We believe every puppy deserves the healthiest start possible. That’s why we test our breeding dogs for common inherited conditions found in Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Our goal is to ensure the lifelong well-being of each pup and peace of mind for every new family.
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
A progressive disease that affects the spinal cord in older dogs. It starts with coordination loss in the back legs and can lead to full paralysis over time. Thankfully, DM is not a painful condition, but we work to avoid producing dogs with two copies of the gene.
Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC)
This inherited condition affects a dog’s coordination after intense activity. Dogs with EIC may appear normal but can suddenly collapse after exercise. Most recover quickly, but we test to ensure we don’t pass this trait on unnecessarily.
Von Willebrand Disease Type 1 (vWD1)
A genetic blood-clotting disorder that can cause excessive bleeding. We test for this condition to avoid breeding dogs that could pass on this serious mutation.
Every dog we test will receive one of these genetic statuses:
CLEAR – Does not carry the gene; cannot pass it on
CARRIER – Has one copy of the gene; won’t get the disease but can pass it on
AT RISK – Has two copies; may develop the condition and can pass it on
Even if a dog is “At Risk,” it doesn’t mean they will definitely develop the disease—research is ongoing to understand what triggers it.
Genetic testing isn’t just a checkbox for us – it’s a promise. We want every Ranchhand Corgi to live a full, happy, and healthy life. By making informed breeding choices, we reduce the risk of passing on serious health conditions, giving our puppies (and their families) the very best start.
Healthy pups. Peace of mind. That’s the Ranchhand way.
All of our puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC)—the gold standard in purebred dog registration. This ensures each of our Corgis comes from a verified pedigree with recognized breed standards.
Verified Lineage: Confirms your puppy’s purebred status
Health Standards: Supports responsible breeding practices
Puppy Protection: Access to AKC resources, training, and health support
We are actively testing all of our breeding dogs and carefully reviewing results before pairing. When test results are available, we share them openly. If any potential issues are discovered in past litters, we are committed to notifying affected families.
At Ranchhand Corgis North, our mission is to breed with heart, science, and honesty—always doing what’s best for the dogs and their future families.
We believe in doing things the right way—raising healthy, happy Corgis with transparency, love, and integrity.
Need a more in-depth explanation of what DM, vWD1, EIC, and Fluffy Genes means? Explore below to learn more.
DM is a genetic condition that affects the spinal cord and can lead to mobility issues later in life. It’s not painful, but it can cause progressive weakness in the back legs.
Clear: Dog does not carry the gene and cannot pass it on
Carrier: Has one copy of the gene but will not develop the disease
At Risk: Has two copies and may develop symptoms with age
EIC is a condition where dogs may experience weakness or loss of coordination after strenuous activity. It’s not painful and usually passes quickly.
Clear: No risk and cannot pass the gene
Carrier: Carries one copy, won’t be affected
At Risk: May show signs during intense exercise
vWD1 affects blood clotting. It’s a mild form of a bleeding disorder and can be managed with care and awareness.
Clear: No gene present, cannot pass it on
Carrier: One copy of the gene, won’t be affected
At Risk: Two copies and may show mild clotting issues
The Fluffy gene gives Corgis their signature longer, softer coat. It’s not a health issue, just a different coat variety.
Fluffy Carrier: One copy of the gene, may pass it on
Full Fluffy: Two copies—long, plush coat guaranteed
The Bluie gene can lighten a Corgi’s coat color and is purely cosmetic. It does not affect health.
Carrier: One copy, may pass on the trait
Bluie: Expresses the lighter coat color
Feel free to get in touch with us and we’ll assist with any questions/concerns you may have.
We’re honored to be a part of so many happy beginnings. Here’s what our extended Corgi family has to say about their experience with us and their new four-legged best friends.
Honoring the sweet corgis who gave us love, laughter, and beautiful memories.
