- Legend
has it that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an "enchanted" dog, and
certainly this must be true! 'Tis said he was used by the fairies and elves of
Wales to pull fairy coaches, work fairy cattle, and serve as a steed for the
fairy warriors. Even today those people with keen eyes and understanding hearts
may see the marks of the "fairy saddle" in the coat over the shoulders
- The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an active dog who
is willing and able to carry out his owner's commands in the pasture, the
obedience ring, or the family home. The typical Pembroke is happy, obedient,
friendly, and confident and great fun to live with.
- Pembrokes
have been used by the Welsh as herding dogs, family companions, and guardians of
the farm. They continue today to be workers and companions for their owners. It
is believed that their ancestry dates back to at least the tenth century. It is
unknown whether they are descended from the Vallhunds (Swedish cattle dogs
possibly brought to Pembrokeshire by the Vikings) or from the ancestors of the
present-day Schipperkes and Pomeranians that were brought to Wales by Flemish
weavers. In the 1920's Corgis were recognized as pure-bred dogs in the United
Kingdom. In 1934 the Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis were recognized by the English
Kennel Club as separate breeds. American Kennel Club recognition of the two
distinct breeds also occurred in that same year
- Pembrokes are sensitive and intelligent dogs.
They are easily trained as long as training is done with gentle handling and
without severe physical correction. They are healthy and long-lived dogs and are
excellent companions for either rural or urban families.
- The Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds a
lot. They
should be brushed thoroughly at least twice a week.
- Though the Pembroke might be obedient, no dog
should ever be allowed to run free. The modern world is an extremely hazardous
place for inquisitive dogs. Although the Pembroke is not a toy
breed, his
compact size is a disadvantage if he is confronted by a larger dog. If you do
not have a fenced yard, your dog will certainly need several daily
walks. The
PWC is an energetic dog, and too much inactivity just might cause him to think
up unacceptable activities for himself!