Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh corgi originated from Wales in the Pembrokeshire area. Another older breed of Corgi is the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, which was initially used to develop the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Corgis were used as farm dogs, and they are good with cattle; with their low-to-the-ground build, they nip cattle on the heels and can duck and avoid the kicks from the cattle. Due to their small build, it was less expensive to keep them, and their naturally bobbed tail meant that they were working dogs, which made them exempt from taxes. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was gifted to the Queen of England, and her love of the breed has been instrumental in making Corgi dogs popular as family pets.

Male corgis can range from 26 to 28 lbs., and females range from 24 to 26 lbs. A male Corgi, on average, is 12 inches in height, and a female, on average, is 10 inches in height. Corgi’s usually are at full size at one year of age. They have a long back, upright ears and short bowed legs. They require 20 to 40 minutes of exercise per day as their energy level is average. They have a double but short waterproof coat, and their overall grooming needs are low. There are several colours that corgis tend to come in: Red, Sable, Fawn, Black and Tan, and they can be with or without flashings. As was mentioned earlier, Corgi’s are herding dogs and enjoy herding cattle in particular. Corgi’s usually have closely docked tails, and some puppies are born with a natural bobtail. Corgis tend to have back problems as they are longer in their bodies than they are tall.

Corgis are very animated dogs who enjoy being a part of the action; they see themselves as large dogs in small dog bodies. They have quick intelligence and a very forceful will. Corgis are very energetic dogs; they are quick on their feet and have a very strong determination. Corgis graded the farmhouse, hunting vermin and herding the livestock. Corgis love to work and excel at agility competitions. They are quick to learn tricks and appear to have a sense of humour at times. They are great watchdogs and often are prone to alarm barking when it is not necessary. Corgi’s need a kind but firm hand when in training, if left by themselves too often they can get into lots of trouble.

Enjoy your Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and remember to have a 72-hour health check with your veterinarian on your new family member.

Written by Shannon Knox – Practice Manager