There aren’t many dogs that are instantly recognisable, such as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, known otherwise as the ‘Corgi’. The Corgi is one of the most loved breeds in the world with big ears and stumpy legs making it an adored companion. The Corgi is known for its loyalty, intelligence and feisty independence, and has an interesting history. In this article, we’ll look into the origins of the Corgi, its unique traits and its lasting appeal.

 

 

Origins and Meaning of "Corgi"

The name Corgi comes from the Welsh words cor (meaning ‘dwarf’) and gi (a variant of ci meaning ‘dog’ in Welsh), so Corgi literally translates to ‘dwarf dog’. Even though the breed is small, they are sturdy and incredibly agile. Their swiftness could be a genetic inheritance from, their working-dog ancestors as they were originally bred as herding dogs.

The Corgi is almost 1,000 years old, descended from a small, spitz-type of herding dog that accompanied Flemish weavers to Wales in Britain in the 10th century. The dogs interbred with local Welsh herding types and, by the 12th century, Corgis had developed as a distinct type. But Corgis and their close relatives – the Cardigan Welsh Corgis – diverged in the 17th century, due to what the kennel clubs in Britain and America considered minor differences in conformation and temperament. Corgis were split into separate breeds in the 1930s.

 

Physical Features and Breed Standards

Corgis have a stocky, low-to-the-ground frame with large, pointed ears and, depending on the variety, either a long, docked tail (Cardigan) or a naturally shorter, stubby tail (Pembroke). This tail docked or not, Corgis have an iconic double-layer coat, with a soft inner layer for insulation and a coarser outer layer to protect from the elements to suit their Welsh climate.

Coat colours range from red, sable, fawn and black and tan, often with white markings. Corgis stand about 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder and usually weigh between 24 and 30 pounds, considering their square build and teetering legs. They are fully proportioned and surprisingly strong and athletic for their size, an obvious genetic inheritance from their working-dog ancestors.

 

Temperament and Personality

Corgis are considered to be naturally loyal and playful in temperament which has gained their global popularity. They also have an inherent desire to work, and their high adaptability makes them fit for any family. They can be a city dog or a country pup!

The breed is excellent in obedience and are very trainable in agility and other herding trials. If you are looking to have a Corgi of your own, bear in mind that they can be stubborn at times due to their independent nature. This trait might put a new dog owner off this breed. Having said that, with the right training, mental stimulation and daily exercise, Corgis can be a wonderful family pet. If left to their own devices without enough activity, they might become bored and form their own type of “entertainment”.

 

The Royal Connection

Without a doubt, the most famous Corgi fans in history are the British Royal Family, and most notably Queen Elizabeth II, who received her first Corgi, Dookie, in 1933 and, to date, has owned more than 30 Corgis in her lifetime. With the Queen as their patron, the breed has become strongly associated with the British monarchy, and the royal connection has elevated the breed’s status, not to mention its appeal and popularity, and made it one of the most recognisable dog breeds in the world.

 

In this 1930s photo, the longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth, is pictured with one of her first, beloved Welsh Corgis, Dookie. In the photo's original caption, Dookie was described as "a born sentimentalist."

 

Health and Lifespan

Corgis are generally healthy dogs and can live between 12 and 15 years. But their short legs and long body make them susceptible to hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease and progressive retinal atrophy, and good health is dependent on regular vet check-ups, careful breeding and sensible diet.

 

Caring for a Corgi

In order to have a healthy and happy Corgi, you need to give them some form of exercise every day. This might be through a walk, a home assault course or played with. Their little legs are capable of a lot! Not to mention the importance of mental stimulation on a regular basis to keep them entertained and content. It is important to note that Corgis will shed their fur year-round and heavily shed at that. This can also increase during the spring and autumn. Brushing every week or grooming helps keep coats looking their best and helps to regulate the dog hair around the house.

 

 

Corgis do sometimes herd, and may have a tendency to nip heels, especially when playing. Luckily, Corgis are very food-motivated, meaning this negative behaviour can be trained out of them. They are easy to train but to avoid obesity, careful portion control is required.

Corgi puppies have high levels of energy but are intelligent as well. They are simply irresistible with their lovable personalities, adorable short legs and huge ears. But to keep a Corgi puppy happy and healthy as it grows, there needs to be mental and physical stimulation. Training a Corgi puppy can be a very rewarding experience, but it is also challenging at times because pups are quick learners but can also lean stubborn. Getting a puppy used to other dogs and people from a young age will help them develop into a confident adult. Corgis are much more than just a tiny-legged, cute, little creature, but a devoted and loving pet that will bring years of happiness to its family.  

 

 

Corgi Quiz: Test Your Knowledge! 🐾

How well did you pay attention? Answer these questions about the lovable Corgi in the comments below, and share your favorite thing about the breed!

1. What are the two main varieties of Corgis?

• A) Pembroke and Welsh
• B) Cardigan and Welsh
• C) Pembroke and Cardigan
• D) Welsh and English

2. What is unique about the Pembroke Corgi’s tail?

• A) Naturally long and flowing
• B) Naturally short or docked
• C) Curled and fluffy
• D) Always docked at birth

3. What feature helps Corgis stay warm in cold Welsh weather?

• A) Double-layer coat
• B) Thick undercoat only
• C) Extra layer of fat
• D) Naturally high body temperature

4. Who famously popularized Corgis by owning more than 30 of them?

• A) Queen Elizabeth II
• B) Winston Churchill
• C) Prince Charles
• D) Princess Diana

5. Corgis are prone to which health issue due to their short legs and long body?

• A) Hip dysplasia
• B) Allergies
• C) Skin issues
• D) Heart problems

Enjoy testing your Corgi knowledge and learning more about this iconic breed! 🐶

 

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