Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Training, Temperament, Exercise, Health

(Welsh Corgi)

AKC Ranking: 22

Group: AKC Herding, KCGB Pastoral

About Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Origin and History of the Breed The Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi are the 2 types of Welsh Corgis. The Pembroke and Cardigan breeds were basically interbred until about 1930. They may have been taken to Wales by the Vikings in the 800s or the Celts in about 1200 BC. “Corgi” is the Celtic word for dog. It may also be that the Flemish weavers took them in the 1100s. The breed developed in Pembrokeshire, Wales, and was used to drive cattle by nipping at their heels and barking. Because they are so low to the ground, they could avoid the kicks of the cattle. The Pembroke was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II.

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A General Appearance of the Dog

This is a long, low, somewhat heavy dog. The Pembroke is a compact, muscular package. He has nice, straight legs, a wedge-shaped head and stand-up ears. His head looks similar to a fox’s head. The Pembroke’s happy expression is often finished with a smile (with tongue hanging out). He usually has dark eyes and a black nose. As opposed to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, he has little or no tail.

Coat Color

The Pembroke’s coat can be red, sable, fawn, or black and tan (tri) – almost always with white markings on feet, tail, face, chest, and/or around the neck.

Coat Type

The undercoat is short to medium in length, thick and water-resistant. The outercoat is longer and slicker. The ruff around the neck is slightly thicker and longer.

Height: 10 -12 inches

Weight: 22 – 30 lbs

Personality

Temperament of the Dog

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a hearty, extremely active little dog. Outgoing, intelligent and obedient, he can also be wary of strangers to the point of timidness if not fully socialized and trained. Pembrokes are very protective of who and what they love.

They were bred to herd cattle (many times their size and weight) in all types of weather. Their low stature allowed them to stay clear of the kick of a cow. His herding was done by nipping at the cow’s heels and barking. Remember this history as you will often see your Pembroke move quickly, nip at your family’s heels, and even bark at you and other pets to try to get you to do his bidding.

They are capable problem solvers. They excel in and love obedience and agility.

Normally they are outgoing and friendly. Some sources say they are calmer than Cardigans while others say they are more restless and excitable.

As watchdogs, they bark to warn of a dangerous situation.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

This dogs cannot live outside fulltime, but do enjoy outdoor activities. They are very energetic and love lively games.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

Older children are favorites with Pembrokes. This is an easy breed for a pre-teen or teenager to obedience train. Pembrokes make great family dogs, but don’t like the way younger children sometimes treat them.

Activity Level

How Active is the Breed?

This is a very energetic and active breed.

How Much Exercise Does the Dog Need at every stage of its Life?

This breed will do okay in an urban setting as they are very active inside as well as outside. They love to play and will take advantage of toys for exercise.

They do need a long walk or romp outside each day.

Grooming

The coat needs a quick brushing every week or two unless it is spring or fall and they are shedding at which point they need more brushing.

Health and Care

Genetic Problems
This dogs are prone to PRA, glaucoma and back disorders. Beware of overfeeding and under-exercising as they will get too heavy as they age and then be even more likely to injure their backs.

Breeding the Dog and any Cautions

These dogs sometimes have trouble delivering and need a Caesarean section.

Life Span: Life span for Pembrokes is about 12-15 years.

National Breed Club

British – Welsh Corgi Club – http://www.the-welsh-corgi-club.co.uk
US – Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America, Inc. – http://www.pembrokecorgi.org

Other Recognition: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, CCR, APRI, ACR

Rescue link: www.pembrokecorgi.org/rescue.html