Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi Right for You? Traits, Training & Care Tips

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a cheerful, smart, and famously long-and-low herding dog from Wales. Bred to drive cattle by nipping heels, Pembrokes are energetic, people-focused companions who thrive on training games, brisk walks, and family life. If you’re wondering “Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and bark management. Curious “Do Corgis shed a lot?”—they’re heavy seasonal shedders with a dense double coat.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Medium
Coat Type
Double Coat
Coat Texture
Straight
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
High
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
No
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred
Pembroke Welsh Corgi with a reddish-brown and white coat sitting on a dirt path in a green forest, looking cheerful and alert with upright ears.

Breed History of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Originating in Pembrokeshire, Wales, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi developed as a drover’s dog—driving cattle and guarding the farm. Their low stature let them dodge kicks while nipping heels to move livestock. The breed likely shares ancient roots with Nordic spitz-type dogs; it was separated from the Cardigan Welsh Corgi in the 20th century. Today, Pembrokes are beloved companions and competitors in obedience, agility, and herding trials.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

A small, sturdy herder—long body, short legs, and a foxy expression.

  • Weight: 27–30 lb (male), 24–28 lb (female)
  • Height: 10–12 in at the shoulder
  • Coat Type: Medium-length, weather-resistant double coat
  • Coat Colors: Red, sable, fawn, black & tan—often with white markings; occasional “fluffy” long-hair variant occurs
  • Distinctive Physical Traits: Erect ears, short tail (natural bob or docked where legal), deep chest, strong hindquarters, lively, ground-covering trot

How to Groom a Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Coat Care & Maintenance

Low maintenance structure, high seasonal shedding—consistent care is key.

  • Brushing: 2–3×/week; daily during spring/fall “coat blow”
  • Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed; fully dry the undercoat
  • De-shedding Focus: Rump, breeches, collar/ruff, behind ears
  • Trims: Light tidy of feet/sanitary; do not shave the double coat (can damage texture/insulation)
  • Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week; trim nails every 3–4 weeks

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

An athletic little worker that needs daily outlets for body and brain.

  • Daily Duration: 45–75 minutes total
  • Great Activities: Brisk walks, hiking, fetch, agility, rally, herding lessons, food puzzles
  • Suitability: Adapts to houses or apartments with real daily exercise and enrichment

Training a Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Bright, biddable, and food-motivated—training is fun and rewarding.

  • Approach: Positive reinforcement; short, varied sessions
  • Focus Areas: Bark control (“quiet” cue), impulse control, heel-nipping redirection, polite greetings (they’re enthusiastic)
  • Back-Safe Skills: Rear-end awareness, balanced strength work, jump height moderation
  • Socialization: Early exposure to people/dogs/surfaces to channel confidence

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Corgis love food—keep them lean to protect joints and backs.

  • Food Type: High-quality small/medium-breed kibble or balanced fresh diet
  • Daily Quantity: ~1.5–2.5 cups total, split into two meals (adjust to age/activity)
  • Feeding Schedule: Twice daily; count training treats toward daily calories
  • Diet Advice: Aim for a body condition score of 4–5/9; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; consider joint support as adults age

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Generally robust, but chondrodystrophic build brings special considerations.

  • Common Issues: Hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), degenerative myelopathy (DM), patellar luxation, eye disorders (PRA/cataracts), hypothyroidism, obesity
  • Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
  • Recommended Testing: Hips, eyes (CAER), DM DNA testing in breeding dogs; routine dental care; weight management to protect the spine

Where to Adopt or Find Pembroke Welsh Corgi Puppies in Canada

Choose transparent, health-focused sources—or consider rescue.

  • Breeders: Seek CKC-affiliated preservation breeders with hip/eye/DM testing, early socialization plans, and lifetime take-back
  • Adoption: Corgi-specific rescues and herding-breed groups; check local shelters
  • Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club breeder directory; Pembroke Welsh Corgi Association of Canada; local agility/obedience clubs (ON/BC/QC) for training and community

Frequently Asked Questions About the Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good apartment dogs?
Yes—if you meet daily exercise needs (45–75 minutes) and teach “quiet.”

Do Pembroke Welsh Corgis shed a lot?
Yes—heavy seasonal shedding. Brush frequently and use de-shedding tools in coat-blow seasons.

Are Corgis hypoallergenic?
No. They shed and are not considered hypoallergenic.

How much exercise does a Corgi need?
Plan for 45–75 minutes daily plus brain work (tricks, puzzles, training).

Pembroke vs Cardigan—what’s the difference?
Pembrokes typically have a shorter tail and slightly lighter build; Cardigans have a long tail, larger bone, and different ear/overall outline.

Are Corgis good with kids and other pets?
Generally yes—supervise with young children and redirect herding nips into toys/games.

How do I prevent back problems in a Corgi?
Keep them lean, use ramps/steps, avoid repeated high-impact jumps, and build core/hip strength with controlled exercises.

Do Corgis bark a lot?
They’re alert watchdogs. Teach a reliable “quiet,” manage window triggers, and meet exercise needs.

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Pembroke Welsh Corgi with a reddish-brown and white coat sitting on a dirt path in a green forest, looking cheerful and alert with upright ears.
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