<C>Weight:</C> up to 30 pounds (male); up to 28 (female).
<C>Size:</C> Small.
<C>Availability:</C> May take some effort to find.
<b>History:</> There are several theories about the origins of the Welsh Corgi. Both Corgi varieties may be descended from Swedish Vallhunds brought to Wales by Vikings in the 800's. Or perhaps the Cardigan is the older variety, brought to Wales by the Celts in about 1200 BC (the name Corgi comes from the Celtic word for dog, "corgi"). Another source claims that the Pembroke variety was brought to Wales by Flemish weavers in the 1100's. No matter what the breed's true early history, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed developed in Pembrokeshire, Wales, and was used to drive cattle by nipping their heels and barking. His low stature helped him run under the cattle's legs without getting injured by kicks. The Pembroke and Cardigan varieties were freely interbred until the 1930's, after which time breeders tried to accentuate their differences. A Pembroke Welsh Corgi is well-known as the favorite breed and pet of Queen Elizabeth II. Because of royal favor, and perhaps because of a slightly gentler personality, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has become very popular, while the Cardigan is not as widespread.
<b>Description:</> A long, low dog with large erect ears, a broad flat skull and a fox-like head. The Pembroke's tail is almost non-existent; the Cardigan variety has a long tail. The Pembroke's eyes are dark, preferably with black rims, and the nose is black. The soft coat comes in red, sable, fawn or black and tan, usually with white markings. The Pembroke generally has straighter legs and is not quite as long-bodied as the Cardigan. The Pembroke's head is generally more wedge-shaped, with pointed ears.
<b>Notes:</> Tends to nip at people's heels (herding behavior), though this behavior can be trained out. A good traveler. Prone to PRA, glaucoma and back disorders. Buy only from CERF-certified stock. Don't overfeed as this breed tends to put on weight easily.
<b>Personality:</> Hardy, highly intelligent, obedient, protective and devoted. Spunky. A large dog in a small dog's body. A good obedience dog. Should be properly socialized and trained when young to avoid over-protective behavior as an adult. Some Pembrokes are more outgoing, restless and excitable than the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Several of these brave dogs have lost their lives defending their homes; they were too small for the situation.
<b>Behavior:</>
<C>Children:</C> Best with older, considerate children.
<C>Friendliness:</C> Reserved with strangers.
<C>Trainability:</C> Easy to train.
<C>Independence:</C> Not particularly dependent or independent.
<C>Dominance:</C> Moderate.
<C>Other Pets:</C> Good with other pets if raised with them from puppyhood.
<C>Combativeness:</C> Friendly with other dogs.
<C>Noise:</C> Average barker.
<b>Grooming and Physical Needs:</>
<C>Grooming:</C> A little grooming needed.
<C>Trimming & Stripping:</C> No trimming or stripping needed.
<C>Coat:</C> Short coat.
<C>Shedding:</C> Average shedder.
<C>Docking:</C> The tail is customarily docked.
<C>Exercise:</C> Moderate exercise needed.
<C>Jogging:</C> Small, but a pretty good jogging companion.
<C>Indoors:</C> Very active indoors.
<C>Apartments:</C> Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
<C>Outdoor Space:</C> Does all right without a yard.
<C>Climate:</C> Does well in most climates.
<C>Owner:</C> Good for novice owners.
<C>Longevity:</C> Moderately long lived (12 to 15 years).
<b>Talents:</> herding, watchdog, guarding, and competitive obedience.
<b>For More Information:</>
Call the AKC Breeder Referral Hotline: 1-900-407-PUPS for the name of a breeder referral representative in your area. Cost is 99 cents per minute.
<b>Photo Caption:</> PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI
Photo copyright: Cook PhoDOGraphy 1995. All rights reserved.
