All about the Queen's favorites: history, description, features of the Welsh Corgi

What do corgis look like?

The name “Corgi” hides two breeds at once Meet Two Similar Yet Different Breeds: The Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi - the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. These dogs are similar to each other, but there are differences between them.

This is what a Pembroke Welsh Corgi looks like. Photo: Laures/Depositphotos

Initially, both Cardigans and Pembrokes were herding dogs that helped watch over livestock. Only one lived in southwest Wales, and the other in its southern part. Their earlier history and origins also have little in common.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is one of the oldest breeds in the British Isles. Their ancestors were brought to Wales by Celtic tribes before our era. The Pembrokes are much “younger”. Most likely, they came to the British Isles along with the Vikings, and the history of the breed can be traced back to approximately the 11th century of our millennium.

This is what a Cardigan Welsh Corgi looks like. Photo: Lenkadan / Depositphotos

But the differences don’t end with the historical nuances—outwardly, they are also not exact copies of each other. Yes, representatives of both breeds are small in size, with large heads, elongated bodies on short and thin limbs. The ears of both are quite large and stand upright, but in cardigans they are somewhat larger and more noticeably rounded.

There are also many other differences. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is slightly smaller. The average weight of adult male dogs is within 13.5 kg, while more massive cardigans can weigh up to 17 kg.

The general proportions of the body are also not identical. Pembrokes have a level topline, the front legs are straight and parallel, and the hind legs are powerful and strong. Cardigans have a slightly sloping croup, the front of the body is more massive than the back, and the front legs are slightly turned outward.

Another important point: Cardigan Welsh Corgis have low-set, long fluffy tails. Pembrokes have different tails: also long, docked or stubby from birth (natural bobtails). Dogs of both breeds are allowed different colors, including red, sable and others.

Care and maintenance

Despite the fact that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a fairly expensive breed, you will not find any particularly complex requirements for caring for it. There is practically no characteristic odor from these dogs, so you won’t need to bathe them often. However, given that the dog has short legs, it will not be possible to avoid water procedures in rainy weather. For bathing, use only special high-quality shampoos and do not forget to thoroughly rinse off any remaining detergents from the coat. To make the corgi less dirty, many owners buy special overalls.

As part of hygiene procedures, it is important not to forget to trim your pet’s nails at a certain frequency (at least once a week). During manipulations, do not forget to trim the hair between the toes. Also keep your dog's ears clean and clean them as they become dirty.

Grooming is extremely simple. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds twice a year, during which time try to thoroughly brush the dog every day. In other periods, it is enough to occasionally brush the dog.

As for the diet, many breeders suggest opting for premium dry food. If you decide to give preference to natural products, then you should remember that the main task is to provide your pet with balanced nutrition. The diet must include meat products (with the exception of poultry), cereal porridges, eggs (at least twice a week), and low-fat cottage cheese. It is better not to use legumes (lentils, peas) and pearl barley when feeding your corgi. Don't forget to include vegetables in your pet's diet. It is unnecessary to remind about the constant availability of clean water.

Animals quickly get used to any living conditions, be it a small apartment or a country house. They have a nice thick undercoat that protects them from cold in winter and heat in summer, but this does not mean that you can keep a Pembroke Welsh Corgi in a kennel outside. This is still more of an indoor breed of dog, and it is better for it to be in the house.

Combing a Welsh Corgi's fur

If you live in a city apartment, try to provide your pet with good physical activity.

Setting up a dog area is not difficult. Any unnecessary pillow is suitable for this; you can put a pillowcase on it and change it when it gets dirty. If this option does not suit you, purchase a special house for your pet at the pet store.

Keeping in mind the corgi's natural activity, buy your pet a sufficient number of toys.

When buying a Pembroke, be prepared to give him as much of your time as possible - because he needs it so much.

What is the character of a corgi?

Representatives of both breeds Meet Two Similar Yet Different Breeds: The Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are loyal companions and true friends. They enjoy spending time in the company of adults and children. At the same time, corgis are very smart and train well if you devote enough time to the process.

Nevertheless, there are differences in the characters. Pembrokes are very active, impulsive, energetic - sometimes even overly energetic - friendly and affectionate. They are much more sociable, ready to immediately plunge into any fun and follow a person into various adventures. These dogs will be happy to spend together 24 hours a day, no matter what they have to do all this time.

Cardigans are more restrained and calm. It is common for them to first assess a situation before taking part in it. Dogs of this breed are often less energetic, although they are ready to enthusiastically support a fun game. Cardigan Welsh Corgis are equally good at lying next to a person and going on long journeys with him.

Breed characteristics and character

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated in British Wales and is today recognized as Queen Elizabeth's favorite breed. The funny appearance of the dog gave rise to a lot of nicknames - the “smiling dog”, and the “micro shepherd”, and even the “Cheshire cat”.

In addition, the charming dog has recently become a common meme on the Internet. The surge in popularity dates back to the 2000s-1900s of this century, but the history of its origin goes back several centuries, starting with the knights of King Arthur.

There is a legend that these dogs were part of the sleds and gave fairies and elves rides. But this, of course, is fiction. However, the outline of the muzzle resembles a bridle, and on the back there is a recess for a saddle. According to some versions, the breed is classified as dwarf and decorative; according to others, it is considered a guard shepherd dog.

The second version is also supported by his physique - short and well-built. It was the short shepherds who dealt with the herds, easily maneuvering, running under the feet of large livestock. Reviews from owners about the Pembroke Welsh Corgi testify to the dog’s docile and balanced character. The dog is cheerful and playful, which makes it compatible with small children.

The Welsh Corgi will also find a common language with other pets. He behaves warily with strangers, but does not show aggression. Rather, she will show cordiality and cheerfulness if she likes the person. So the dog can be called intelligent and even ethical.

What living conditions are required for corgis?

After your pet appears in the house, give him his own place - a special bed or mattress, which can be bought at a pet store. Your dog will also enjoy playing with balls and other toys.

Another must-have item is walking your corgi. Small dogs are quite active, and street promenades, activities in special areas and active games in the forest or park will help them throw out all their accumulated energy. In addition, regular exercise will help keep the animal in good physical shape.

Don't let your pet get bored within four walls. Photo: Brusnikaphoto / Depositphotos

From an early age, accustom your pet to the rules of behavior on the street and educate him, and then the corgi will not cause problems for you or others.

Tricolor

Tricolor - this means that the dog’s coat has 3 colors, where one is the main color, and the other 2 colors will play the role of secondary ones. The tricolor color is divided into:

Blackhead

These dogs are almost black in color.

Black color is very insidious. It can simultaneously emphasize both the beauty of the dog’s exterior and reveal the dog’s external flaws.

And thanks to black, the dog looks slimmer, more elegant and appears smaller in size.

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Deep coloring

In this case, the coat has a bright reddish tint, deep black on the body and white on the chest, neck and muzzle area. Moreover, all three colors have uniform application.

A dog with a deep tricolor coat color looks amazing. In this case, the head is reddish, and dark spots are possible near the ears.

Redhead

With this coloring, the dog is almost all red. There is little black color (in this case) and only on the back. A common occurrence with a red-headed tricolor is pale yellow fur on the tummy, as well as in the chest area and on the “pants.”

Ginger

The red color of the coat is the most recognizable color for the Corgi breed. In this case, the red color can be the most diverse, ranging from pale red to bright red, and in addition a black “mask” on the muzzle is allowed. It is the black “mask” that makes the dog expressive and gives it seriousness.

Your puppy will have a black “mask” only if his parent has the same “mask”. The snow-white color in the red Corgi is usually present in the limbs, groin and face.

Sable

The true sable color of the coat looks amazing and gives the impression that the dog is glowing. Unfortunately, true sable color is a rare occurrence. The essence of sable wool is that at the base the hair has one color, and its tips are always a different color.

Usually the base of the guard hair is light or even red, red, sandy, and the tip of the hair is a more saturated dark, almost black color.

The sable color can appear in a Corgi puppy after 3 months and it starts from the head or in the chest area.

Deer

Deer color is one of the most ancient. Deer includes all shades of sand and golden tones, from the lightest to the deepest colors. However, in this case there should not be a manifestation of a palette of red tones.

A distinctive feature for deer colors will be the transition from dark to light tones on the hips, under the tail, on the limbs and on the belly of the dog.

You cannot call a deer's fur color fawn, sand or red, since these colors are a completely different phenomenon.

Cheprachny

Black-colored wool is conventionally classified as tricolor. These puppies are born almost gray rather than red, and then the gray tone goes away. The Corgi's similar color makes them look like real shepherds. The only difference is that the Corgi will have white markings on the chest area and on the front and back legs.

The saddle coat is a combination of the color palette of the main red and dark grayish or black “saddle blanket”, which covers the dog’s back like a blanket. In this variant, black hairs (starting from the base of the head) extend to the bridge of the nose, forehead, ears, shoulders and tail.

How to feed a corgi

Pay special attention to your pet’s diet, because its health and longevity largely depend on nutrition. After purchasing, check with the breeder what kind of food the puppy is accustomed to, and feed the same for the first time. Otherwise, the baby may develop digestive problems or simply refuse to eat. Over time, the diet can be gradually changed if necessary.

In general, it is permissible to feed a corgi a variety of foods. The simplest option is high-quality ready-made food, which contains all the beneficial and nutritious substances the animal’s body needs. Choose a universal diet or special diets that are created specifically for dogs that have various health problems.

An alternative option is natural food that you prepare specifically for your Corgi. This diet is based on meat, offal, and vegetables. Regular food from our table is prohibited for dogs. Cutlets and sausages are not good for animals, and hot, spicy, smoked and other foods that are familiar to us are completely harmful.

Keep an eye on your dog's weight, as obesity can be dangerous for him. If you doubt whether everything is in order, consult your veterinarian and, if necessary, change your pet's diet. And be sure to always make sure your corgi has a bowl of clean drinking water.

Welsh Corgi diet

It is important to monitor corgi puppies' portion sizes to prevent excess weight gain. Puppies are weaned from begging and fed up to 5 times a day. By six months, meals become two meals a day. Corgi dogs can be fed both natural food and feed. The food is pre-soaked, and from 2.5 months of age it is given dry and do not forget to fill the bowl with fresh water. The volume and number of servings are calculated individually; usually food is purchased from the “Light” series. Adult Pembrokes and Cardigans should not be walked immediately after feeding, nor should they be fed after physical exercise - at least an hour and a half should pass.

Remember, a properly selected diet is the key to a long and healthy life for your pet.

Therefore, take note of the following simple rules:

• exclude fried, smoked, salted, fatty, spicy, as well as sausage, sausages, chicken bones from the dog’s diet;
• no sweet or chocolate dishes, as well as dried fruits;
• Low-fat cheese or unsalted feta cheese, lean bagels, dog bones or cookies especially for dogs are perfect treats;
• Protein must be present in the Corgi's diet. This can be raw or boiled lean meat, dairy products and eggs, as well as boiled liver, kidneys and heart;
• Meat or fish dishes are recommended to be supplemented with finely chopped vegetables;
• If you keep your dog on a natural diet, be sure to use special vitamin and mineral supplements.

Among professional feeds, it is better to give preference to the brands EUKANUBA, ROYAL CANIN and HILLS.

photo: depositphotos.com

How to care for a corgi

Dogs of both breeds need to be brushed regularly throughout the year. During seasonal molting, this must be done every day, because quite a lot of hair falls out. Bathing will help simplify the care process. But you can start brushing only when the Corgi is completely dry.

For bath procedures, you should use special shampoos and other products that are sold in specialized stores. They are safe for animals and provide suitable care.

These dogs should not be cut short. Their fur allows them to maintain optimal body temperature, and if it is too short, the animal can suffer from hypothermia or heatstroke. In addition, after cutting, the previous appearance of the coat is not always completely restored.

Like other dog breeds, all Corgis need to have their nails trimmed regularly and their eyes and ears examined to keep them clean and healthy.

Dog character

The pet loves to be close to people. This breed is known to want constant interaction with the entire family. They may suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time.

As a companion, the Corgi is protective of its family and will warn of any strangers. Animals need to be socialized at an early age to know how to behave around people they don't know.

Dogs are suitable for children and the elderly. When Corgis become agitated, they may bite their heels in response to play. This is due to their original job of being shepherds.

Pets are known to bark a lot if they are not trained. However, they are easy to train due to their high intelligence. The dog loves to be constantly busy. During training and training, use gentle methods, as the dog does not tolerate roughness.

The dogs get along well with other dogs and pets.

Some Pembrokes love to swim, especially in hot weather. However, if your pet doesn't want to go into the water, never force him. This can frighten the dog and cause him stress.

What do corgis get sick of?

Representatives of both breeds are distinguished by good health, although they are also prone to certain diseases that are transmitted, including at the genetic level. Thus, Pembroke Welsh Corgis can suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia, vision and heart problems, degenerative myelopathy and von Willebrand's disease, which affects blood clotting.

Common problems with the Cardigan Welsh Corgi include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness, and degenerative myelopathy, which causes paralysis.

Consult a specialist if you have any concerns about your pet's health. Photo: nejron/Depositphotos

Another important point: it is not advisable for dogs of both breeds to jump from chairs, sofas and other high surfaces. Steep steps can also be dangerous: such acrobatic exercises put animals at risk of developing back problems.

Monitor your pet's condition carefully. If your Corgi becomes lethargic and lethargic, refuses to eat, limps, or exhibits other alarming symptoms, be sure to contact your veterinarian. Remember: the earlier your pet’s health problems are identified, the greater the chance of recovery.

Health

Representatives of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed are not characterized by poor health. With proper care and timely vaccinations, dogs are unlikely to have problems with the immune system, bones, hearing and teeth. Improper nutrition will quickly lead to diarrhea and obesity, as well as general malfunctions of the body. Dogs do not have enzymes to break down any food. Accordingly, unhealthy food that gets into the stomach leaves behind a lot of unpleasant consequences.

Dogs of this breed are characterized by the occurrence of pathologies of vision, digestive and nervous systems, and skin.

Vaccinations

1. Many experienced breeders recommend vaccinating corgi puppies the moment they reach 2 months of age. About 10 days before the first injection, you need to give your pet an anthelmintic. Initially, Vanguard DA2PI or CPV-L is used as a vaccination drug. After the first vaccination, you need to wait a certain amount of time, usually 2-3 weeks . During this period, the puppy should be at home, in warm and comfortable conditions.
2. For the second injection, the Vanguard 5/L vaccine is often used. Drugs may vary, since the final decision regarding their choice is made by the veterinarian or breeder.

Diseases

Corgis often develop allergies to certain foods. This usually happens because the owner feeds the dog too often or does not approach the diet correctly. It is optimal to switch dogs with a weak digestive system to specialized dry food.

List of diseases:

• Eczema . As a preventive measure, you need to constantly inspect your pet’s skin and comb out the fur very carefully. An improper diet can also affect the development of pathology.
• Eye diseases . Representatives of the species have a natural predisposition to such pathologies. Common eye diseases in Corgis include glaucoma and cataracts, as well as corneal ulcers.
• Epilepsy . A disease that occurs against the background of a disorder of the nervous system. In most cases, it is inherited by the dog, but sometimes it occurs as a result of injury.

The pet should be taken to the veterinarian regularly and examined. Monitor your stool, the condition of your coat, teeth, nails, as well as your mood and appetite. Almost all diseases can be identified in the first stages of their development.

What to look for when buying a Corgi

Having decided whether you need a Pembroke or a cardigan, decide on your plans for it. If you just want to buy a purebred pet, pay attention to pet class animals. These puppies are strong and healthy, but are not suitable for exhibitions or breeding. However, their prices are lower.

For breeding, choose puppies of the “breed” class. Look for future exhibitors and even potential champions in the “show” class. Of course, the cost of such animals is high, but they are the most promising.

Be sure to visit the breeder before purchasing. Look at all the puppies and their mother, evaluate the living conditions. All animals, not just the one you choose, must be clean, vigorous, well-fed and active.

Make sure they are kept in good conditions and cared for properly. Pay attention to the documents too. If in any doubt, double-check the information through the club listed on the papers.

Choose a healthy and active puppy. Photo: Zakharova / Depositphotos

The final stage is the transfer of documents for the animal. Together with the baby, you should be given his veterinary passport, which contains information about vaccinations, and a puppy card (metric), which can later be changed to a pedigree. It is also advisable to conclude a purchase and sale agreement, which will also stipulate the responsibilities of the parties.

Of course, you can buy a dog without documents - such puppies are easy to find, for example, on classified ads websites or bird markets. But there is a certain risk in this: no one guarantees you that the puppy is a corgi, and not just a dog similar to it.

And even if the animal is from purebred producers, there is no guarantee that it is healthy and does not have problems with heredity. If you nevertheless bought such a dog, first of all, contact a veterinarian, get a veterinary passport and get vaccinated.

History of the origin of the breed

The breed originated in Wales in the 13th century. These short shepherd dogs were bred to work on the farm. Thanks to their short legs, they easily moved within the herd, biting cows on the legs and dodging hoof strikes. They were called corgis from a combination of the words “dwarf dog”. The breed was highly valued for its working qualities, high intelligence and unpretentiousness. These dogs could herd the herd on their own and protect it from predators.

This branch of the breed was bred in Permbrokeshire. This is a separate territory, so the dogs have developed certain features of appearance and character. Spitz and Swedish Vallhunds took part in the breeding, from which the Pembrokes got the fox face and coat color.

Until the beginning of the 20th century, these short shepherd dogs were known only in Great Britain. Two varieties were bred there: Cardigans and Pembrokes. It was not until 1934 that the two branches of the Welsh Corgi were separated. Cardigans and Pembrokes are now separate breeds. They are a national treasure of Great Britain. And Queen Elizabeth is the greatest lover and connoisseur of the breed. Thanks to this attention from the royal family, she became popular all over the world.

Pictures show the popularity of Pembrokes:

Queen Elizabeth and Corgi

The Queen of Great Britain and the corgi

Where is the best place to buy a puppy: the most famous nurseries

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is not a “fashionable” breed, which partly protects those wishing to purchase a puppy from unscrupulous breeders, and the babies from genetic diseases. However, it’s still not worth purchasing a cardigan “from hand” at the poultry market. The most famous nurseries in Russia are:

1. " Andevol ", Kursk. The nursery has a website: https://www.andvol.ru, where you can look at the puppies, choose the one you like, or sign up in line for the baby. Corgis from this kennel have repeatedly won prizes at exhibitions - both in Russia and abroad.
2. " Vision Style ", Moscow. Website: https://www.corgy.ru. The kennel has been operating since 2009, the dogs from it consistently become prize-winners at exhibitions in Russia, Hungary, and Belarus.
3. “ From the House of Hungre ”, Moscow. Website: https://corgi-iz-doma-vengre.com. The dogs are champions of Russia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Lithuania, and Romania. Prize-winners of the Smiling Corgi competitions.
4. " Highlight-s ", Serpukhov, Moscow region. Website: https://www/pastoralia.ru.

Compare with colors of other dog breeds

• Beagle
• Basenji
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Sheltie

Despite the huge variation in colors, Beagles are allowed to have a certain number of colors.
These include black, white, red, brown and all their shades. The arrangement of tones is not regulated by canine associations. Read here: Beagle colors. The Basenji is an ancient indigenous dog breed. Its development took place without human participation, for this reason their colors are very diverse. White shades in certain areas of the Basenji's body are mandatory. Read the article: Basenji colors.

In the standard, only absolutely black (the undercoat must also be this color), pepper and salt, black and silver and white with a snow-white undercoat are acceptable. More details here: Miniature Schnauzer colors.

This breed has four main colors, but their shades are varied and rich. In all varieties (and for black it is mandatory) white spots are allowed on the forehead, collar area, chest, tips of the paws, and tail. Read the article: Sheltie colors.

Characteristics: pros and cons

1. The animal's character is almost ideal: corgis are balanced, vigilant, not aggressive, but not timid either. Among the disadvantages, one can note a tendency to stubbornness - this dog will not be able to give orders, it will have to be persuaded to do one way or another.
2. There is a positive side to this: the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is extremely smart - they are in 11th place in the ranking of smart dogs. And, although obedience is not their strong point, if they manage to find a common language with an animal, it is difficult to imagine a more loyal friend.
3. The dog is perfect as a companion : it is very attached to the owner, is able to feel his emotional background, understands when it is possible to run and frolic, and when it is better to leave the owner alone. Incredibly active, enjoys walking and learning new tricks.
4. There is also a drawback to extreme devotion: the corgi has a very hard time withstanding separation from its owner and loneliness .
5. He does not show jealousy towards other family members; he accepts the family either as his flock or as a herd that he shepherds.
6. The Cardigan Welsh Corgi loves children than the Pembroke. Rather, he treats them with some caution. But, if the kids do not show cruelty towards him, the cardigan will soon fall in love with them and join in the games. The dog is not recommended for families with a large number of children and with children under 6 years old.
7. It will not be easy to build a harmonious relationship with a cat - a cardigan is able to make friends with a furry pet, but only if the primacy remains with the corgi.
8. As a herding dog, the Corgi has a nasty habit of biting legs , just as he did with unruly cows. This defect can be eliminated with the help of proper education and building a hierarchy in which the owner is at the very top.

Shedding

Cardigan Welsh Corgis shed , but they are quite clean and their coat is easy to comb. The corgi doesn't smell like a dog . Shedding periods occur twice a year, in spring and summer. At this time, a huge amount of hair falls from the cardigan, and it is advisable to comb it every day.

Estrus and mating

The bitch reaches puberty at six months, which is when the first heat occurs. About a week before this, the animal will begin to worry, perhaps falling into melancholy. It is too early to breed a bitch at this time.

Puberty in the Cardigan Welsh Corgi occurs: in females during the second heat, in males - at the age of 15 months.

These animals are quite freedom-loving, so mating should take place in conditions as close as possible to natural ones. Nothing will happen in front of the owners. Mating is not always successful the first time, but if it is successful, puppies will appear in 2.5 months.