Pembroke Welsh Corgis: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

Origin

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small breed originating in Wales. Like other herding dogs, they were bred for working on farms and herding cattle and sheep.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for their short legs, but they’re super smart, love to play, and are known to be great family companions.

These incredibly popular pups have stolen the hearts and minds of many, including Queen Elizabeth II, who owned more than thirty Corgis during her reign!

Appearance

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are essentially medium-sized dogs on short legs, creating that distinct silhouette that's instantly recognizable whether you're scrolling Instagram or watching The Crown. Their bodies are sturdy and elongated, giving them a substantial presence despite standing only 10-12 inches at the shoulder. This odd proportion isn't a genetic accident—it's a feature that allowed them to nip at cattle's heels while avoiding kicks, proving that sometimes evolutionary practicality trumps conventional canine design.

Their fox-like heads feature alert, triangle-shaped ears that stand upright, constantly monitoring their surroundings like tiny radar dishes. Corgi faces are notably expressive, with intelligent eyes that seem to understand not just what you're saying but what you're thinking. Most Pembrokes have either naturally bobbed tails or traditionally docked ones (though the latter practice is increasingly being abandoned). Their double coat—soft undercoat with a harsher outer layer—comes in several variations: red, sable, fawn, and black and tan, usually with white markings on the legs, chest, neck, and face.

What makes their appearance particularly striking is the contrast between their somewhat comical proportions and the dignified way they carry themselves. Despite legs that barely clear the ground, Corgis move with surprising speed and agility, a reminder of their working dog heritage. Their bodies, typically weighing between 25-30 pounds, are solid muscle beneath that fluffy exterior—these aren't delicate lap dogs but working animals in compact packaging. The combination of these features creates a dog that somehow manages to look simultaneously adorable and respectable, a neat trick that's helped them maintain their popularity from Welsh farms to royal palaces.

Similar breeds

If you've fallen for the Corgi's distinctive silhouette but want to explore similar breeds (whether for lifestyle compatibility, health considerations, or just curiosity), you've got several fascinating alternatives. Here are breeds that share some key characteristics with our beloved stumpy royals:

Cardigan Welsh Corgi: The Corgi's literal cousin—think of them as the slightly bigger, more laid-back family member who also brings excellent genetics to the reunion. Cardigans have tails (unlike many Pembrokes), slightly larger ears, and come in more color variations, including the striking blue merle pattern. They're typically a bit more reserved than their Pembroke relatives but share that same intelligence and herding instinct.

Swedish Vallhund: Often called "the Viking Corgi," these dogs look like someone crossbred a Corgi with a wolf, then shrunk the result. With similar body proportions but a slightly more primitive appearance, Vallhunds share the Corgi's work ethic and intelligence but tend to be a bit more vocal. They've been herding Scandinavian cattle since Viking times, which explains their hardy nature and fearless attitude.

Lancashire Heeler: Imagine a Corgi-Manchester Terrier mix that's been working British farms for centuries. These compact dogs combine the Corgi's short legs and herding abilities with terrier alertness. At 6-12 pounds, they're significantly smaller than Corgis but pack similar intelligence and work drive into their tiny frames.

Australian Cattle Dog: If what you love about Corgis is their working ability and intelligence rather than their short legs, the Australian Cattle Dog offers those qualities in a more conventionally proportioned package. These dogs bring intense focus, remarkable intelligence, and seemingly endless energy—but without the back problems that can plague Corgis.

Shetland Sheepdog: For those drawn to the Corgi's intelligence and trainability but wanting a more traditional herding dog appearance, "Shelties" offer a miniaturized Collie-like alternative. They share the Corgi's remarkable smarts and work ethic but come with that gorgeous flowing coat and a typically gentler herding style.

Temperament

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi approaches life with the confidence of a much bigger dog. Behind those adorable faces lies the mind of an organized and opinionated pup, who is absolutely convinced they know better than you how things should be run. Their affectionate and outgoing nature makes this micromanagement endearing rather than annoying.

Despite their small stature, Corgis bring the energy reserves of much larger working dogs to everything they do. They approach play, work, and even relaxation with a characteristic intensity. That intelligence that makes them relatively easy to train is a double-edged sword—they learn quickly but also apply that same cognitive horsepower to figuring out how to open restricted areas and manipulate other pets and people to their advantage. Living with a Corgi means accepting that you've invited a tiny, sweet yet stubborn being into your home.

While generally wonderful with children, Corgis do require thoughtful training around their herding instincts. Without proper boundaries, their natural tendency to nip heels and control movement can create tension, especially with very young kids who move erratically. But with consistent guidance, this same protective instinct transforms into something beautiful—a small dog who approaches guardianship with the seriousness of a much larger breed. The Corgi effectively embodies that rare combination of playful companion and dedicated worker, reminding us that sometimes the most effective personalities come in unexpected packages.

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis hypoallergenic?

No, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are not hypoallergenic and shed moderately. They are not recommended for people with allergies.

While they generally do not require extensive grooming, Pembroke Welsh Corgis may benefit from regular grooming to maintain their coat's health.

Looking for an allergy-friendly dog? We've got you covered with our guide to hypoallergenic breeds.

Health concerns

Pembroke Welsh Corgis may be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), Von Willebrand's disease (genetic blood clotting disease), and eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary care and preventative measures can help manage these risks.

How big do Corgis get?

Corgis can reach up to 12 inches in height and weigh between 24 and 30 pounds.

The size of an adult Corgi depends on factors like age, gender, and activity levels, and it can be more difficult to estimate if they're a mixed breed.

Life expectancy

You can expect your Pembroke Welsh Corgi to live about 12 to 13 years, a long time at your side, not unlike many other small dogs.

Expected lifetime cost

The lifetime cost of a Pembroke Welsh Corgi can vary, but you can anticipate spending around $17,000 throughout your dog's life. On average, that's about $1,300 per year.

Plan for other expenses like routine vet visits, preventative medications, grooming, and other standard pet care.

Estimated cost to insure

Pet insurance is a great way to manage unexpected medical expenses. The cost of insuring your Pembroke Welsh Corgi can vary based on age, health, and location. You can expect to pay around $25-$90 per month for their coverage.

The good, the bad, the ugly

Interested in getting a Pembroke Welsh Corgi? Keep these unique traits and characteristics in mind when making your decision:

1. Energetic Nature: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known for having a lively and playful personality, making them great family pets. This can come with a determined, herding side, but who doesn’t love a little bit of that?

2. Good With Kids: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are known to be good with children and make great family pets. They are playful and energetic, and their size makes them perfect companions for kids.

3. Health Concerns: Corgis may be prone to health issues, including hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Some conditions particularly common among this breed include genetic diseases like Von Willebrand's disease and progressive retinal atrophy.

4. Grooming: Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a double coat that requires regular grooming and is not hypoallergenic. Weekly brushing and occasional baths can help keep their coat clean and healthy.

5. Trainability: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent, agreeable, and highly trainable, making them great partners for those who love to teach their dogs new tricks.

So you want a Pembroke Welsh Corgi...

Adorable, energetic, and super smart, it’s no wonder so many love the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. These dogs will bring boundless joy to your life with their infectious personalities.

If you could use a new best friend that’s oh-so-cute, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi might be the perfect candidate to be your curious copilot.