01/Overview
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, or simply the Pembroke or even the Corgi, is a robust canine with a distinctive appearance and a bold outlook on life. The breed was originally developed to herd sheep and cattle on remote farms in Wales where it needed to be tough, agile, and resilient. The Pembroke is unmistakable for its low-set body, "foxy" head, and bobbed or docked tail. These hard-working herders are also highly regarded for their outgoing personalities and their smooth and easy movement, despite the dogs' short legs. Because of the breed’s friendly and lively disposition, the typical Pembroke makes a wonderful family companion for many people today.
Highlights
02/History
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, which originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a charming dog with a folkloric background. The Pembroke, according to Welsh legend, arose from the lairs of fairies and elves! As a creature of mythological origin, it has been said that two children were out in the fields caring for their family's livestock when they came across a couple of puppies.
Historians, however, claim the Pembroke is derived from the Vallhund, Swedish livestock dogs brought to Wales by the Vikings in the ninth and tenth centuries. Others believe this Corgi is derived from dogs brought to Wales by Flemish weavers in the 12th century. In either case, the breed has a hazy historical pedigree.
Farmers who kept working dogs bred only their best workers for the jobs they needed to be performed. They didn't, however, always keep accurate records of the matings. When the dogs were first exhibited at shows in 1925, they were known simply as Welsh Corgis. Pembrokes and Cardigans were presented in the same class as a single breed at the time. Ultimately, The Royal Kennel Club recognized the two as distinct breeds in 1934.
The most visible distinction between the two breeds today are their ears and tails. The Pembroke's ears are pointed and erect, while the Cardigan's are large and rounded. The Cardi's tail is significantly longer than the Pembroke's, which has historically been docked.
Elizabeth II is the world's most famous Pembroke fan. "Dookie," the queen's first Pembroke, was purchased in 1933, and she was never without one throughout her long and illustrious life.
03/Appearance
Mature male Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically stand between 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder, with females measuring slightly less.
Male Pembrokes usually weigh up to 30 pounds, while females generally weigh around 28 pounds.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a short, sturdy breed known for its distinctive silhouette. The breed has a well-proportioned body with a broad and deep chest, and well-sprung ribs. Body length is greater than the height at the withers by 40 percent, as measured from the withers to the base of the tail and from the withers to the ground. Pembrokes have moderate bone, appearing neither coarse nor racy.
Texture: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a weather-resistant double coat, with a short, thick undercoat and a straight, coarse overcoat of medium length. The coat is perfectly suited for the weather extremes of its native Wales. The length of the outer coat varies over the body, with a slightly thicker and longer ruff around the neck, chest, and shoulders, and slightly longer on the backs of the forelegs and hindquarters. The coat may have some waviness, but a tightly marcelled coat, wiry coat, or a long and soft coat described as “fluffy” are unacceptable.
Standard Colors
Standard Markings
04/Consider
With its affable, alert, and affectionate nature, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi can be a wonderful addition to the family. However, it is important to be aware of the responsibilities that come with owning one of these dogs. Corgis may be small, but they are active and require space to run and play. Although some individuals can adapt to apartment living, having a yard and outdoor space is beneficial. Intelligent and loyal, Corgis can be bossy and vocal, so training is essential to keep these things under control.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, some can be prone to specific health concerns. It's important for prospective Corgi owners to be aware of the potential risks and work with a responsible breeder who prioritizes the health of their dogs. The average lifespan of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 12 to 13 years, but with proper care, a balanced diet, and regular vet visits, many can thrive beyond these years.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a breed that combines many useful and unusual characteristics. Its physical form makes it one of the most memorable of all dog breeds, and its charming personality offers a delightful blend of intelligence, affection, and a dash of stubbornness. Altogether, this is an effective and entertaining little dog.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Pembroke's personality is its remarkable intelligence. These dogs are quick learners, known for their intelligent outlook as much as for their affection. They are incredibly devoted towards their human companions and form strong bonds with their families. Their love and loyalty are not limited to one family member but are typically offered to everyone in the household.
One of the unique traits of the breed is its sense of humor and playfulness. These corgis have a knack for entertaining their owners with their quirky antics and playfulness.
Pembrokes are also known for their alertness and rather protective nature. Despite their small size, they make excellent watchdogs, barking to alert their owners of any potential intruders or unusual occurrences. This protective instinct, combined with their devotion to duty, makes them a great choice for urban and rural families.
It is essential to reiterate that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi does have a stubborn streak. These short-legged dogs were originally bred as herders, a job which required them to make decisions independently. This self-reliance can sometimes be viewed as stubbornness, especially if the dog believes it has a better idea on how things should be done. Patience and consistent training are keys to managing this aspect of the breed's character.
Exercise Expectations
With a heritage deeply rooted in herding cattle and other livestock, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is accustomed to an active lifestyle. This genetic predisposition translates into the need for daily exercise and activity. A typical day should include at least 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity, which can be achieved through daily walks, play sessions, and interactive games. The Pembroke's love of play is unmatched, and activities such as games of fetch, tug-of-war, and frisbee are excellent ways to keep the dog engaged and in good shape. Exercise is not limited to physical exertion, however. Mental stimulation is equally vital, as these dogs are incredibly intelligent. Their minds need to be engaged to prevent boredom and any unwanted behavioral issues. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and obedience training provide mental challenges that keep their cognitive abilities sharp. For the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, exercise and training also offer opportunities for socialization. Encounters with other dogs, people, and new environments promote positive interactions and can inhibit any shyness or fearfulness. Positive experiences will help to create a confident and well-adjusted Corgi.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a breed brimming with energy and playfulness. The dog's zest for life is contagious, and it's impossible not to be swept up by all that good energy. Living with a Pembroke is always an enriching experience, with plenty of activity, affection, and endless laughter.
One of the most endearing qualities of a Pembroke is its unwavering loyalty. These dogs form deep and unbreakable bonds with their human companions. They also make excellent watchdogs and will alert their owners to any potential intruder or unusual occurrence. Their courage and determination are truly impressive.
Corgis are famous for their "Corgi flop," a signature move where they plop down on their fronts with their hind legs sticking out. It's one of the many charming quirks that endear these dogs to their families. Every "flop" is a reminder of their delightful and sometimes comical nature.
Corgis are active dogs, and they thrive on regular exercise. Daily walks, playtime, and games of fetch are not just activities but also opportunities for bonding and keeping the Corgi healthy and fit. Because they're so intelligent and curious, they also enjoy toys and games that stimulate their minds as well as their bodies.
The double coat of the Corgi requires regular attention to grooming. Brushing and caring for the coat removes any dead hair and distributes the coat's natural oils, but it also becomes an act of love and devotion. Regular grooming sessions provide opportunities for strengthening the bond between the Corgi and its groomer as much as it keeps the plush, weather-resistant coat in top condition.
05/Puppies
Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies are bundles of joy, a source of endless delight, and the promise of unconditional love. From their distinctive appearance to their spirited personalities, these little wonders have a way of capturing hearts and brightening any room. However, their boundless energy, bold outlook on life, and natural instinct to herd require patience and understanding from their human families.
The pint-sized Pembroke possesses an irresistible charm that easily captures hearts. Caring for this puppy, however, is both a pleasure and a privilege that involves dedication, love, and the responsibility of ensuring the young one's health and happiness.
Puppy-proofing the living space is crucial, including removing hazards, securing electrical cords, and making sure any toxic product and plant are out of reach. The Corgi puppy is naturally curious, so it's important to create a safe environment.
Proper nutrition is the foundation of the Pembroke puppy's growth and development. Providing a balanced diet, which includes a high-quality puppy food and fresh water, is essential for supporting the pup's growth.
Early training and socialization are also key to raising a well-adjusted Corgi. Crate training can be a useful tool for housebreaking and provides a safe space for the puppy. It's also important to teach basic obedience skills and offer regular exercise and play sessions throughout the day.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy is well-known for its playful nature and boundless energy, but like any puppy, it benefits greatly from regular exposure to various people, animals, and environments. This early socialization allows the pup to be comfortable in different situations and it can prevent many unwanted behavioral issues.
06/Activities
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are highly active and intelligent dogs that thrive when engaged in physical activities such as dog sports. These events not only provide exercise, they can also stimulate the breed's sharp mind and satisfy its herding instincts.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Pembroke Welsh Corgi is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
09/Rescue
10/Facts
Herding Heritage
Pembroke Welsh Corgis were originally bred for herding cattle and other livestock. Despite their small stature, their skills are remarkable, as they are known for nipping at the heels of much larger animals.
No Tails
Many Pembrokes are born with short tails, and some are even born without tails, which is a natural trait. Historically, tail docking has commonly been a part of this breed's legacy.
Saddle Markings
Many Pembrokes have a distinct "saddle" marking on their backs, which is a darker patch of hair that resembles a saddle.
Low to the Ground
Corgis are known for their short legs, which give them a unique appearance. Despite their diminutive size, however, they are quite agile and can move with remarkable speed and agility.
Great with Children
Pembrokes are known for their affection and are often a great choice as a family dog. They are playful and protective, making them wonderful companions for children.
Prolific Barkers
Corgis are known for their vocal nature. They are not shy about using their voice to communicate with their owners or to alert the family to strangers at the door.
Adaptability
Pembrokes are adaptable dogs that can live in various environments, from apartment settings to verdant farms and working ranches. They are also known for their adaptability to different lifestyles and family lifestyles.
Royal Connection
Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a royal lineage. They were the preferred dogs of Queen Elizabeth II who owned several Corgis throughout her life. The breed's popularity in the UK even led to an increased interest worldwide.
11/FAQ
Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically have a lifespan of around 12 to 13 years. Like any dog, their longevity can be influenced by their overall health, diet, and exercise. With proper attention to their physical needs, including regular excursions outdoors and a good feeding regimen, and with regular veterinary care, these dogs typically enjoy a long and fulfilling life.
Official Standard of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi
General Appearance: Low-set, strong, sturdily built and active, giving an impression of substance and stamina in a small space. Should not be so low and heavy-boned as to appear coarse or overdone, nor so light-boned as to appear racy. Outlook bold, but kindly. Expression intelligent and interested. Never shy nor vicious. Correct type, including general balance and outline, attractiveness of headpiece, intelligent outlook and correct temperament are of primary importance. Movement is especially important, particularly as viewed from the side. A dog with smooth and free gait has to be reasonably sound and must be highly regarded. A minor fault must never take precedence over the above desired qualities. A dog must be very seriously penalized for the following faults, regardless of whatever desirable qualities the dog may present: oversized or undersized; button, rose or drop ears; overshot or undershot bite; fluffies, whitelies, mismarks or bluies.
Size, Proportion, Substance: Size - Height (from ground to highest point on withers) should be 10 to 12 inches. Weight is in proportion to size, not exceeding 30 pounds for dogs and 28 pounds for bitches. In show condition, the preferred medium- sized dog of correct bone and substance will weigh approximately 27 pounds, with bitches approximately 25 pounds. Obvious oversized specimens and diminutive toylike individuals must be very severely penalized. Proportions -Moderately long and low. The distance from the withers to the base of the tail should be approximately 40 percent greater than the distance from the withers to the ground. Substance -Should not be so low and heavy-boned as to appear coarse or overdone, nor so light-boned as to appear racy.
Head: The head should be foxy in shape and appearance. Expression - Intelligent and interested, but not sly. Skull - should be fairly wide and flat between the ears. Moderate amount of stop. Very slight rounding of cheek, not filled in below the eyes, as foreface should be nicely chiseled to give a somewhat tapered muzzle. Distance from occiput to center of stop to be greater than the distance from stop to nose tip, the proportion being five parts of total distance for the skull and three parts for the foreface. Muzzle should be neither dish-faced nor Roman-nosed. Eyes - Oval, medium in size, not round, nor protruding, nor deepset and piglike. Set somewhat obliquely. Variations of brown in harmony with coat color. Eye rims dark, preferably black. While dark eyes enhance the expression, true black eyes are most undesirable, as are yellow or bluish eyes. Ears - Erect, firm, and of medium size, tapering slightly to a rounded point. Ears are mobile, and react sensitively to sounds. A line drawn from the nose tip through the eyes to the ear tips, and across, should form an approximate equilateral triangle. Bat ears, small catlike ears, overly large weak ears, hooded ears, ears carried too high or too low, are undesirable. Button, rose or drop ears are very serious faults. Nose - Black and fully pigmented. Mouth - Scissors bite, the inner side of the upper incisors touching the outer side of the lower incisors. Level bite is acceptable. Overshot or undershot bite is a very serious fault. Lips - Black, tight with little or no fullness.
Neck, Topline, Body: Neck - Fairly long. Of sufficient length to provide over-all balance of the dog. Slightly arched, clean and blending well into the shoulders. A very short neck giving a stuffy appearance and a long, thin or ewe neck are faulty. Topline - Firm and level, neither riding up to nor falling away at the croup. A slight depression behind the shoulders caused by heavier neck coat meeting the shorter body coat is permissible. Body - Rib cage should be well sprung, slightly egg-shaped and moderately long. Deep chest, well let down between the forelegs. Exaggerated lowness interferes with the desired freedom of movement and should be penalized. Viewed from above, the body should taper slightly to end of loin. Loin short. Round or flat rib cage, lack of brisket, extreme length or cobbiness, are undesirable. Tail - Docked as short as possible without being indented. Occasionally a puppy is born with a natural dock, which if sufficiently short, is acceptable. A tail up to two inches in length is allowed, but if carried high tends to spoil the contour of the topline.
Forequarters: Legs - Short, forearms turned slightly inward, with the distance between wrists less than between the shoulder joints, so that the front does not appear absolutely straight. Ample bone carried right down into the feet. Pasterns firm and nearly straight when viewed from the side. Weak pasterns and knuckling over are serious faults. Shoulder blades long and well laid back along the rib cage. Upper arms nearly equal in length to shoulder blades. Elbows parallel to the body, not prominent, and well set back to allow a line perpendicular to the ground to be drawn from tip of the shoulder blade through to elbow. Feet - Oval, with the two center toes slightly in advance of the two outer ones. Turning neither in nor out. Pads strong and feet arched. Nails short. Dewclaws on both forelegs and hindlegs usually removed. Too round, long and narrow, or splayed feet are faulty.
Hindquarters: Ample bone, strong and flexible, moderately angulated at stifle and hock. Exaggerated angulation is as faulty as too little. Thighs should be well muscled. Hocks short, parallel, and when viewed from the side are perpendicular to the ground. Barrel hocks or cowhocks are most objectionable. Slipped or double-jointed hocks are very faulty. Feet - as in front.
Coat: Medium length; short, thick, weather- resistant undercoat with a coarser, longer outer coat. Over-all length varies, with slightly thicker and longer ruff around the neck, chest and on the shoulders. The body coat lies flat. Hair is slightly longer on back of forelegs and underparts and somewhat fuller and longer on rear of hindquarters. The coat is preferably straight, but some waviness is permitted. This breed has a shedding coat, and seasonal lack of undercoat should not be too severely penalized, providing the hair is glossy, healthy and well groomed. A wiry, tightly marcelled coat is very faulty, as is an overly short, smooth and thin coat. Very Serious Fault -Fluffies - a coat of extreme length with exaggerated feathering on ears, chest, legs and feet, underparts and hindquarters. Trimming such a coat does not make it any more acceptable. The Corgi should be shown in its natural condition, with no trimming permitted except to tidy the feet, and, if desired, remove the whiskers.
Color: The outer coat is to be of self colors in red, sable, fawn, black and tan with or without white markings. White is acceptable on legs, chest, neck (either in part or as a collar), muzzle, underparts and as a narrow blaze on head. Very Serious Faults - Whitelies - Body color white, with red or dark markings. Bluies - Colored portions of the coat have a distinct bluish or smoky cast. This coloring is associated with extremely light or blue eyes, liver or gray eye rims, nose and lip pigment. Mismarks - Self colors with any area of white on the back between withers and tail, on sides between elbows and back of hindquarters, or on ears. Black with white markings and no tan present.
Gait: Free and smooth. Forelegs should reach well forward without too much lift, in unison with the driving action of the hind legs. The correct shoulder assembly and well-fitted elbows allow a long, free stride in front. Viewed from the front, legs do not move in exact parallel planes, but incline slightly inward to compensate for shortness of leg and width of chest. Hind legs should drive well under the body and move on a line with the forelegs, with hocks turning neither in nor out. Feet must travel parallel to the line of motion with no tendency to swing out, cross over or interfere with each other. Short, choppy movement, rolling or high-stepping gait, close or overly wide coming or going, are incorrect. This is a herding dog, which must have the agility, freedom of movement, and endurance to do the work for which he was developed.
Temperament: Outlook bold, but kindly. Never shy or vicious. The judge shall dismiss from the ring any Pembroke Welsh Corgi that is excessively shy.
Approved June 13, 1972
Reformatted January 28, 1993
Meet the Breeders
Marian Your’s Tri-umph Pembroke Welsh Corgis blend true movement, trainability & type – breeding champions since 1984 in Texas.
Meet the Breeders
Veterinarians Marty Greer & Dan Griffiths share insights on breeding, DSFs, PWCs, dog sports, and the future of purebred dogs.
All About Judging
Guide to judging Pembroke Welsh Corgis: essential breed standards, movement, coat, and markings. Bold, loyal, and agile herders.
All About Judging
Read about the current judging concerns in the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed: size, eye shape and color, coat color, bone shape, and feet.
All About Judging
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small, sturdy, athletic, and energetic herding dog that originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Read more.
Discover the story of Mary Elizabeth Goodneighbor Goodneighbor, a unique Corgi character with a vibrant personality.
All About Judging
Let’s talk about type in the breed: Why is side gait important characteristic of breed type? It is important for the structure of the dog.
The absence of a tail on the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a distinct breed feature and an important part of its working heritage. It has been traditionally docked as short as possible; however, some puppies are born with a naturally short tail that is less than two inches in length. Regardless of whether a Corgi has a natural tail or is docked, the set on of the tail should be level with the back and not carried so high as to spoil the appearance of the dog's firma and level topline.
A Note About Color: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s outer coat is “self-colored,” with or without white markings that may appear as a blaze on the head and/or on the muzzle, neck, chest, underparts, and legs. Dogs with white between the withers and tail, and white dogs with colored markings, black dogs with white markings but no tan, and those with a bluish cast are unacceptable in the breed.
Coat Type
Double
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Short
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known for its energetic nature and active lifestyle. Providing a well-balanced and nutritious diet is essential for supporting the dog at every stage of life.
The Pembroke has different nutritional needs throughout its lifetime. Puppies require a diet that supports growth and development, while adult and senior dogs need food that's tailored to their health and maintenance needs. The average adult will likely require 1.5 to 2 cups of food per day.
This breed is known for its love of food, which can lead to overeating if not managed carefully. It's important, therefore, to be mindful of portion sizes. This can be the best way to prevent obesity, a common issue a Corgi. Also, feeding from the table is a no-no, because human meals can be high in fat and other harmful ingredients.
While treats are an excellent way to reward a Pembroke Welsh Corgi during training sessions, they need to be used moderately. It is recommended to go with low-calorie treats, or even smaller pieces of fruits or vegetables, as a reward.
One of the most remarkable aspects of training a Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the breed's extraordinary intelligence. These dogs are quick learners, with an innate ability to grasp commands and concepts swiftly. From basic obedience to advanced tricks, Pembrokes display a remarkable aptitude for understanding and executing tasks.
The breed is also known for its strong-willed and occasionally stubborn nature. This is where consistency plays a crucial role in training. Getting the anticipated result from a Corgi demands patience, since the dog's occasional stubbornness can be challenging at times. Harsh punishment or scolding is not the way to go. Instead, using positive reinforcement is the key to success.
Pembrokes are social dogs, but early socialization is vital. Exposing them to various people, animals, and environments from a young age will encourage them to become well-adjusted and confident as adults. Socialization can also prevent behavioral problems and it encourages the Corgi to become comfortable in different situations, whether at home or out in the world.
As a herding breed, this dog has a high energy level. Consequently, exercise is a vital component of any training regimen. Regular outings and exercises that provide mental stimulation are not just helpful,they're necessary. Interactive games, puzzle toys, and challenging tasks can provide the outlets that are needed to manage the breed's boundless energy.
Training a Pembroke Welsh Corgi is not just about teaching the dog; it's about forging a bond. Owners and their Corgis embark on a journey together, with each party learning from the other. Throughout the journey, the dog's intelligence, determination, and affection are showcased.
Grooming Expectations
Regular coat care is the foundation of grooming and should be done several times a week. The double coat sheds year-round, with heavier shedding occurring during seasonal changes, so brushing helps to remove the loose hairs, prevent matting, and stimulate healthy skin and coat growth. The frequency of baths depends on the dog's activity level and lifestyle. Bathing removes dirt, odors, and excess oils from the coat. The coat should be dried thoroughly to prevent skin issues from developing. Pembrokes typically have tufts of hair around their ears and paws that require occasional trimming to keep them neat and to prevent matting. Additionally, nail care is essential to prevent overgrown nails from causing discomfort and affecting both the dog's usefulness as a herding dog. Regularly checking and cleaning the upright ears can prevent infections. Additionally, dental care, such as brushing the teeth and providing dental chews, is crucial for the dog's oral health and to ward off gum disease and bad breath.
While the Corgi is known for its agility and herding instincts, these dogs can comfortably live in smaller spaces, provided they are given daily periods of exercise. Most are adaptable to sharing their homes with other animal companions, but introductions should always be properly supervised to ensure the safety and compatibility of all members of the household.
