Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Dog Breeds at myPetSmart.com

Origin:

Great Britain

Male height:

10 - 12 inches (25-30 cm)

Male weight:

In proportion to size; no more than 30 pounds (14 kg) for males, and 28 pounds (13 kg) for females

Coat:

Thick, medium-length double coat consisting of a weather-resistant undercoat and a longer outercoat.

Colors:

Red, sable, fawn or black and tan, usually with white markings.

History:

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has been around for about 1,000 years. The name "Corgi" is from "Cur-gi", meaning "dwarf dog" in Welsh. How this breed -- and the closely related Cardigan Welsh Corgi -- evolved is not known for sure, but many Pembroke fanciers believe that they descended from members of the larger spitz family. Other breeds that may have contributed to their development are the Lundehund, the Swedish Vallhund, the Buhund, the Finnehund, the Welsh Heeler and the Schipperke. The resulting energetic, intelligent dog didn't require much space or food and became useful to early Welsh farmers. Traditionally, Pembroke Welsh Corgis were used to move stock from one place to another, frequently to market. Although known as a herding dog, particularly for cattle and geese, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was also useful as a ratter in the barn and could even retrieve fallen game.

The Pembroke (tail-less) and Cardigan (long-tailed) Welsh Corgis were shown together until 1934, when the Kennel Club (KC) officially recognized them as separate breeds. Since the 1930s, fanciers of one type or another have emphasized the breed's individualities -- the Pembroke is a bit lighter boned than the Cardigan, with a foxier look and straighter legs, as well as a lack of a tail. Britain's royal family took an interest in the Pembroke in the 1930s, which led to an increase in the breed's popularity. The Pembroke is the favored dog of Queen Elizabeth II, who owns several of them.

Personality:

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are personality plus -- bold but kind and noted for their intelligence and devotion. They tend to combine fearlessness and curiosity, and they enjoy exploring anything new. They are excellent problem solvers. They can be bossy and like to be in the center of activity and know what's going on. They are also playful and lovable, wanting nothing more than to be with their family as much as possible. Pembrokes are initially wary of strangers and can be territorial.

At home:

The size and sturdiness of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi make him ideal for most living arrangements, whether in an apartment or on a farm. These dogs like to bark -- quite a bit -- and make excellent watchdogs, as they take caring for their family with the utmost seriousness. They will early pursue anything that interests them, so a fenced-in yard is a necessity. Pembrokes are also fearless and will not hesitate to launch themselves from a bed, couch or even a grooming table, so a doggy ramp or steps may be in order.

Recommended activities:

Pembrokes are happy to participate in just about any activity their owner chooses, including: herding, obedience, agility, tracking or a backyard game of fetch.

Exercise:

Able-bodied and athletic, Pembrokes need daily exercise. They are happiest when they have a purpose, so exercise and mental stimulation keep them truly satisfied. They also love to be taken for long walks -- the more the merrier -- and to be played with as often as possible.

Feeding:

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are chowhounds who have the ability to look quite pathetic when their owner is having a snack and they are not. But letting a Pembroke become overweight will just lead to health problems. Feed a high-quality food twice a day.

Training:

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are responsive and intelligent, learn quickly, retain their lessons and work with enthusiasm. Although their intelligence makes them quick learners, it can also result in them becoming bored easily. Don't be surprised if a Pembroke puts his own special twist on an obedience command, just for the fun of it. They should be socialized from puppyhood on to bring out their confidence in unfamiliar situations.

Compatibility:

Males may be aggressive toward other dogs, so early and continued socialization is necessary. The breed loves children, but it's in the Corgi's nature to chase, and small children running through a yard may provoke him to chase them and nip at their heels. Pembrokes can get along with cats but may see small animals as prey.

Health:

The average life span of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 12 to 15 years. Common health problems of the breed include back problems, glaucoma and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Fun fact:

In 1944, on her 18th birthday, Queen Elizabeth II received a Corgi named Susan, and she has owned descendants of Susan ever since.

Grooming blurb:

Regular brushing and combing of his plush double coat are all the Corgi needs to stay looking his best. This breed sheds lightly all year round and very heavily twice a year.

Disclaimer:

This document has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this document, the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader's discretion.