Meet the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

​Pembrokes are so cute that you can almost forget what tough, hardworking dogs they really are. Standing 10 to 12 inches at the shoulder, a male can weigh 27 to 30 pounds—that’s a lot of dog in a small package. The breed’s powerful legs, muscular thighs, and deep chest equip it for hard work. Built long and low, Pembrokes are surprisingly agile, graceful, and quick. The Pembrokes’ short tail is the easiest way to tell them apart from their long-tailed cousins, Cardigan Welsh Corgis.

What's Their Story?

​In medieval times, weaving was an important trade. The best weavers in Europe lived in a region called Flanders. In 1107, the king of Britain invited a community of these weavers to live and work in Wales. They accepted the invitation and brought all they needed to re-create their way of life in their new home. This included the dogs they used to herd cattle and sheep. These sturdy little herders were the foundation for the breed we now know as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

What are they Like?

​Pembrokes are very smart, sensitive dogs who respond well to training and mental challenges. As herding dogs bred to move cattle from one place to another, they are fearless, independent workers. A Pembroke without a job will often assign himself work, like herding children or his fellow dogs. They make excellent watchdogs, with acute senses and a “big dog” bark. Families who can meet the Pembroke’s need for activity and togetherness will never have a more loyal, loving pet.