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I have to respectfully disagree with a couple of things. I have had 3 Pems and all 3 were very loving and affectionate dogs. Also, all 3 were adult dogs when we got them. Our first came from a rescue, Arnie, we knew he had issues with kids when we took him. The home he was in had a toddler and the people allowed that toddler to harass the dog without corrections. That was not a problem for us since we had a teenager and no anticipation of having grandkids any time soon. Max is also a rescue but was returned to his original breeder not because of anything he did, the new wife just didn't want him around. He is a calm, loving, affectionate dog who is my constant companion. We also have his niece from the same breeder who was retired and put up for adoption. If ever there was a velcro dog she is it. All 3 Pems were brought into our home where 3 cats live...never had a problem at all. All are good with other dogs and these 2 love kids.
Can you get a bad dog from a rescue, shelter or breeder....yes but that could be any breed or a mutt. A good breeder will gladly give you referrals to others who have gotten dogs from them. And with any breeder it's important to know the parent's bloodlines and that the breeder tests for any genetic problems.
I would also try talking to a breeder of corgis ( one that tests for genetic diseases) about your situation. A good breeder will help you make the right decision and support you after. I have had three Pembrokes and two of them were as mild mannered as can be.
I have to weigh in once more, in the favor of Cardis... Our previous dog was a Pem, GREAT dog, well-behaved, mellow but didn't really care about cuddles. He had to be put to sleep at 11 after second recurrence of lymphoma. BUT, Bogart, our Cardi, is the most loving, funny, adorable, playful, affectionate, laid back dog we have ever known. It could just be his blood line that gave him this temperament, but the fact that his tail is always wagging, even when he's dreaming sometimes, is also a plus for us.
Find some good breeders, tell them your story. Although Al has a problem with unprovoked aggression with bigger dogs, I think that was our fault -- insufficient socialization -- and with kids and people, our two are a dream come true. Although if you saw them with the vacuum.....
I don't think adoption would be the way to go in your case honestly. I think you should find a reputable breeder and tell them what you went through, allow them to pick a puppy that fits what you are looking for. Last year I went through hell trying to find a second dog, the two dogs I tried (one on trial from a breeder and one through rescue) would be a nightmare for somebody in your situation. The first dog I had was a 4 year old retired cardigan show dog, he was a champion with titles in obedience and rally, he was also very dog aggressive and unpredictable around small kids and dogs in general. Despite his show background he was fearful and I never knew when he would attack another dog, he would give no warning. I told the breeder that he would be around a lot of other dogs and people and she did not mention this type of behavior at all. I drove 6 hours to pick him up only to find he was incredibly dog aggressive and terrified of cars, strangers, and had separation anxiety. With the breeders permission I found him a more suitable home. The second dog was from a rescue, while he wasn't aggressive he had so many behavioral problems that after 7 months of training, medication, vet bills, more training, etc I had to re-home him. I think there are so many unknowns with a rescue dog and/or adult dog that you are better off getting a puppy. That way you can train him from the get go. Get him from a reputable breeder so you know he is mentally sound and you also know they will help you raise the puppy when/if questions arise. I have only had experience with the one cardigan, but I too have head that pems want to be everyone's friend and are very goofy while cardigans are more standoffish, serious, and reserved, don't know how true this is.
How about adopting an adult from a Corgi rescue or a breeder. Sometime breeder have a retired show dog for adoption. This way you can observe and get used to the new Corgi without any fear of what might happen, and the rescue organization or breeder would an additional resource to help you out if needed.
No one, human or dog, should ever have to go thru what you did.
Do I think you are nuts...no. If you are concerned about how you will feel about another corgi I also suggest that spend some time with them. If you have a local corgi club call them, explain your situation and ask when they are having a get together and if you can come. Call breeders, same thing...ask if you can come and spend some time with the dogs.
Pem or Cardi...I can't tell you. I have a Pem and haven't spent time with Cardis. They are both imtelligent dogs and both breeds love people. The way the difference in personalities was explained to me was that when Pems meet someone new they say "ohboy ohboy, someone else to pet me!" Cardis say "excuse me, have we been properly introduced?" I have heard that cardis are a little more laid back then Pems.
Either way I wish you the best of luck in choosing a new member of your family. Let us know how it goes.
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