Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a herding breed. This is a small short to the ground dog that averages in height from 10-13 inches. They weigh from 20-30 pounds but do love to eat so can easily pack on the pounds (which is not encouraged). They have athletic muscular builds which is/was ideal for their herding abilities.

It is proportionate in size to larger breeds just overall shorter to the ground. It has upright ears and the tails which can be naturally long are docked.

The tails can be both bobbed and long at birth, in many countries docking of the tail is illegal. In the US Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s for show have docked tails that can be no more than 2 inches long. The AKC (American Kennel Club) is the only club in the world that requires that a Corgi have a docked tail to be shown.

The color ranges from black to fawn and tri color options. The accepted colors by the AKC standards are 5 different combinations. Their coats are thick and medium length. Long haired Corgis are considered a defect. Their eyes are brown/black with black noses.

History

These historically relevant dogs are thought to have been brought with the Vikings when they sailed to Wales. The history of these dogs dates back to the 11th century. They are part Keehounds, Pomeranians,Saymoeds, Chow Chows, Norweigan Elk Hounds, Finnish Spitz and Shiperkes. The first Corgi Kennel Club was founded in 1925.

Temperament

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a highly intelligent dog that has an upbeat attitude. They are very willing to please. They make great family dogs because they are willing to befriend everyone. They are very curious and will follow their human companions where ever they go.

Pembrokes are high energy dogs and alert easily. They make excellent watch dogs because they typically do not bark without cause. They are always ready for the chase so it is always best to keep them inside closed fences. They are wonderful with children and adults and are easy to socialize to other animals. They are very intelligent and  highly trainable, and eager to please their human companions.

Care and Living Arrangements

Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s make great pets regardless of the living conditions, they can do well in an apartment with the right exercise. Of course they are very likely to thrive living in the country on a small farm doing what they were bred to do , herding other animals.

They do require a good bit of daily exercise to burn off some of their energy but that can be done on the end of a leash with a walk through a park in the city.

Health

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is built for good health! This is one of the hardiest breeds while there may be some genetic predisposition for hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy for the most part these are very healthy dogs.

The life expectancy of the Pembroke is up to 15 years with proper diet, exercise and regular check ups.

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