The small yet mighty dog breed Corgi is adored by millions of pet enthusiasts worldwide for its fascinating history and captivating visual allure. These canines are renowned for their distinctive appearance, featuring short legs, fox-like faces, and charming personalities.
These pint-sized herding dogs' remarkable intelligence and agility make them adept at various tasks, from herding livestock to excelling in obedience competitions.
A Brief Overview Of The Welsh Corgis
Breed Size: Small
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 25-30 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Coat Type: Dense, double coat
Coat Color: Red, sable, fawn, and black, often accompanied by white markings
Pembroke Welsh Corgis History
The Welsh Pembroke Corgis traces its origins back to Wales, United Kingdom that dates as far back as the 10th century. These canines are believed to have descended from Swedish Vallhunds brought to Wales by Viking invaders.
The breed's association with royalty is nothing short of legendary, particularly with Britain's beloved monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.
The Queen owned over 30 Corgis during her reign, starting with her first Corgi named Dookie. This made Corgis iconic symbols of the British monarchy.
Small Dogs
The Corgi breed of dog is a charming small breed, like the Pomeranians, renowned for its distinctive appearance and spirited personality. These pint-sized canines stand between 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 25 to 30 pounds.
Distinctive Physique
The Corgi breed of dogs are famous for their distinctive appearance, featuring short legs and a long body which gives them a uniquely charming appearance. This physique is a result of their ancient herding heritage, where their low-to-the-ground stature helped them maneuver swiftly and effectively.
With their sturdy build and elongated torsos, they possess a remarkable agility that belies their diminutive size. Their short legs, coupled with their strong, muscular bodies, enable them to navigate diverse terrain with ease which makes them versatile working dogs.
Expressive Visage
The Welsh Corgi boasts a captivating array of facial features, including their distinctive erect ears which stand alert atop their heads like charming little satellites. These ears enhance their ability to communicate through subtle gestures.
Alongside their perky ears, their bright eyes sparkle with curiosity and warmth, reflecting their keen intellect and affectionate nature. Completing their engaging countenance is their characteristic foxy muzzle, adorned with a sweet often smiling expression.
World-Class Herding Dogs
The breed of Corgi stands proudly as one of the world's premier herding dogs, given their exceptional intelligence, agility, and natural instinct for working livestock. They offer a wide range from rounding up livestock to diligently guarding the homestead.
These dogs tend to herd by nipping at cattle's heels, just like the Blue Heelers, and barking to direct their movements. These dogs have a penchant for herding anything in their vicinity, from other animals to children and even adults.
Big Personalities
The dog breed Corgis is renowned for its delightful personality that has a harmonious blend of intelligence, loyalty and a touch of mischief. Despite their small stature, these dogs possess a big heart and a bold spirit.
Intelligence
These dogs are incredibly smart, ranking as the 11th smartest breed which showcases their ability to learn quickly and excel in obedience training. This trait is evident in in their adaptability and problem-solving skills, allowing them to excel in various activities and tasks.
These petite canines enjoy engaging in activities that challenge their intellect, such as obedience training, agility courses and interactive games. From basic obedience commands to more complex tasks, these clever canines excel in training sessions.
Affection
The Welsh Corgi pups can form deep bonds with their families and spread love wherever they go. They are always eager to shower their humans with cuddles, kisses and unwavering loyalty.
Their playful nature and love for games make them great companions for families with children or active individuals. This affection often extends to strangers, making them wonderful ambassadors for the breed.
The Smiling Breed
Their expressive eyes and smiling faces often melt the hearts of those around them, earning them the nickname 'The Smiling Breed.' This unique feature is attributed to their physical anatomy, particularly their slightly upturned mouths and round, expressive eyes.
When Corgis are content or excited, their mouths often curl upward at the corners, creating a charming grin-like appearance. This endearing trait has endeared them to countless admirers and earned them a reputation as cheerful and amiable companions.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of a Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog typically ranges from 12 to 15 years, provided with proper care and attention. Genetics, diet, exercise and overall healthcare play crucial roles in determining a Corgi's lifespan.
Health Issues
These charming dogs are generally healthy but they are predisposed to certain health issues which need to be taken care of. Some major health issues these canines have to face include:
Hip Dysplasia - This is a genetic condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to discomfort and eventually arthritis.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) - It is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine degenerate, leading to pain and mobility issues.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - It is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually leads to blindness.
Degenerative Myelopathy - This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that leads to hind limb weakness and paralysis.
Obesity - Corgis love food and are prone to overeating, which can lead to obesity.
Allergies - These dogs can develop allergies to various environmental factors such as pollen, dust or certain foods, leading to skin irritation and discomfort.
Dietary Needs
The Welsh Corgis are highly active breeds so they require a balanced diet rich in protein for muscle development and energy. Quality commercial dog food formulated for small to medium-sized breeds is the best option to meet their nutritional requirements.
Owners need to follow a consistent feeding pattern for their Corgis to ensure their well-being. Here is a sample dietary plan:
- Get high-quality, premium commercial dog food preferably with real meat listed as the first ingredient.
- Divide your pup's daily food allowance into two or three meals to prevent overeating.
- These dogs benefit from a diet rich in high-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, beef, or fish.
- While treats can be a fun way to reward your Corgi, they should be given in moderation to prevent excess calorie intake.
- Provide access to fresh, clean water at all times to keep your pup hydrated
Grooming Needs
Despite their thick double coats, Corgis have moderate grooming needs that require regular brushing. This helps to keep their coat in good condition and minimize shedding. Their dense undercoat sheds heavily twice a year, so during these times, more frequent brushing helps manage loose fur and prevents mats.
To keep your pup looking and feeling their best, owners can create a tailored grooming routine and follow it. Here is a little guide to get you started:
1. Daily Brushing - Use a slicker brush or de-shedding tool to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Focus on areas prone to tangling, such as behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail.
2. Weekly Nail Trimming - Trim your Corgi's nails weekly to keep them at a comfortable length. Be cautious not to cut too close to the quick which can cause bleeding and discomfort.
3. Bi-weekly Ear Cleaning - Check your pup's ears regularly for signs of wax buildup, redness, or irritation. Clean them with a veterinarian-approved ear cleaner to prevent infections.
4. Monthly Bathing - Bath your Welsh Corgi dog once a month or as needed, using a gentle dog shampoo to avoid stripping their coat of natural oils. Be sure to thoroughly rinse to prevent skin irritation.
5. Monthly Dental Care - Brush your furry friend's teeth at least once a month using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to prevent dental issues and maintain fresh breath.
Care For The Welsh Corgis
Caring for these wonderful furry companions involves a blend of attention to living space and exercise needs, to keep them happy and healthy.
Exercise Needs
These Corgis may be small in stature, but they possess boundless energy and require regular exercise to stay healthy. These agile pups thrive on daily walks, romps in the yard, or engaging in interactive play sessions.
They love to participate in stimulating activities such as agility training, obedience classes, or even sports like flyball or herding trials. Furthermore, puzzle toys or training sessions can help keep their active minds occupied.
Living Environment
These small canines adapt well to various living environments, but there are some key considerations to keep in mind. While they can thrive in apartments or smaller homes, access to a secure outdoor space for exercise and play is essential.
These dogs love to explore, so a fenced yard provides them with the freedom to roam safely. Furthermore, Corgis enjoy having a cozy spot to curl up in, whether it is a soft bed or a favorite blanket.
Training Needs
Training a Pembroke Welsh dog is both rewarding and essential, given their intelligence and strong-willed nature. Starting early with socialization and basic obedience training sets a solid foundation for a well-behaved adult pup.
Consistency and patience are key, as Corgis can be independent thinkers and may test boundaries. Teaching basic dog commands is essential for safety and control while leash training is important to prevent pulling during walks.
Interesting Facts About Corgis
1. Pembroke Welsh Corgis is a star breed that has been featured in various movies, TV shows and advertisements, further solidifying their status as beloved canine celebrities. They have graced the silver screen in films like The Queen's Corgi and The Secret Life of Pets.
2. The breed's name Corgi is derived from Welsh words meaning 'dwarf dog,' which reflects their small stature compared to other herding breeds. The word Pembroke also refers to the county of Pembrokeshire in Wales.
3. These canines tend to be vocal and they often use barks and yips to communicate with their owners and alert them to potential dangers or visitors. Interestingly, their vocalizations may also use a variety of other sounds including whines, grumbles, and even 'singing' noises.
4. These dogs have enchanted legends surrounding them, with tales of fairy saddles and origins from woodland creatures' steeds. They are believed to have been bestowed upon Welsh farmers, imbuing them with magical qualities to aid in herding cattle.
Buying Or Adopting A Corgis
If you are looking for a loyal, intelligent, and affectionate companion then the Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be the ideal choice for you. These diminutive furry companions bring boundless joy and entertainment to any household.
While a purebred Corgi may be appealing there are several Corgi mixes as well which have surged in popularity. These include the Cowboy Corgi (a Blue Heeler Corgi mix), Husky Corgi Mix, German Shepherd Corgi mix, and Pitbull Corgi Mix.
- Average Price of the Pembroke Welsh Corgis: between $1,000 to $2,200
In the United States, several reputable Breed Organizations and Rescue Groups specialize in Pembroke Welsh Corgis, offering opportunities to adopt these charming dogs:
American Kennel Club (AKC) - their Breeder Referral program connects potential buyers with breeders who follow AKC guidelines and standards
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America (PWCCA) - offer a breeder referral service to help individuals find ethical breeders
United States Pembroke Welsh Corgi Association (USPWCA) - they provide educational resources, health information, and breeder referrals to ensure the well-being of the breed
Corgi Connection of Kansas - this organization works with a network of volunteers and fosters to provide care and support for the breed
