Pembroke Welsh Corgi Overview

At first glance, the Pembroke’s oddly proportioned body raises a question of why it looks the way it does. The breed originated as a herding dog, which grants it the quality of high intelligence. Its short legs act as an aid for herding, because the dog can nip at the heels of stubborn livestock. Furthermore, its long, rotund body allows it to roll to safety in case of frightened livestock kicking their hind legs in self-defense. 

Brilliant, affectionate, and good with children, the Pembroke is an ideal choice for anyone who prefers medium-sized dogs but does not have the space for one. But careful handling is a must, for the dog’s long body makes it highly vulnerable to back injury.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi History

The Pembrokeshire breed of Corgi, while younger in comparison to its Cardigan cousin, is a long-lived breed that traces its history all the way to the 12^th century. Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a significantly different history than the Cardigan, making their way across the English Channel by way of Flemish traders. 

The breed’s thick coat comes from a large number of ancestors, including the Pomeranian, Keeshond, Chow Chow, and Schipperke. Surprisingly, the Pembroke shares no ancestry with the Dachshund. 

As the breed’s popularity grew in the 19^th century, they were frequently combined with Cardigans and regarded as the same. But as the 20^th century grew near, enthusiasts strived to keep the Pembroke and Cardigan breeds separate, eventually finding their distinct places in AKC manuals.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Character

Queen Elizabeth II favors Corgis over any other dog; so much so, it is reported that she owns 16 of them in her royal home. Not surprising, because the Pembroke is one of those dogs that has character to spare. 

Gifted, playful, and relatively small, this dog will thrive in an apartment, ranch, or anywhere else alongside their owner. While exercise is not a great requirement, this dog is an accomplished athlete in spite of what its stature might imply. 

Under strong leadership, a well-trained Corgi excels as both a working dog and as a competitor in obedience competitions. If given the chance, this little dog will prove how wily it is time and time again. Obedience training is highly recommended, as this breed has energy to spare. Leave it to its own devices for too long, and it will channel its excess energy by herding youngsters, nipping at their heels and playfully tackling them. 

With a little care and training, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is both a nobleman and a clown at heart.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Care

This breed requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing will minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when necessary. It is important to keep the nails trimmed to prevent splaying of the feet. Their ears need to be checked and cleaned on a consistent basis. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is prone to cataracts, retinal and hip dysplasia, epilepsy, disk disease, and Von Willebrand's disease.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Training

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi's intelligence and willingness to please make them easily trained. However, they do not enjoy repetitive training as they easily become bored. They require early socialization and obedience. They excel in tracking, agility, herding, and conformation. This breed is also used for therapy and as hearing ear dogs. Training should be done with consistency, positive reinforcement, firmness, and fairness.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Health

Common Health Issues for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Resources