The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is originally from Wales and was primarily bred to serve as a cattle herding dog. This breed is one of the smallest of the herding
dog breeds, but makes up for size in his determination and loyalty. This popular breed has been ranked #11 in overall intelligence and was recently identified as
the 20th most popular breed according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
These corgis will display firm, erect ears that are well
proportioned to the size and shape of the head. The head is
"foxy" in shape and appearance. There is a
diversity in markings and coloring; the coat may be red, sable, fawn, black and tan with or without white markings. Corgis have a "fairy
saddle," marked by somewhat lighter marking on either side
of the withers. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds mostly in the spring and fall and may shed annually.
Some Pembroke Welsh Corgis are born with their tail naturally short or
even missing. The tradition of docking the tail goes back to
their use as herding dogs, as this was necessary for both
their safety as well as their classification as a working
animal and not a family pet. Currently, the AKC Standard states
that Corgi tails should be docked no longer than 2 inches (5 cm).
With a lifespan of 12-15 years, these loving and
affectionate dogs are a family favorite. Their intelligence
and desire to please makes them highly trainable with a
great deal of loyalty to their owners. Their natural herding
instinct gives them a great amount of energy, so they must
have the time and space to run...and are best in a fenced
area. They love to go after anything that moves!
Pembroke Welsh Corgis can compete in dog agility trials, obedience, showmanship, flyball, tracking, and herding events. Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive herding tests.
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