Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a very old breed which has been used by the Welsh as a herding dog, guardian of the home and farm, and companion. Experts debate the origins of the breed; some say it is descended from the Swedish Vallhund, while others say the Schipperke is an ancestor.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog breed stands between 10 and 12 inches tall and should weigh no more than 28 to 30 pounds. Her head is foxlike in shape, with oval brown eyes and upright ears. Her body is lowslung and sturdy without being heavy or coarse. Her tail either is a natural bobtail or is docked short. Her coat is of medium length with a thick undercoat. Acceptable colors include red, sable, fawn, and black and tan, all with or without white markings. Pembroke Welsh Corgis do shed, and twice a year they shed a lot. Although a twice weekly brushing will suffice for most of the year, during shedding seasons, a daily brushing will be needed.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an active dog breed. A Pembroke Welsh Corgi can go for a long, brisk walk and then play ball with you, or can train on the agility course. This breed also enjoys canine sports, including flyball, herding, and tracking. The Pembroke is an energetic dog, and too much inactivity just might cause him to think up unacceptable activities for himself! The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is by nature a guardian breed and needs early socialization. These dogs should meet a variety of people during puppyhood as well as encounter many different sights and sounds.
Early training is also recommended. The time you spend in training, especially during the first year of your dog’s life, will be repaid many times over by giving you a well-behaved companion. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed needs an owner who is willing to socialize and train the dog, and then is eager to do things with her. This breed is usually good with children but sometimes tries to treat the kids (and other pets) like sheep. Health concerns include eye defects, hip dysplasia, disc problems, and bladder stones.