History

The Pembroke breed originated in Wales where they have been used as herding dogs, family companions and guardians of the farm. It is believed that their ancestry dates to at least the tenth century.

They may have descended either from the Vallhunds, Swedish cattle dogs brought to Pembrokeshire by the Vikings, or from the ancestors of the present-day Schipperkes and Pomeranians brought to Wales by Flemish weavers.

Corgis were recognized as purebred dogs in the United Kingdom in the 1920s. In 1934 the English Kennel Club recognized the Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis as separate breeds. The American Kennel Club recognition of the two distinct breeds also occurred in that same year The world’s most famous Pembroke Corgi fan was Queen Elizabeth II, who got her first Pembroke, Dookie, in 1933.

Best with:

Pembrokes are strong, athletic, and lively little herders. They love physical activity and are happiest when they have a job to do. As herders bred to move cattle, they are fearless and independent. Pembrokes are built long and low but have powerful legs, muscular thighs, and a deep chest that equip them for a hard day’s work. They are surprisingly quick and agile.

Pembrokes are bright, sensitive dogs who enjoy play with their human. They are an affectionate and companionable breed.

They are vigilant watchdogs, with acute senses and a ‘big dog’ bark.

Pembrokes often have a mind of their own, but they are energetic, willing, and highly intelligent partners who respond well to training. Positive, reward-based training works best with this sensitive breed.

Corgis benefit from moderate daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Pembrokes can do well on long walks or slow jogs, but their short legs won’t allow them to keep up with a bicycle rider or runners.

Not for:

• This is not a breed for an inactive owner.
• People who are not willing invest in training.
• People who live in an apartment or have no yard.
• People who need to leave their dog alone all day.

Pros:

• Generally are a biddable and fun-loving family dog.
• Families who can meet their need for activity and togetherness will never have a more loyal, loving pet.
• Willing to please and learn quickly.

Cons:

• Can be barky.
• Need to be watched carefully for developing obesity.  Added weight can be an extra strain on their long low back.
• Need consistent training.  They can be manipulative and will take charge if left to their own devices.  Training must be with positive methods as they be sensitive and shut down with negative techniques.

More Information:

Prembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America. https://pembrokecorgi.org/

Cascade Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club, https://cpwcc.org/

Characteristics

Size:

Females:  Average 10-12 inches at the shoulder, and roughly 25-28 pounds.

Males:  Average 10-12 inches at the shoulder, and roughly 27-30 pounds.

Color:

The outer coat is red, sable, fawn, black and tan with or without white markings.

Energy Level:

Pembrokes have a moderate energy level but require daily exercise for mental health and weight control.

Life expectancy:

11-14 years.

Children:

Pembrokes are generally gentle and playful with children.  However, when excited they may tend to nip at heels in play.

Other animals:

They are generally good with other dogs and pets.

Abilities:

Pembrokes excel in agility, flyball, tracking, and herding, but are not known for doing as well in the very formal competition obedience ring.

Shedding/Grooming:

Coat is medium length and somewhat coarse.  It requires brushing weekly to remove dead hair. Shedding is average that increases during late spring/early summer.

Health:

They are an overall healthy breed, with hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and eye conditions being the main health issues.

Their “long and low” body style also makes them susceptible to back issues. As they age, they may need assistance in jumping down off the bed or couch and being careful with stairs.