Dog Breed Spotlight: Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Beloved by royalty and families alike, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an iconic breed recognized for its short legs, long body, and cheerful expression. These adorable dogs are known for their affectionate nature and make excellent companions. While Corgis have moderate energy levels, they bring a whole lot of love and loyalty to their families.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Pembroke Welsh Corgi
If you’re considering adopting a Pembroke Welsh Corgi for the first time, it’s important to understand their needs and know what to expect when bringing this delightful furball into your home:
- Are you active? While Corgis aren’t the most energetic breed, they still need about an hour of playtime to stay healthy and happy.
- Can you manage grooming? Corgis shed regularly and need brushing 2-3 times a week to maintain their thick, double coat. They may not be the best choice for allergy sufferers.
- Are you social? Corgis thrive on social interaction, and their adorable looks often attract attention from strangers who want to say hello.
- Do you have time for training? Corgis are highly intelligent but can also be stubborn. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement make for successful training.
The History of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated in Wales, where they were bred as herding dogs for cattle and sheep. Their compact size and agility made them excellent workers on farms. Although they still have herding instincts (don’t be surprised if your Corgi tries to “herd” you during playtime), they are now primarily known to be family companions.
Known for their loyalty and loving nature, Corgis have become a beloved breed worldwide, further popularized by their close association with Queen Elizabeth of England.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Personality and Temperament
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are wonderful family pets, especially for households with children. They are super loyal and protective of their loved ones. While Corgis generally get along well with other pets, it’s important to introduce them carefully, as individual behavior can be unpredictable. Known for their adventurous spirit and independent nature, Corgis can sometimes be stubborn, making early training essential to help them develop good habits.
Grooming Needs
As mentioned earlier, Corgis do indeed shed. It’s important to brush them 2-3 times a week to keep their coat healthy. Keep your corgis teeth healthy by brushing them weekly, and get their nails trimmed monthly.
Healthcare and Lifespan
Pembroke Welsh Corgis have an average lifespan of 10-13 years. Like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues. Common conditions affecting Corgis include:
- Hip Dysplasia – A common condition where pain in the hip joints can lead to arthritis over time.
- Degenerative Myelopathy – A spinal condition that can affect older Corgis, causing progressive weakness in the legs.
- Von Willebrand Disease – A hereditary bleeding disorder often found in Pembroke Welsh Corgis.
- Obesity – Corgis can easily gain weight, so regular exercise, a balanced diet, and daily socialization are essential for maintaining a healthy and happy pup.
Fun Facts About Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Corgis are royalty! Queen Elizabeth II owned over 30 Pembroke Welsh Corgis during her reign, which helped boost their popularity worldwide.
- TV superstar – Cheddar, the good fluffy boy, is Captain Holt’s adorable pet in the show Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
- Amazon’s little helper – One of the original mascots of Amazon was Rufus, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi who belonged to Amazon’s former editor-in-chief and principal engineer.
Check out our available Pembroke Welsh Puppies today!
