Welsh Corgi Pembroke

Appearance: The Cardigan and Pembroke are visibly related 

Before we delve into the Welsh Corgi Pembroke in detail, let’s compare it with its close relative, the Welsh Corgi Cardigan. These two breeds not only share many similarities, but they were even considered to be a single breed for many years. 

To the untrained eye, it can be hard to tell the two apart at first glance: both are short-legged, with large erect ears and a shoulder height of max. 30cm. They shouldn’t weigh more than 12kg. 

Their backs are notably long in proportion to the rest of their bodies, somewhat reminiscent of a Dachshund. Unlike “Cardigans”, some Welsh Corgi Pembrokes have a naturally shortened rod. 

There are also some with longer fur. Their coats may be red, sable, fawn or black with tan markings, with white markings on the head, chest and paws permitted. Overall, the Welsh Corgi Pembroke is considered the more lively of the two breeds. 

Character: Charming Stubbornness

The Welsh Corgi Pembroke is confident, smart and knows what it wants. Obedience isn’t necessarily its strongest suit – but it delights in pleasing its humans if they appreciate its efforts. 

Despite its short legs, a Pembroke loves action and is always up for shared adventures. 

This agile former working dog requires careful and consistent training so that its herding instincts (barking, nipping at heels, independence and huge self-confidence) don’t cause trouble in everyday life. 

In short: anyone wanting to live with a Corgi should find its brave, sometimes even cheeky behaviour endearing and be able to guide it in the right direction. 

Training: Are Corgis difficult to train?

As a former herder and professional “heel-nipper”, the Welsh Corgi Pembroke presents some training challenges. However, any dog lover can overcome these by critically evaluating their own consistent behaviour. 

The breed is very receptive to praise, or in other words: if you don’t praise and appreciate your Corgi’s behaviour, it won’t be motivated to even attempt the desired behaviour. Recognition strengthens the bond and thus the “will-to-please” of this independent breed. 

Visits to puppy playgroups and dog schools are highly recommended, where your Corgi can learn to have proper interactions with dogs of all breeds and sizes. A social deficit can quickly lead to a groundlessly confrontational Welsh Corgi Pembroke and many unpleasant situations. 

Care: Straightforward but Hairy

The Welsh Corgi Pembroke has short fur that you should ideally brush at least once a week. More frequent brushing will reduce the amount of shedding in the house. However, whether you brush often or not, the Pembroke tends to shed. Be sure to stock up on lint rollers before it moves in. 

If your Welsh Corgi Pembroke gets dirty, wait until the mud has dried and then brush it out. Baths should be rare and only in emergencies – keep a mild dog shampoo on hand for these occasions. 

Regularly check your little companion’s claws and trim them as needed with a claw trimmer. If unsure, you can ask a vet to demonstrate how to perform this dog pedicure. Walking on as many different surfaces as possible will help keep claws in shape even for older dogs. 

Start tooth brushing with your puppy using a specially designed dog toothpaste and toothbrush for pets. This helps prevent tartar. Alternatively, dental care snacks for dogs or dried chews can help clean teeth naturally. 

Keeping a Pembroke: Is it right for me?

Whether on a farm, in a royal palace or a city flat, this breed is very adaptable and can feel at home anywhere. However, a Corgi needs plenty of exercise and activities. A Pembroke also enjoys a fenced garden where it can happily keep watch. 

Be cautious with stairs

If you live in a place accessible only by stairs, carry your little companion up and down. Stair climbing can be harmful to its long back over time. Don’t forget to take care of your own back too. 

This breed is suitable for eager beginners willing to do their homework. A Welsh Corgi Pembroke can be a wonderful companion for children, thriving in a lively family environment. Ensure the children treat the Corgi respectfully and not as a toy. 

If you want to introduce a Pembroke to cats, it’s best if the cat was already known to it as a puppy – or by its previous owners. 

The Welsh Corgi Pembroke is not a couch potato

Despite its cosy appearance, the Welsh Corgi Pembroke is not a couch potato. It loves walks in all weather and also requires mental stimulation, which takes time. Cleanliness fanatics won’t enjoy the dog hairs that inevitably become part of everyday life with a Corgi.

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Sport and Activity: Versatile occupation desired 

The short legs can be deceiving: the Welsh Corgi Pembroke is not a lazy dog. As a former herder, it needs a lot of activities and is well-suited for dog sports. Suitable choices include agility or dog dancing. Your adult Pembroke can be a great partner for your walking or short jogging sessions. 

Only engage in such activities with your fully grown dog, always considering what’s best for it. You both should enjoy your shared activities. 

Train your pet’s mind as well. Good options include clicker training or intelligence toys for dog

Feeding: Maintaining a slim figure 

These little energy bundles love extensive feeding. A healthy and well-planned diet is particularly important for this breed. Feed high-quality dog food that keeps your Pembroke full for a long time. Pay special attention to a high protein content – such as meat. 

Avoiding obesity

If you notice your Corgi gaining weight, consistently weigh reduced food portions and ideally cut out treats altogether. 

You can reward your Pembroke with short play sessions or affection. Alternatively, individual dry food kibbles can make a relatively low-calorie reward, especially if they are part of the daily weighed ration. 

Health of the Welsh Corgi Pembroke

Apart from a tendency toward obesity, the Welsh Corgi Pembroke is a very robust breed rarely affected by hereditary diseases. 

Susceptibility to Hip Dysplasia (HD) 

Some lines have a higher risk of hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy, a neurological disease leading to progressive paralysis. 

The hereditary disposition for these conditions can be min. if you choose a breeder who focuses on health. 

How old does a Corgi get? 

If you maintain your pet’s slim figure and ensure regular exercise, your Welsh Corgi Pembroke can live up to an average age of 12 to 15 years. 

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History: From Wales to the whole world

Welsh Corgis have been beloved in their homeland of Wales for centuries. Their ancestors are believed by some experts to have been herding dogs brought over by the Vikings. 

Known since the Middle Ages 

Similar dogs to Welsh Corgis have been used as cattle drivers since the Middle Ages. Size is not an issue: these energetic dogs can get large animals like cows moving by nipping at their ankles. 

Welsh Corgis were first featured in a dog show in 1892. The British Kennel Club recognised the Welsh Corgi as a single breed in 1925. It wasn’t until 1934 that they were officially divided into Welsh Corgi Cardigan and Welsh Corgi Pembroke. 

What is the difference between Cardigan and Pembroke?

The name “Welsh Corgi” translates to “Welsh dwarf dog”. “Cardigan” and “Pembroke” refer to the regions in Wales where each breed originated. 

Welsh Corgis now have a small but devoted following worldwide, appreciating the breed as family and companion dogs. One of the most famous fans of Pembrokes is none other than Queen Elizabeth II. 

Magical: Of fairies and queens 

A Welsh legend suggests that the markings on the fur of some Welsh Corgi Pembrokes indicate their tireless service in the magical fairy realm. Here, these loyal companions serve as mounts for fairies and elves. 

The enchanted saddle leaves imprints on the coats of these “riding dogs”. Some of these magical animals are said to venture into the fairy realm at night to play with the magical folk. 

Corgi-fan: Queen Elizabeth II 

Whether magic is involved or not: Welsh Corgi Pembrokes undoubtedly cast a magical spell over Queen Elizabeth II. After receiving her first Corgi for her 18th birthday, more than 30 Pembrokes have brightened royal life with their charming natures. 

Despite the fame of the royal pets, the breed is considered endangered. Even in their native Britain, fewer than 300 Welsh Corgi Pembrokes are born each year. 

Breeding and Purchasing: Your route to your dream Pembroke…

…can require patience. The rarity of the breed means you may need to travel far to the nearest breeder and endure waiting times for a puppy.

Don’t be discouraged though: a competent breeder is key to a healthy and happy dog’s life. They ensure the pups are well socialised and pay attention to character, type and health.

Visit the breeder before taking your new family member home to discuss the breed in detail and to meet the puppies and their parents.

Everyone should give a healthy and well-balanced impression. Your new furry companion will come home at eight weeks old, already wormed and chipped, with pedigree papers and a vaccination certificate.

If you have trouble finding suitable breeders or wish to rehome an adult Welsh Corgi Pembroke, British Herding Dog Clubs may help you find your dream dog.