Origin
United Kingdom
Lifespan
12–13 years
Weight
9–14 kg
Height
25–30 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Red · Sable · Fawn · Black and Tan · Tri-color
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
About This Breed
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a cattle herding dog breed that originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales. One of the most popular herding breeds, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is one of the world's most recognizable dogs, known for its short stature, fox-like face, and large rounded ears. Famous for being the preferred breed of Queen Elizabeth II, Corgis are bold, tenacious, and playful little dogs. Despite their small size, they are athletic herding dogs with high energy levels.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Origin
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Group | Herding |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 9–14 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–13 years |
| Height | 25–30 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Red · Sable · Fawn · Black and Tan · Tri-color |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Affectionate · Bold · Tenacious · Playful · Intelligent |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Can shed a lot. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi (also called the Pembroke or, simply, the Corgi for short) is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. The Pembroke was initially bred to herd cattle and sheep in the U.K. as part of the carpeting, textile, and tapestry industry. One famous fan of the breed was Queen Elizabeth II, who surrounded herself with Pembroke Welsh Corgis since childhood. She got her first Corgi, Dookie, in 1933. The Corgi is a short, sturdy, muscular dog breed with a medium stature. The typical Corgi weight is around 30 pounds, and the dogs stand 10–12 inches tall.
Care Guide
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart dog who enjoys human company. They’re loyal, spunky, independent, and highly adaptable—because of this, they can thrive in many different living spaces, from urban apartments to rural acreage. The Corgi’s long body and short, stubby legs can be misleading, as they are powerful and hardworking herding dogs. Although low to the ground, they remain agile in their daily tasks and need regular exercise to be happy. Corgi dogs have a short coat made of two layers: a coarse topcoat and a soft, thick, waterproof undercoat. This double coat means that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds a lot. Other than routine brushing to maintain coat health and decrease excessive shedding, the breed’s grooming needs are minimal. Corgi colors include red, sable, fawn, and black and tan.