Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)

Size: Medium
Other Names: Pembroke, PWC, Pem, Corgi
Country of Origin: Wales
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Herding
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Herding
United Kennel Club (UKC): Herding Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Working Dogs
The Kennel Club (KC): Pastoral
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Herding
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Working Dogs

Height:

10-12 inches

Weight:

Male: 27-30 pounds; Female: 25-28 pounds

Color(s):

Red, sable, fawn, or tri-color (black and tan); with or without white markings on the legs, chest, neck, muzzle, underneath, and as a narrow blaze on the head.

Coat:

Double; short undercoat; longer thicker overcoat

Description:

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of two separate dog breeds, known as Welsh Corgis, that originated in Wales.  The name comes from his area of origin, Pembrokeshire, Wales.  He was originally bred for herding sheep, horses, and cattle, bred long and low to make sure that any kicks by cattle would travel safely over the dog without touching him.  His short legs may seen to be a disadvantage, but he can run and jump just as well as any other dog of comparable size.  He is still highly valued for his herding, working, and guarding skills, as well as companionship.

Temperament:

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a highly intelligent, active, athletic dog, who has proven himself to be an excellent, devoted companion.  He is typically a "one-person" dog, who reserves his affection for a select few with whom he is familiar.  He tends to be wary of strangers, and can be an alert and responsible guardian.  He can happily live in an apartment, as long as he has access to open space.

Training:

If socialized at a young age, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi can get along with other dogs and house pets.

Care & Grooming:

Welsh Corgis need daily physical and mental stimulation.  For their size, they need a surprising amount of exercise, which, due to their working heritage, is best met in open space.  Care should be taken to keep the Corgi from becoming overweight, as this could lead to related health problems.  They need to be brushed regularly, to reduce shedding.  Many believe the volume of shed fur can be significantly reduced by the addition of fish oil supplements containing omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids.

Shedding:

Moderate to heavy seasonally; the double coat blows in spring and fall.

Health:

Pembroke Welsh Corgis may develop intervertebral disc disease, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy.  Keep them lean; extra weight is hard on the long back.

Lifespan:

12–13 years

Litter Size:

4–6 puppies