Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Breed Type: Herding
Coat: Double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Energetic, friendly, affectionate, intelligent
Life expectancy: 12-13 years
Color & patterns: Red
Hero image
Pembroke Welsh Corgi - red and white
Pembroke Welsh Corgi - red and white
Pembroke Welsh Corgi - red and white
A dog with stubby legs, a stocky build, and a goofy grin might not seem like the ideal running partner or watchdog, but the Pembroke Welsh Corgi loves defying expectations. The breed, developed in Pembrokeshire, Wales, England, was used as a herding dog. Breeds like the Keeshond, Pomeranian, Finnish Spitz, and Norwegian Elkhound were among their earliest ancestors and served as the foundation for the short-legged herding breed. Given their adorable appearance and connection to the Queen, the popularity of these pups has been steady.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi characteristics

Learn about about Pembroke Welsh Corgi basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Pembroke Welsh Corgi facts.

Average height

10-12 inches (25.4-30.5cm)

Average weight

28-30 pounds (12.7-13.6 kg)

Average lifespan

12-13 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionEager to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
When do Pembroke Welsh Corgis stop growing?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis stop growing in height around 12 months of age, but they might continue to fill out and gain muscle until they are about 18 to 24 months old.

How long do Pembroke Welsh Corgis live?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis live 12 to 13 years on average. With proper care, a healthy diet, and regular exercise, many Corgis can live on the higher end of that range.

Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed. They have a double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a coarser outer coat, which contributes to their shedding. Corgis tend to shed more during seasonal changes, particularly in spring and fall, when they “blow” their coats. During this time, you might notice increased shedding as they lose their winter or summer coats.

Regular brushing at least once a week can help manage shedding and reduce the amount of hair in your home. More frequent brushing is recommended during heavy shedding periods to help remove loose fur.

What colors are Pembroke Welsh Corgis?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis come in several recognized coat colors, including red, sable, fawn, and black and tan with or without white markings.

What size is a full-grown Pembroke Welsh Corgi?

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small to medium-sized dog. Adult Pembroke Welsh Corgis are about 10 to 12 inches tall at the shoulder. Males weigh up to 30 pounds, and females weigh up to 28 pounds.

Why are Pembroke Corgis tails docked?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have traditionally had their tails docked – a practice in which a portion of a dog’s tail is removed –  because doing so was believed to help prevent injury in working dogs, as a long tail could get stepped on or caught by the livestock they were herding. Over time, tail docking became part of the breed’s appearance. In the past, dogs in the United Kingdom were often taxed based on whether they had tails. Dogs with docked tails were considered working dogs and exempt from this tax.

Tail docking is an unnecessary and outdated practice that is now banned or restricted in many countries due to concerns over animal welfare. Even where it’s not restricted, tail docking is otherwise widely discouraged as there is no medical reason for this procedure. Many Pembroke Corgis are now left with their natural tails.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi temperament

Learn about about the Pembroke Welsh Corgi temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good with cats?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis can be good with cats, but their compatibility often depends on individual temperament and early socialization. Corgis have strong herding instincts, which might lead them to chase smaller animals, including cats. Corgis who are exposed to cats as puppies and taught to interact positively with them are more likely to get along well as adults.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good with other dogs?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are good with other dogs, especially if they are properly socialized from a young age. Exposing Corgis to various dogs during their puppyhood can help them develop good social skills. Early interactions can lead to a more confident and well-adjusted adult dog. Although they typically get along with other dogs, their herding instincts might cause them to chase or try to herd smaller dogs. It’s important to monitor their interactions and redirect their behavior if necessary.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis super active?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are active and energetic dogs who need regular exercise to keep them healthy and happy. They enjoy activities such as walking, running, playing fetch, and participating in dog sports. Ideally, Corgis need at least 30 to 60 minutes of exercise each day, along with playtime. As herding dogs, they have a natural instinct to chase and herd, so they might enjoy games that allow them to engage in these behaviors.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good family dogs?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are good family dogs. Corgis are friendly, affectionate, and social dogs. They tend to get along well with children and other pets, making them a great addition to family life. Their playful nature means they enjoy engaging in activities with family members. They love to play fetch, go for walks, and participate in games, making them great companions for active families.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis easy to train?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are relatively easy to train. They are smart dogs who can learn commands and tricks quickly. They often excel in obedience training and can understand new tasks after just a few repetitions. Their eagerness to please their pet parents makes them motivated learners. They respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and playtime. However, keep in mind that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed.

Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis bark much?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis bark more than some other breeds. As herding dogs, Corgis have a natural instinct to alert their people to anything unusual. They are playful and energetic dogs who might bark when they’re excited or during playtime. If they don’t receive enough mental and physical stimulation, they may bark out of boredom or frustration.

While barking is a normal behavior for Corgis, it’s important to train them to bark appropriately and not excessively. Early training and socialization can help manage their barking habits and ensure they understand when it’s appropriate to bark. Teaching commands such as “quiet” can also be effective in reducing unnecessary barking.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis smart?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are smart dogs. They are known for their ability to think on their feet and solve problems, a trait that comes from their herding background. Corgis can learn commands and tricks quickly, often understanding new tasks after just a few repetitions. They can adapt well to different environments and situations, which showcases their cognitive abilities.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis friendly?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are friendly dogs. They are social dogs who enjoy the company of people and other pets. Corgis often greet new people and animals with enthusiasm, making them friendly companions. Their playful and energetic nature makes them fun to be around. They tend to bond closely with their families and enjoy spending time with their pet parents.

Can Pembroke Welsh Corgis be left alone?

Yes, Pembroke Welsh Corgis can be left alone for short periods, but they do best when they have regular companionship and social interaction. Corgis can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. This can lead to behaviors like barking, destructive chewing, or attempts to escape. 

Ideally, Corgis should not be left alone for more than four to six hours at a time. If you need to be away longer, consider having a friend, family member, or pet sitter check in on them. Providing mental stimulation and physical exercise before leaving them alone can help reduce anxiety and boredom. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or even a new chew toy can keep them occupied.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi history

Learn about where this Pembroke Welsh Corgi came from!

Where are Pembroke Welsh Corgis from?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are from Pembrokeshire, Wales. They were initially bred as herding dogs, specifically for cattle, and have a history dating back to at least the 10th century. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are famous for being one of Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite dog breeds.

What were Pembroke Welsh Corgis bred for?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis were bred for herding cattle, sheep, and other livestock. Despite their small size, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are quick and nimble. They nip at the heels of livestock to keep them moving. Their short stature also helps them avoid getting kicked by larger animals. Their herding instinct is still evident in the breed today.

What is the difference between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a Cardigan Welsh Corgi?

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Cardigan Welsh Corgi are two distinct breeds, though they share a similar appearance and herding background. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi came from Pembrokeshire, Wales, and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi comes from Cardiganshire, Wales. The Cardigan is the older of the two breeds.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically have a short or docked tail and tend to be slightly smaller and lighter, with a more streamlined appearance. Cardigan Welsh Corgis have a long tail that is usually left natural and is a bit larger and more robust with a heavier bone structure. Pembroke Corgis have smaller, more pointed ears, while Cardigan Corgis have larger, rounder ears.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Learn about about the Pembroke Welsh Corgi health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis healthy?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here are some other common health concerns associated with the breed:

  • Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket. It can lead to arthritis and discomfort.

  • Degenerative myelopathy: This is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that can lead to weakness and loss of coordination in the hind limbs.

  • Obesity: Corgis are prone to weight gain, which can exacerbate other health issues. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is essential.

  • Eye problems: Some Corgis may be susceptible to eye conditions, such as cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can affect their vision.

  • Back problems: Due to their long backs, Corgis are at risk for intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), where the discs in the spine degenerate and can cause pain or mobility issues.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis hypoallergenic?

No, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are not hypoallergenic. They have a double coat that sheds quite a bit, particularly during seasonal changes in the spring and fall. Regular brushing and bathing to reduce loose fur and dander can help minimize shedding but won’t eliminate allergens entirely.

Are Pembroke Corgis high maintenance?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are considered moderately high maintenance. Corgis need lots of exercise to remain physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and other activities are essential to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues. Corgis also benefit from consistent training and early socialization. 

Corgis are social dogs who thrive on interaction with their families. They might develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so they require regular companionship and engagement. Their double coat needs brushing at least once a week and more often during heavy shedding periods.

Find Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies near you

Adopting a Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Learn about acquiring a Pembroke Welsh Corgi - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.