Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed a lot?

Yes, Corgis are heavy shedders. They have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, with particularly heavy shedding periods in spring and fall (sometimes called "blowing coat"). Regular brushing helps manage the shedding, but expect fur on your clothes and furniture.

Are Corgis good apartment dogs?

Corgis can adapt to apartment living if they get enough daily exercise (at least 60 minutes). However, be aware that they can be barky, which may bother neighbors. They are also quite active for their size and benefit from regular outdoor time.

Why do Corgis try to herd children?

This is a natural herding instinct bred into them over centuries. Corgis may try to herd children, other pets, or even adults by circling them or nipping at their heels. Consistent training from an early age can redirect this behavior into more appropriate activities.

How long do Corgis live?

Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically live 12-14 years with proper care. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors in their longevity, as obesity can lead to back problems and other health issues.

What is the difference between a Pembroke and Cardigan Corgi?

The main visual difference is that Cardigans have long tails while Pembrokes have naturally short or docked tails. Cardigans are also slightly larger, have rounded ears (vs. pointed in Pembrokes), and come in more color varieties. They are separate breeds with different origins.

Herding

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a spirited, athletic herding breed known for its short legs, long body, and big personality. Despite their small stature, Corgis are bold, intelligent, and surprisingly fast — originally bred to herd cattle by nipping at their heels. Their fox-like face, upright ears, and cheerful expression have made them one of the most popular and recognizable dog breeds in the world, famously favored by Queen Elizabeth II.

Origin

Wales

Life Span

12–14 years

Weight

11–16 kg

Height

25–30 cm

Temperament

AffectionateSmartAlertBoldPlayful

At a Glance

Exercise

high

Grooming

moderate

Shedding

high

Good with Kids

Yes

Good with Pets

Yes

Apartment

Friendly

History

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales, over 1,000 years ago. According to Welsh legend, they were the preferred mount of fairy warriors. In reality, they were brought to Wales by Flemish weavers around 1107 AD. Their low stature made them ideal cattle herders — they could nip at heels while avoiding kicks. Queen Elizabeth II received her first Corgi, Dookie, in 1933 and owned more than 30 during her lifetime, cementing the breed's royal association.

Characteristics

Shedding5/5

Playfulness5/5

Adaptability4/5

Cat Friendly3/5

Dog Friendly4/5

Energy Level4/5

Intelligence5/5

Social Needs4/5

Trainability5/5

Health Issues3/5

Child Friendly4/5

Exercise Needs4/5

Grooming Needs3/5

Affection Level5/5

Watchdog Ability4/5

Stranger Friendly3/5

Apartment Friendly4/5

Barking Tendencies4/5

Care Instructions

Common Health Issues

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

Hip Dysplasia

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Von Willebrand Disease

Degenerative Myelopathy

Fun Facts

Queen Elizabeth II owned more than 30 Pembroke Welsh Corgis during her reign, helping make the breed world-famous

According to Welsh legend, Corgis were the preferred mount of fairy warriors, and the markings on their coats are said to be from fairy saddles

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are the smallest breed in the AKC Herding Group

Despite their short legs, Corgis can run up to 25 mph

The word "Corgi" is believed to come from the Welsh words "cor" (dwarf) and "gi" (dog)

Cost

Purchase Price

1000–3000 USD

Monthly Cost

~$110 USD

Frequently Asked Questions

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Pembroke Welsh Corgi

History

Fun Facts

Queen Elizabeth II owned more than 30 Pembroke Welsh Corgis during her reign, helping make the breed world-famous

According to Welsh legend, Corgis were the preferred mount of fairy warriors, and the markings on their coats are said to be from fairy saddles

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are the smallest breed in the AKC Herding Group

Despite their short legs, Corgis can run up to 25 mph

The word "Corgi" is believed to come from the Welsh words "cor" (dwarf) and "gi" (dog)

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Temperament

At a Glance

History

Characteristics

Care Instructions

Common Health Issues

Fun Facts

Cost

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended for Pembroke Welsh Corgi Owners

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Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Temperament

At a Glance

History

Characteristics

Care Instructions

Common Health Issues

Fun Facts

Cost

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended for Pembroke Welsh Corgi Owners

Related Breeds

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German Shepherd

German Shepherd Dog

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Explore More About Pembroke Welsh Corgi