PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI
APPEARANCE
Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a long body, big upright ears, a fox-like face, a wide level skull, a soft coat that’s water-resistant, and a short, at times non-existent, tail. Like most herding breeds, Pembrokes are active, intelligent and athletic dogs, despite their short legs and stocky body. The short legs may seem to be a disadvantage, but they can run and jump just as well as any other dog of comparable size. These dogs weigh in at 25-30 pounds, and the height of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is around 10-12 inches.
PERSONALITY
Active, intelligent, and quick to learn, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a dependable dog and is easy to train. This breed is well suited to the more inexperienced dog owner as well as experienced ones, and makes a good family pet and companion. It tends to be outgoing and active, and must be given proper socialization while still young to relax its over-protective nature. Given proper attention, this dog can be an endearing and enjoyable companion.
TRAINING
This breed is quite popular for its obedience, intelligence, and loyalty. These dogs are very alert and will bark to raise the alarm if anything seems to be amiss, making them effective watchdogs - be warned though, as some can bark excessively. These are herding dogs by nature, and this is still reflected in the way that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi will try and herd people and other animals, often by nipping at the heels, which is something that will need to be addressed. He is also attentive and eager to please, often excelling at obedience training.
EXERCISE
This smart and energetic breed should do well with a moderate physical, as well as mental, exercise routine. Daily herding is still an ideal form of exercise for this breed. However, when herding is not an option, a balance between training sessions, play activity, and moderate distance walks is recommended. He will enjoy playing games and joining in family activities.
SOCIALIZATION
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a loving and affectionate dog, and will get along well with gentle children and family pets. He is likely to chase off strange cats and dogs, as he has been trained to do historically. With strangers the Pembroke Welsh Corgi may be very suspicious, which adds to his watchdog abilities, but with guests he tends to be polite and dignified.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Access to a yard may not be necessary for this breed, as long as it is given enough exercise. It can adapt well to most climates, and though it can be made to live outdoors, the Pembroke Corgi will be happier sharing space with its people.
GROOMING
Corgis have a short undercoat as well as a longer thicker overcoat. These coats shed continuously all year round, with extensive seasonal shedding occurring at least twice each year. The coat of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi will need to be brushed on a daily basis during periods when he is shedding more heavily, and on a weekly basis at other times of the year. These dogs shed quite heavily on a seasonal basis, and will also shed more lightly for the rest of the year, so they are not best suited to allergy sufferers.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is around 12-14 years, and there are a number of health issues to look out for with this breed. This includes PRA, spinal problems, lens luxation, retinal problems, and HD. If not kept active or if overfed, can easily become obese and that coudl lead to osteoarthritis.. The parents of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.
HISTORY
Pembroke Welsh Corgi was developed in Wales for herding sheep, horses and cattle. They have proven themselves as excellent companion animals and are outstanding competitors in sheepdog trials and dog agility.
