Low-set and sturdy with an endearingly foxy face, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a surprisingly athletic herding dog. Known for their intelligence, affection, and big personality in a small package.
One of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle combines elegance with athleticism. Their hypoallergenic curly coat and keen mind make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want a trainable companion.
Quick Answer
Choose Pembroke Welsh Corgi if you want a great companion. Choose Poodle if you want easier to train and less shedding.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Attribute
Poodle
Size
Weight
Height
Lifespan
Trainability
Energy
Good with Kids
Shedding
Grooming
Apartment
Health
Price
Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds more; Poodle is easier to maintain.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Shedding
Grooming Needs
Shedding is a major differentiator. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a prolific shedder (4/5) — expect fur on your clothes, furniture, and car seats year-round.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi is less expensive to own annually.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,000–$2,500 for a Pembroke Welsh Corgi versus $1,000–$3,000 for a Poodle. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Poodle is the larger breed; Pembroke Welsh Corgi is more compact.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Weight (kg)
Height (cm)
These two breeds look nothing alike. The Poodle is a medium breed at 18–32 kg (40–71 lbs) and 38–61 cm (15–24 in), while the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small breed at just 10–14 kg (22–31 lbs) and 25–30 cm (10–12 in).
Poodle tends to be the healthier breed overall.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Lifespan (years)
Health Robustness
Both breeds have comparable lifespans — 12–15 years for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and 12–15 years for the Poodle. You can expect a similar length of companionship from either breed, all else being equal.
Both breeds have similar temperaments.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Playfulness
Barking Level
Energy
When you live with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, you'll notice their affectionate, smart and alert character in everything they do. A Poodle, by contrast, shows a intelligent, elegant and athletic nature.
Poodle is generally easier to train.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Trainability
Intelligence
The Poodle has a slight training edge (5/5 vs 4/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Poodle tends to catch on a bit faster.
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Energy Level
Exercise Needs
Apartment Friendly
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Poodle need high daily activity (4/5). Both are athletic breeds that thrive with active owners.
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Poodle
Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Strangers
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
On balance, the Poodle has the edge — it's easier to train (5/5 vs 4/5), less shedding (1/5), better health profile (4/5). For most families, the Poodle is the more practical choice, particularly if you value an easy-to-train companion.
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Poodle are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds considerably more. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi by roughly $600/year.
Choose Pembroke Welsh Corgi if...
Choose Poodle if...
Neither may be right if...
Both the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Poodle have high energy needs (4/5 and 4/5 respectively). If you live in a small apartment without park access or can't commit to 60+ minutes of daily exercise, consider a lower-energy breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Shih Tzu instead.
Looking for more options?
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Poodle at 4/5. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is specifically recommended for families.
The Poodle is easier to train, scoring 5/5 versus the Pembroke Welsh Corgi's 4/5. The Poodle's eagerness to please makes training sessions more productive.
A Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy costs $1,000–$2,500 while a Poodle costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,080 for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and $1,650 for the Poodle. The Poodle costs more to maintain annually.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi lives 12–15 years on average, while the Poodle lives 12–15 years. Both breeds have similar lifespans. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is equally suited for apartments (3/5) as the Poodle (3/5). The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of our top picks for apartment living.