the smaller Welsh Corgi Pembroke with a short tail.
© 2026 GenoCan s.r.o., Křižíkova 70, 612 00 Brno
