Finding the right dog for you and your lifestyle is a choice that takes plenty of research and careful consideration. The decision to bring a dog into your home shouldn’t be made overnight, regardless of whether you’re a first-time or experienced dog owner. With so many wonderful breeds of different sizes and dispositions, you may feel overwhelmed by choice. If you’re in the market for a small but athletic companion, look no further than the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s Temperament
Known to be one of the most agreeable of smaller house dogs, Pembrokes are lively, loyal, and affectionate companions that need less attention than their counterparts. They’re one of the most popular members of the Herding Group, and quite fearless at their core. A Pembroke’s intelligent, loving nature makes them easily trainable, and a strong candidate for a family pet. Active folks who are eager to form a strong bond with their dog would be a proper match for a Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
Physical Traits and Grooming Needs
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are an easily recognizable breed. Their fluffy behinds and ears that taper to a rounded point are perhaps their most distinctive traits aside from their low-riding stature. These small but mighty dogs have surprisingly muscular legs, allowing them to be quite agile. Pembrokes stand between 10 and 12 inches tall, and weigh around 30 pounds. Their short double coats come in red, sable, fawn, and black and tan, with or without white markings.
Pembrokes’ thick, weatherproof double coats shed a fair amount on a daily basis, with heavier shedding periods during end of spring or early summer. To minimize hair piling up around your home, a daily once-over with a comb and slicker brush will help remove excess hair. Like with all breeds, it is important to trim a Pembroke’s nails regularly and check their ears ensure they’re clean and healthy.
How Much Training Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis Need?
Like any breed, it’s important to socialize a Pembroke early and enroll them in puppy training courses. They can be prone to independent streaks, but are intelligent, willing dogs ready to learn and please their owners. They respond best to positive, reward-based training. Pembrokes are a more sensitive breed, so training with a patient, gentle hand is key to eliciting preferred behaviors.
Bred to herd cattle other livestock, Pembrokes are happiest when they have a job to do. A Pembroke on its best behavior is one that receives plenty of attention from family, and a healthy mix of mental and physical activity. These smart, driven dogs can excel at dog sports like agility, herding, obedience, and tracking events.
Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis Good for Families?
If properly socialized in puppyhood, Pembrokes can make great family dogs. Their highly affectionate, loyal nature makes them a lovely companion. They can also form strong bonds with their owners, offering companionship without being overly needy. They can do well with children, but would likely fair better in a home with older kids.
Pembrokes would be happiest in a family with an active lifestyle. Don’t let their small size make you think they’re just your average lapdog! They’re happy to accompany their loved ones on long walks or a slow jog, but moderate exercise is easiest on their little legs.
How Social Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis?
Pembrokes are known to be social, affectionate dogs — especially if properly socialized and trained. They form good family bonds and can be open to strangers and other dogs. Pembrokes also have a reputation of being “little big dogs.” They’re highly alert, and can make for good watchdogs. They have a big bark despite the small bodies they’re packed into.