Description:
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small-to medium-sized dog breed although it acts more like a “big dog” on short legs. The Pembroke has a fairly strong body with short strong legs and either no tail or a shortened tail which is usually docked in countries that permit it. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi can be distinguished from its cousin, the Pembroke, because it has a longer body and a brush-like tail. Both these Welsh Corgi dog breeds have fox-shaped faces and medium to large-sized ears that are slightly rounded and erect. The Pembroke has a medium length water-resistant coat. Colors can be red, beige, or black-and-tan; with or without white markings on the chest neck and legs. The Pembroke stands about 10-12 inches at shoulder height and weighs from 18 to 24 pounds. Welsh Corgis are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Herding Group.
History:
The Pembroke was probably developed in Wales from progenitors brought to 12th century Pembrokeshire, Wales, by Flemish weavers. Welsh Corgis were developed to herd cattle, guard the farm and hunt rats and other small animals. The Pembroke has always been popular with the British Royal Family. The Pembroke and Cardigan were recognized as separate breeds in the UK in 1934 and the U.S. in 1936. The popular Pembroke was ranked 23rd out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations.
Temperament:
The Pembroke is an energetic, agile, intelligent, gentle and loving dog. The Pembroke is devoted to its family and makes a terrific companion dog. Pembroke's are calmer than Cardigans and tend to be a little less accepting of unfamiliar people and dogs. Pembroke's get along fine with older considerate children but not toddlers or very young children. This breed is very intelligent and can be easily trained to respond to voice commands or for agility competitions. The Pembroke makes a good watchdog and is suitable for first-time dog owners.
Exercise:
The Pembroke enjoys a moderate amount of exercise and likes to be kept busy. The breed loves to play ball and participate in agility games and competitions. The Pembroke is quite adaptable and can live in an apartment as long as it gets outside for exercise.
Grooming:
The Pembroke’s coat needs little grooming beyond a weekly brushing except when shedding and a daily brushing is required. This breed is a moderate shedder.
Health Considerations:
Corgis can be expected to live for 12 to 15 years and have no serious common health concerns. Less common disorders include hip dysplasia, Von Willebrands disease (mild bleeding disorder), back problems and eye disease (cataracts, corneal Dystrophy and retinal dysplasia). Buyers of Pembroke puppies should ask to see the parent’s OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) certificate and the recent CERF (Canine Eye Registry) results for eye diseases. Be careful not to overfeed this dog as excess weight is hard on its back.
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