Can Corgis Jump? Health Risks & Tips
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View 3 More +The Corgi’s adorably unique appearance turns heads wherever they go. With their “smiley” expressions, round, wiggly butts, and little legs, these fun-loving dogs are never short of admirers. That said, many prospective Corgi parents wonder if their canine companion’s short legs will prevent them from jumping.
In short, Corgis can jump, but there are some things you need to be aware of and watch out for. In this post, we’ll explain why it’s best to be cautious when it comes to allowing your Corgi to jump up on furniture or other objects.
Are Corgis Too Short to Jump?
Corgis are capable of jumping up on or over objects within reason. How high can a Corgi jump? Not especially high—they’re not built for a whole lot of jumping up and down due to their small stature, but can they jump? Absolutely. Many Corgis enjoy jumping as they run and play, and this is completely normal and not typically a cause for concern. Corgi jumping is very cute to watch.
One thing to take into account, however, is that it’s not good for Corgis to jump up on or down from high places on a regular basis because this may cause back and spinal issues in the future.
One of the back issues Corgis are susceptible to is intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)1 because of their little legs and short backs. Other breeds prone to this condition are Dachshunds, Beagles, and Shih Tzus among others.
What Is Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)?
Intervertebral disc disease occurs when a disc in a dog’s back moves out of place or becomes ruptured or herniated. Intervertebral discs act as cushions between the spinal bones, so when they become displaced or ruptured, they can cause pain ranging from mild to severe and make it harder for dogs to move around. In severe cases, a dog with IVDD may end up with nerve damage or be completely unable to walk.
Because jumping on and off of elevated surfaces can place stress on the back or, in some cases, cause them to land improperly, doing so too often may lead to painful and serious back conditions like IVDD. For this reason, it’s important to make sure your Corgi isn’t jumping up and down off of furniture too much and putting strain on their back.
Signs of Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Symptoms of IVDD are pretty varied and include pain in the neck or back which can be intense, loss of function in the front or hind legs, inability to urinate, no pain perception (caused by spinal cord injury), being off balance, and dragging the feet.
If you suspect that your dog might be suffering from IVDD, please get them to a vet immediately for treatment—this condition can cause paralysis.
How Can I Stop My Corgi From Jumping On Furniture?
We know, we know—nothing beats couch snuggles with your dog. However, you might decide to not allow your Corgi to jump up on furniture to help protect their back from injury and strain. If you’re working on discouraging your Corgi from jumping up on and off of elevated surfaces too much, here are some things you can try.
- Make sure your Corgi has a special cozy spot of their own that they can enjoy going to instead of your couch or bed. You can place it next to your couch or bed so they can still be close to you.
- Reward your Corgi when they go to their own spot instead of on your furniture.
- Be consistent even when your Corgi gives you the famous puppy-dog eyes—don’t give in! Make sure everyone in the family sticks to the furniture rule.
- If you want to let your Corgi on furniture, install a ramp or steps to help take the pressure off their back that jumping can cause.
Final Thoughts
To recap, Corgis can certainly jump, and many enjoy jumping over mini hurdles and other obstacles but they’re not the most accomplished jumpers due to their short legs.
Furthermore, it’s not a good idea to let your Corgi jump up and down on surfaces too much—especially high surfaces—as this can place strain on their back and spinal cord.
See Also:
Featured Image Credit: Miroshnikova Arina, Shutterstock
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Kit Copson is a freelance writer and lifelong animal lover with a strong interest in animal welfare. She has parented many furry beings over the years and is currently a proud cat mom of two—one very chilled (unless hungry) Siamese and a skittish but adorable Domestic Shorthair—and dog mom of one—an adopted Bichon Poodle cross. When not writing about or spending time with pets, Kit can be found drawing in her sketchpad, reading, or more often than not, drinking tea.
