GROUP 5 - WORKING DOGS

History

Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) were first bred in Pembrokeshire in Southern Wales as cattle dogs, or ‘homestead’ dogs. The breed is a combination of the local herding dogs, much like the black and tan Lancashire Heelers, and the Spitz breeds, like Vallhunds, brought over by the Vikings who landed around the Pembrokeshire coast.

The Cardigan Corgi was also originally bred to work closely with the farmers of Wales as a herder of cattle, guard dog and companion. These qualities mean that, even today, a typical Corgi likes to organise its family and is resilient and innovative.

Appearance

The Welsh Corgi (Pembroke and Cardigan) is a low-set dog with a body somewhat long in proportion to its short legs. It is sturdy, but athletic and active. The breed’s head has a foxy quality and appearance, with large upright ears and a bushy tail that should be carried high when the dog is excited or moving.

The Pembroke has a medium-length coat with a dense undercoat and is bred in a variety of colours, including all shades of red (fawn to bright bronze) with black shading over the red (sable), and black and tan.

Temperament

The Pembroke Corgi is both affectionate and highly intelligent. It is not a one person dog, but will relate to each member of the family differently, happily playing rough with teenagers, but knowing instinctively to be gentle around the very young or very elderly.

Health

The Welsh Corgi is a robust, generally healthy dog with an average life expectancy of 12-16  years, and often it is still very healthy and playful up until the end. There are no very common health issues, but the breed can have Hip Dysplasia and Von Willebrand Disease, a blood clotting disorder. Knowledgeable breeders have tests for these and screen breeding stock so that these conditions do not become more common.

Maintenance

The Pembroke Corgi’s double coat needs to be brushed and combed through once a week to keep it looking its best. Dirt falls off a clean healthy coat, so the breed doesn’t need frequent bathing. It will moult twice a year.

Suitability

The Corgi makes a great family pet and loves to join in all the family activities. Because it is highly intelligent and a herding dog, the breed is at its best when it is well trained. Its best feature is its huge personality – the breed is full of fun and excels as a watchdog, as it has a keen ear and a remarkable memory.

Words: Robin Robertson and Jean Georgiou on behalf of the Welsh Corgi Club of NSW

Image supplied by Robin Robertson

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) you may have think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.