When you think of herding, you think of enormous cows or horses and a vicious herding dog that chase them towards the fences. What would you think, however, if you learn of a breed that’s tiny and long and is just plain physically inaccurate to herd and steer these larger breeds? Amazing is probably one of the adjectives for it and that’s exactly how many define the small dog herder, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi – the smallest Corgi!
This small dog is considered to be the smallest of the herding dog breeds yet is ranks 11th in Stanley Cohen’s Intelligence of Dogs. Using its brains and unique physique, this breed is able to champion not only the herding tasks but the different dog competitions as well such as conformation and obedience competitions. Moreover, even the royals can’t help but favor this breed as it is said that the infamous Queen Elizabeth II owns five of them
This dog possesses shorter legs and is low to the ground with a longer body. In herding cows, horses and other enormous flocks, its unique physical features allows it to miss the staggering kicks and bumps of the larger animals. Through its high level of intelligence, it is able to outsmart and lock in the raging herd of bulls and stallions.
As a general definition, the Pembroke Welsh Corgis are lively, sturdy and intelligent type of breed that trains quickly and works better than any other large breeds. Inside the family, it is loyal, protective and loving. It also makes an excellent watchdog as it is always on alert and barks without any hesitations at any stranger it deems threat to its household’s safety.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi should never be mistaken for a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, another breed of the type, as they have been officially separated as a breed for the last 70 years. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is 10 to 12 inches in height and is 12 to 15 inches in length. The coat varies with each dog as there are utterly short-coated ones and long-coated ones.
It has a double coat that is water-resistant, and the inner coat is fine and smooth while the outer coat is rough and short. The breed commonly comes in colors of red, sable, fawn and a combination of black and tan. This breed is unfortunately an excessive shedder and sheds all year round; however, this can be decreased by giving the dog proper foods and regular coat brushing.
The origin of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is unsettled as there are many theories that surround it. Some suggests that the Corgi type descended from the Vallhunds, a Swedish breed brought to Wales by the Vikings during 800s. Another theory suggests that the Celtics brought the breed to Wales during 1200 BC and to back this theory up, the word Corgi is the Celtic word for dog.
According to some, it was the Flemish weavers who introduced the breed to Wales in 1100s. These are the theories that surround the mystery of origin of this magnificent breed, and none are proven to be true, however, what’s clear is the fact that this breed was developed in Pembrokeshire, Wales. But wherever the Pembroke Welsh Corgi may have come from, the only thing that matters is the fact that we have a tiny herder dog to be enjoyed today.
Let us know below if you have a Corgi and what you like about them! They are wonderful pets are certain to make every family happy. And many people probably prefer to have the smallest Corgi as their Best Friend Forever!
