Pembroke Welsh corgis were initially bred as livestock and family dogs in Wales. They are considered a true dwarf breed with a long frame and a low, sturdy build. Pembroke Welsh corgis have a double coat that helps make them weather-resistant, but it does mean they shed a lot. They are brave, affectionate, and agile dogs who love to have a purpose and be surrounded by family. Most Pembroke Welsh corgis have no tails.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Characteristics
Pembroke Welsh corgis were bred to work outside. But they also make excellent house dogs. They are one of the most popular herding dogs worldwide. Their markings can be red, sable, fawn, or black and tan. They may or may not have white markings.
How big Pembroke Welsh corgis get. These dogs stand at 10 to 12 inches tall at their shoulder and have a healthy weight range between 27 and 30 pounds.
Pembroke Welsh corgi weight. Male Pembroke Welsh corgis typically weigh more than their female counterparts. A healthy weight for males is around 30 pounds. A healthy weight for females is about 28 pounds.
Pembroke Welsh corgi personality. Corgis make great companions. The Pembroke Welsh corgi temperament is protective, motivated, and playful. They’re affectionate, loyal, and smart dogs. They’re strong, athletic, and not very needy. They work best for families that can properly train and bond with them.
Corgis have above-average intelligence. They are most easily trained with positive reinforcement methods. They’re people-oriented and want to please their humans.
Pembroke Welsh corgi lifespan. The life expectancy for a healthy, well–cared for Pembroke Welsh corgi is between 12 and 13 years.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi History
Pembroke Welsh corgis can be traced back to 1107 when Henry I of Britain invited weavers into his kingdom. They brought sturdy, short-legged herders for their cattle and sheep, now known as the Pembroke Welsh corgi.
Since the late 1800s, Cardigan Welsh corgis were separate from Pembroke Welsh corgis. The former came from Cardiganshire, and the latter was bred in Pembrokeshire.
The Pembroke Welsh corgis also have a royal history. Queen Elizabeth II was a big fan of Pembroke Welsh corgis. She got her first corgi in 1933 and still had some as companions when she passed away in 2022.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Care
Pembroke Welsh corgis have a soft, light undercoat and a coarse outer coat. They have shedding seasons, during which they'll need a daily combing session. Using a slicker brush can help remove shedding hair. Regular baths during shedding season can help loosen dead hair. They also need their nails trimmed and ears cleaned regularly.
Pembroke Welsh corgis are strong and athletic. Because of this, they need plenty of physical activity. They're happiest when you give them jobs to do as well as tasks that provide mental stimulation. Long walks and slow jogs are good for their short legs. They love agility exercises, herding, and tracking.
A good diet and exercise routine can keep your corgi happier and healthier for longer. Pembroke Welsh corgis are suitable for apartments but need daily walks and play sessions. Because of their short legs and long back, you may need to help them get onto and off of furniture to avoid them getting injured. Pet stairs can help with this.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Health Issues
Pembroke Welsh corgis are a generally healthy breed. If they come from responsible breeders, they'll be screened for health conditions like:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Eye disorders
- Cardiac issues
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Von Willebrand's disease
- Bleeding disorders
There are some conditions that Pembroke Welsh corgis are genetically predisposed to.
Heart disease. Patent ductus arteriosus and pulmonary hypertension are serious conditions that can affect Pembroke Welsh corgi puppies. Factors that contribute to the early development of pulmonary hypertension include:
- Pulmonary hyperperfusion
- Genetic predisposition
- Atmospheric pressure
Detecting the condition early will help your dog get proper treatment and keep the condition from getting worse.
Signs and symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Fatigue during exercise
- Weight loss
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness in their hind limbs
Bleeding disorders. Von Willebrand's disease is a blood clotting disorder. It's commonly found in corgis and ranges from mild to severe. Surgery may be required depending on the severity.
Back problems. Intervertebral disc disease is common in corgis and other dogs with short legs and long backs. This condition happens when the cushion between their vertebrae slips or ruptures. It adds pressure to the spinal cord, making them unable to jump, climb stairs, or move around at will. They may have a hunched back or cry out in pain. Your corgi may refuse to eat or go potty. Sudden paralysis can happen, which requires immediate emergency care.
Hip and elbow dysplasia. This is an inherited disease that causes your corgi's joints to develop improperly. It can cause arthritis later on. You may notice stiffness in your Pembroke Welsh corgis elbows or hips, making it harder for them to lay down and move around.
Degenerative myelopathy. Pembroke Welsh corgis are at risk for this neurological condition. It causes weakness and bad nerve function in their back legs. This can lead to paralysis and incontinence in your corgi. There's no cure for this condition, but rehabilitation, exercise, and dietary supplements can help reduce the symptoms.
Eye problems. There are a few eye conditions that your corgi can inherit or develop. They might become blind if their eye problems aren't treated quickly and appropriately. These conditions include:
- Cataracts, which mainly show up in older corgis
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Distichiasis, which causes extra hairs to grow on their eyelids
- Persistent pupillary membrane
Kidney disease. Glomerulonephropathy is inherited and slowly causes damage to your corgi’s kidneys. It can happen at an early age and will eventually cause their kidneys to fail. Annual urine testing can help detect excessive protein, which is a main symptom. Bladder and kidney stones are more likely to form in Pembroke Welsh corgis than other dogs, too. Signs include:
- Bloody urine
- Trouble urinating
- Straining/pain when urinating
Liver problems. Another common disorder in Pembroke Welsh corgis is portosystemic shunting. This condition restricts the liver's blood flow, which it needs to grow and function. A liver function test and a standard panel before anesthesia will ensure their liver is functioning correctly.
Epilepsy. Pembroke Welsh corgis are more prone to epilepsy, or seizures. Epileptic episodes typically start between six months and three years of age. If your corgi has seizures, they will need to take medication to help keep them under control. They’ll also need periodic blood testing to monitor side effects.
Lymphoma. This cancer is more common in Pembroke Welsh corgis than in other dog breeds. Lymphoma can occur anywhere in the body. It's treatable, and there's a high success rate for dogs who receive chemotherapy. Lymphoma can be diagnosed with a blood test. The signs and symptoms include:
- Swollen glands
- Weight loss
- Trouble breathing at home
Hernia. The type of hernia that affects Pembroke Welsh corgis is called an umbilical hernia. This is a hole or defect in the belly button area of your dog. It’s the most common hernia in dogs and is usually inherited. Pembroke Welsh corgis are at a higher risk, and it may appear in puppies.
Obesity. Corgis are prone to obesity. An overweight corgi can have many joint issues with their short legs and long back. Make sure your dog is getting high-quality dog food appropriate for their age.
You should also check their ears weekly for signs of infection. Their ears can become dirty and cause other issues.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh corgis can have a mind of their own. They're knowledgeable and very energetic. So when they're frustrated physically or mentally, they can act out. They're also a sensitive breed, so negative reinforcement will not work for them in training.
Corgis have many attractive characteristics, but they also have some tendencies you should consider before getting one. They are herding dogs in their truest form, so they may try to herd small children or other pets. Their headstrong nature may also make them bossy and overprotective if they’re not socialized during puppyhood. This is especially important to consider if you have children or other dogs.
Corgis were bred to move cattle and large herds of sheep. They’re able to think independently and can become unruly if not consistently trained. They can be loud and energetic if they don't get enough exercise and stimulation.
Pembroke Welsh corgis can be vocal and bark if they're frustrated. They can also become territorial towards cats and dogs. They learn quickly though, so giving them consistent and clear training will help them understand what's expected of them. Otherwise, they can be stubborn and willful.
Pembroke Welsh corgis are naturally active and quick. They're eager to please and can be kind to strangers if well socialized.
Whether you're looking to add a Pembroke Welsh corgi to your family of four with a backyard or a family of one in an apartment, they are adaptable and easy-to-train dogs. Just make sure you have enough time to mentally and physically stimulate them. They'll make a great addition to any family. If you're ready to find the right pup for you, search for responsible breeders or corgi-specific rescues in your area.
