Pembroke Welsh Corgi Dog breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts

Breed guide overview

About Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs

Temperament

Exercise

Grooming

Training

Diet

Health

Pembroke Welsh Corgis: What Are They?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are an adorable and intelligent breed that originated in Wales, United Kingdom, where they were initially bred as herding dogs. Their distinctive appearance, featuring short legs, long bodies, and expressive faces, has made them one of the most recognisable and beloved dog breeds.

Despite their small stature, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are sturdy and energetic, thriving on activity and interaction with their families. This breed gained worldwide fame as a favourite of Queen Elizabeth II, who owned several Corgis throughout her reign, further solidifying their reputation as royal companions.

Weight, height & life expectancy

Male Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically stand between 25-30 cm tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, ranging from 24-28 cm. They have a compact yet muscular build, with an average weight of 11-14 kg. Known for their spirited and affectionate nature, Pembroke Welsh Corgis often live 12 to 15 years, offering years of loyalty and companionship.

With their unique look, lively personality, and rich history, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a breed that combines charm, intelligence, and versatility, making them an ideal choice for families, individuals, or even royalty.

What is the temperament of Pembroke Welsh Corgis like?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for their friendly, outgoing, and affectionate personalities, making them excellent family pets. They are highly intelligent and alert, traits that not only make them responsive to training but also contribute to their charm as loyal and loving companions.

Corgis thrive on human companionship and enjoy being involved in family activities. They are generally good with children and, when properly socialised from a young age, can get along well with other pets. Their herding background may lead them to exhibit herding behaviours, such as nipping at heels, especially with children or other animals. This instinct can be managed with early training and consistent socialisation.

Despite their small size, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are active and spirited dogs who love mental and physical challenges. They excel in obedience, agility, and other activities that keep their minds engaged. Their playful and eager-to-please nature makes them a joy to train and a wonderful addition to an active household.

With their combination of intelligence, loyalty, and a touch of herding instinct, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are delightful companions for families or individuals who can provide the love and attention they crave.

Our Pembroke Welsh Corgi Community

Corgi sat amongst some wild garlic leaves

"Lilo is an 8 year old corgi with a passion for playing fetch and eating apples. She will always follows me when I have a tennis ball with me. She will occasionally want a cuddle, but normally shows her affection by climbing on you and throwing her toys at you."

Lilo's owner, Isabella from London

"Hovis is an awesome dog, very well behaved. He loves kids and other dogs. Is happy in busy settings like cafes and bars. He loves to play tug of war with a squeaky toy."

Hovis' owner, Liam from Sheffield

How much exercise do Pembroke Welsh Corgis need?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are active and energetic dogs that thrive on daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Despite their short legs, they have plenty of stamina and require around 1 to 1.5 hours of exercise per day, which can include a mix of brisk walks, interactive games, and playtime. Their high intelligence also makes mental stimulation essential, so activities like puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility exercises are great for keeping them engaged.

While Corgis love activity, care should be taken to avoid overexertion, particularly because of their long bodies and short legs, which can make them prone to back injuries. Activities that involve jumping or excessive strain on their backs should be avoided. Instead, focus on regular, moderate exercise like walks, short runs, or play sessions in a safe, enclosed area.

Exercise for Pembroke Welsh Corgi Puppies:

For puppies, exercise needs to be tailored to their age and developmental stage. Over-exercising growing puppies can place unnecessary strain on their developing joints and bones.

Puppies should have shorter exercise sessions multiple times a day, totalling around 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Gradually increase exercise duration and intensity as they grow, ensuring that activities are low-impact and appropriate for their size and energy levels.
By 12 to 18 months, most Corgis can handle adult-level exercise, but every dog is unique, so consult your vet for specific advice.

Providing a balance of physical activity and mental stimulation will keep your Pembroke Welsh Corgi happy, healthy, and well-behaved, while minimising the risk of injury.

Tofu, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi with mud on its face

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Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis need grooming?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a medium-length double coat that includes a dense undercoat and a slightly longer, weather-resistant outer coat. Their coat comes in various colours, including red, tri-colour, fawn, and sable, giving them their distinctive and charming appearance. Despite their fluffy look, Corgis have moderate grooming needs and are relatively low-maintenance compared to some other breeds.

Regular brushing once or twice a week is usually sufficient to keep their coat healthy, remove loose hair, and prevent matting. During shedding seasons, which occur in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage the increased hair loss. A slicker brush or de-shedding tool can be helpful during these periods.

Bathing is typically required every 2-3 months or whenever they get particularly dirty. Over bathing should be avoided to prevent stripping their coat of natural oils, which help maintain its weather-resistant qualities.

Additionally, like any dog, dental hygiene is crucial for Corgis. Ideally, their teeth should be brushed daily using dog-specific toothpaste, but if daily brushing isn’t possible, aim for as often as you can manage. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and checking their coat for debris after outdoor activities will help keep your Pembroke Welsh Corgi looking and feeling their best.

With consistent care, Pembroke Welsh Corgis will not only maintain their iconic appearance but also enjoy better overall health and comfort.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis easy to train?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are highly intelligent and eager to please, which generally makes them responsive to training. Their natural quickness to learn, combined with their strong desire to bond with their owners, makes them a joy to train for both basic obedience and more advanced tasks. However, their stubborn streak can sometimes emerge, so patience and consistency are key to successful training.

Early socialisation is crucial for Corgi puppies to ensure they grow into confident and well-adjusted adults. Exposing them to a variety of people, animals, sounds, and environments helps them adapt to new situations and reduces the risk of behavioural issues. Start socialisation and basic obedience training as early as possible to establish good habits from the beginning.

Corgis thrive with positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and play rewards, which keep them motivated and engaged. They enjoy mentally stimulating activities like puzzle toys, interactive games, and agility training, which cater to their active minds and bodies. To prevent boredom, training sessions should be short, varied, and fun, as monotony can cause them to lose interest.

With the right approach, Pembroke Welsh Corgis can excel in obedience, tricks, and even dog sports. Their combination of intelligence, loyalty, and a playful spirit makes them a delight to train for those who understand their personality and needs.

Two Pembroke Welsh Corgis looking to camera

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What Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis Eat?

A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of Pembroke Welsh Corgis. High-quality commercial dog food formulated for small to medium breeds is recommended, as it is tailored to meet their nutritional needs based on their size, age, and activity level.

Feeding Guidelines for Puppies:

Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies require a puppy-specific diet to support their growth and development. Feed puppies 3-4 times daily until they are about 6 months old, after which their meals can be reduced to twice daily. Always follow the feeding guidelines provided on the food packaging and consult your veterinarian for personalised advice.

Feeding Guidelines for Adults:

Adult Corgis should be fed twice a day with a portion size appropriate for their weight and activity level. Monitoring their calorie intake is crucial, as Pembroke Welsh Corgis are prone to weight gain, which can strain their joints and lead to other health issues. Treats should be limited to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

General Tips:

Always provide fresh, clean water.
Avoid giving table scraps or high-fat foods, as these can upset their digestive system and contribute to weight issues.
Consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about portion sizes or specific dietary needs for your individual dog.

By maintaining a healthy diet and monitoring their weight, Pembroke Welsh Corgis can stay active, energetic, and happy throughout their lives.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis Healthy?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are generally a healthy and resilient breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Being aware of potential health concerns and taking preventive measures can help ensure a long, happy life for your Corgi. Here are some common health issues associated with the breed:

Bones and Joints

Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint, leading to discomfort and, in some cases, arthritis.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Corgis’ long backs make them prone to this condition, where spinal discs slip out of place and press on the spinal cord, potentially causing pain, weakness, or paralysis. Avoiding high-impact activities, such as jumping, can reduce the risk.

Eyes

Cataracts: A clouding of the lens in the eye, which can cause vision impairment or blindness.
Primary Lens Luxation: The lens shifts from its normal position, often leading to glaucoma and inflammation if untreated.

Neurological

Epilepsy: A brain condition that causes seizures. While it can be managed with medication, regular veterinary care is essential for affected dogs.

Urinary

Bladder Stones: Mineral deposits that form in the bladder, which can cause discomfort and, in severe cases, blockages requiring immediate veterinary attention.

General Health Tips for Pembroke Welsh Corgis:

Weight Management: Corgis are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues like hip dysplasia and IVDD. Monitor their diet and provide regular, moderate exercise.
Prevent High-Impact Activities: Due to their long backs, discourage jumping on or off furniture and invest in ramps or stairs to protect their spines.
Regular Vet Check-Ups: Early detection of conditions like cataracts, epilepsy, or bladder stones can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
Eye and Dental Care: Regularly clean their teeth and monitor for signs of eye discomfort, such as redness or cloudiness.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual dogs may have unique health needs. If you have any concerns or want to discuss whether a Pembroke Welsh Corgi is right for you, consult your veterinarian for expert advice tailored to your dog’s health.

Vet top tip

Due to their long backs and short legs, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are prone to spinal issues like Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). To help protect their spine, avoid activities that involve jumping on or off furniture and use ramps or stairs instead. Keeping your Corgi at a healthy weight is also crucial, as excess weight puts additional strain on their joints and spine. Regular vet check-ups can help detect any early signs of discomfort or mobility issues.