Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Information
This long, low breed of dog, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, is similar to the Cardigan Welsh Corgi but is now recognized as a separate breed. Some histories trace the Corgi to Swedish dogs more than a thousand years ago.
Others believe the breed begins in Wales about 1200 B.C. In either case, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was used as a cattle dog in Pembrokeshire, Wales. The two breeds were recognized as separate in England in the 1930s.
The Pembroke is a very intelligent dog, sensitive to the needs of its master and responsive to gentle handling and training. This breed can be a challenge to train and the dog may try to “con” its master, especially if given half a chance. However, with proper breeding and socialization, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be an excellent family pet.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Temperament
The Corgi has always been a working dog, often used to nip at the heels of cattle to drive them. The dog’s low profile allowed them to avoid being kicked by the cattle. Pembroke Welsh Corgis will bark quite a bit and can make excellent watchdogs, in addition to being comfortable with children that are not overly aggressive. Corgis are generally good-natured and devoted to family members.
Basic obedience training is probably a good idea for a new Pembroke Welsh Corgi that will be brought into the family. Most Corgis will be obedient with basic training, but even so, the dog should not be allowed to run free. It would probably be best to have a fenced yard for the pet to run in. Taking your Pembroke Welsh Corgi for several daily walks would probably be best.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Size and Color
Pembroke Welsh Corgis stand about 10 inches to 12 inches tall and weigh from 24 to 28 pounds. Experienced owners urge new owners to be careful about overfeeding the Corgi, as it tends to gain weight easily.
Corgis can have red, sable, fawn or black and tan coats with white markings. Some say the legend of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of being used by fairies for various purposes. This legend points to the “fairy saddle” on the shoulders that is part of the Corgi coat.
The American Kennel Club considers a predominantly white or bluish color to be unacceptable for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Feeding and Grooming Requirements
New owners of Pembroke Welsh Corgis should avoid overfeeding their pet, as this breed tends to gain weight easily. Feeding high-quality commercial food should be fine in the proper amounts, but low-cost food with excessive grain content (corn, wheat, soy) should be avoided.
Some dogs are allergic to these grains and develop skin and breathing problems in reaction to the large amounts of grain in cheaper commercial foods. Remember, table scraps and treats should be limited.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally easy to groom because of its short, water-resistant coat. Some regular combing and brushing will usually be sufficient. The Corgi sheds twice a year. The dog should be bathed only when absolutely, necessary.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Exercise Needs
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has always been a working dog, helping farmers drive cattle and acting as a guard dog for the farm. This breed is quite energetic and will need a fenced yard to run in or regular walks on a leash. The Corgi can tend to gain extra weight if the diet and exercise are not in correct amounts.
This breed should probably not be allowed to run free, even though a well-trained Corgi will be obedient. This is an intelligent and inquisitive breed and the small size can make confrontations with larger dogs a problem.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis have done quite well in some obedience and show competitions.
Read More About Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi : 10 Most Common Questions
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi Training Guide
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi Health Guide
- Owning a Pembroke Welsh Corgi : Breeder Recommendations
