If you’re looking for a quirky and adorable dog breed to be your companion, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi could be your perfect fit. With their short legs, pointy ears, and friendly demeanor, it’s no wonder that the breed has been growing in popularity over the years. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the history, characteristics, nutrition, training, and care of this charming breed, to help you decide if the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the right fit for you and your family.
History
It’s believed that Pembroke Welsh Corgis were brought to Wales by Flemish weavers in the 12th century. Initially, the breed was used as a cattle dog, helping farmers to herd their cattle. They were highly valued for their short yet sturdy build, which made them excellent at avoiding getting kicked by the cattle they were herding. With time, the breed became affectionately known as the “fairy dog” due to their magical and enchanting appearance.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that Pembroke Welsh Corgis became popular as pets. They quickly won the hearts of the British Royal Family, with Queen Elizabeth II having owned over 30 Corgis throughout her reign.
Today, the breed remains a beloved family pet, thanks to their endearing personality and cute looks.
Location of Origins
As their name suggests, Pembroke Welsh Corgis originate from Wales. They were originally bred in Pembrokeshire, a county that’s located in the southwest part of Wales. The area is known for its rugged and beautiful coastline, making it an ideal place to breed a dog that could keep up with the rough terrain.
Characteristics
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small dogs, reaching a height of between 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder and weighing anywhere from 26 to 38 pounds. Their most distinctive physical feature is their short, stumpy legs, which gives them a unique and quirky appearance. They also have a long, thick coat which comes in shades of red, sable, and fawn with white markings on their chest, legs, and face.
Beyond their appearance, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them excellent family pets. They’re intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they can be wary of strangers and dogs they don’t know, making early socialization an essential part of their training.
Corgis also have a high energy level, and they are often described as “big dogs in small bodies.” This means that they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Ensure they get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, which can be in the form of a brisk walk or playing fetch in the backyard.
Choosing the Best Foods
Feeding your Pembroke Welsh Corgi with balanced, healthy, and nutritious food is crucial for maintaining their overall health and happiness. You should aim to serve them food that is free of artificial preservatives and additives, and that contains high-quality ingredients.
Since Corgis are small dogs, it’s vital that you don’t overfeed them, as this can lead to obesity, which can put them at risk for other health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. One way to ensure your dog eats the right amount of food is by consulting with your vet to come up with a feeding plan specific to your dog’s breed, age, and activity level.
When choosing commercial dog food, avoid those with high levels of carbohydrates and low-quality fillers. Look for high-quality commercial food brands that offer a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and grains, and that have Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats to maintain healthy fur and skin. If you prefer to feed your dog home-cooked meals, ensure you know which human foods are safe for dogs, and seek advice from a veterinarian or animal nutritionist.
Training
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent dogs, which means they’re relatively easy to train. However, like any dog breed, they require early and consistent socialization and training from a young age. Begin training your Corgi as early as possible, and use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
When training your Corgi, ensure that you come up with a routine that works for both you and your dog, and stick to it. Consistency is key when it comes to successfully training your dog. Make sure you’re clear with your expectations and commands, and avoid punishing your dog for bad behavior. Instead, reward good behavior, and use positive reinforcement to discourage bad behavior.
If you’re having difficulty training your Corgi, consider enrolling them in obedience classes. This can be a great way to help your dog learn good socialization skills and basic commands. At the same time, it’s an excellent opportunity for you to bond with them.
Taking Care of Your Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Caring for your Pembroke Welsh Corgi is essential to keeping them happy and healthy. The first step to caring for your Corgi is ensuring they receive regular veterinary care. Take them for regular check-ups at least once a year and have them vaccinated and de-wormed regularly. You should also pay attention to their dental health, as Corgis are prone to tartar buildup and gum disease.
Corgis have a thick coat that requires regular grooming. Brushing their fur weekly can help to remove loose hair and prevent mats from forming. Plan to bathe your Corgi every six to eight weeks to keep their coat clean and free of dirt and debris.
Finally, make sure your Corgi gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. These dogs are incredibly active and intelligent, which means they need plenty of physical and mental exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Provide them with plenty of opportunities to play and explore, and consider creating an agility course for them to practice their skills.
FAQs
Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good family dogs?
Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis make excellent family dogs. They’re affectionate, loyal, and great with children.
Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis easy to train?
Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent dogs, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they require early and consistent socialization and training from a young age.
Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed a lot?
Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed a lot. They have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it clean and healthy.
How much exercise do Pembroke Welsh Corgis need?
Pembroke Welsh Corgis require at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, which can be in the form of a brisk walk or playing fetch in the backyard.
What health problems are Pembroke Welsh Corgis susceptible to?
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are prone to a variety of health problems, including hip dysplasia, cataracts, and degenerative myelopathy.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a small yet sturdy dog that is full of personality and charm, then the Pembroke Welsh Corgi might be the perfect breed for you. These dogs are affectionate, loyal, and intelligent, making them excellent family pets. However, before getting a Corgi, it’s crucial to research the breed, and ensure you’re prepared to care for them properly. By providing your Corgi with proper nutrition, exercise, and training, you can have a happy and healthy companion that will bring you years of joy.
