Each month we will be shining a light on different dog breeds in our series, Dog Breed of the Month. Next up, we look at the lively, lovable Pembroke Welsh Corgis.
Perhaps best known as the Queen's favourite dog breed, the gorgeous Corgi is a wonderful pup with lots of energy. Whether you own a Corgi or are considering adopting one in the near future, there are plenty of reasons why they make excellent family pets.
"Pembroke Welsh Corgis don't need much introduction, as they are well-known as the pet dogs of the Queen," Bill Lambert from The Kennel Club tells Country Living. "Pembroke Corgis started as great working dogs, but their friendly nature and size over time turned them into one of the nation's favourite pets, crowned with royal patronage."
Here's everything you need to know about Pembroke Welsh Corgis, including need-to-know facts, size, life expectancy, origin and temperament.
Are Corgis good pets?
When given proper training and attention, Corgis make wonderful pets. Much like humans, their personalities too can vary, with characteristics including being happy, smart, fun-loving, loyal, stubborn, and playful.
Bill tells CL: "Corgis are friendly, outgoing and intelligent dogs suitable for owners with different lifestyles. They need a moderate amount of exercise but will not mind more active owners. Their intelligence makes them easier to train and suitable choice for first-time owners and their small size means that Corgis will be happy in town or countryside as long as they have a small garden to enjoy."
What is the difference between Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis?
While both dog breeds are small-sized pups, the Cardigan corgi is the bigger of the two breeds. According to the AKC, Cardigan Welsh Corgis have long, foxlike tails, meanwhile Pembroke Welsh Corgis have their tails docked close to their bodies. Male Cardigans weigh up to 38 pounds, with Pembrokes only weighing around 30 pounds.
Are Corgis high-maintenance?
Smart and affectionate, Corgis are a low-maintenance house dog. Before adopting one, it's worth knowing that their thick coats will need taking care of. "Corgis have a medium-length double coat and therefore need regular grooming, more than once a week," Bill adds. "They also shed significantly, sometimes twice a year."
Looking for tips on how to groom your dog at home? We have a guide on how to groom your dog at home.
What are some of the highlights of a Corgi?
Some fun facts about these gorgeous pups include:
- They are incredibly vocal dogs, so you may find them barking at everything.
- While they might be small in size, they are filled to the brim with energy and will keep their owners on their toes.
- They can occasionally be known for over-eating, so do be careful to monitor what they eat.
Does the Queen still own Corgis?
Known as one of the most agreeable of small house dogs, loyal Corgis are perhaps famous for being the Queen's favourite breed. While Her Majesty's last remaining Corgi died in 2018, she spent her lifetime loving the small adorable breed. According to previous research, it's thought the Queen has had over 30 Corgis throughout her 63-year reign.
The Queen first fell in love with the breed in 1933 when her father, King George VI, gifted a corgi to Elizabeth and Margaret. They have been in the royal family ever since, becoming well-known little royal-approved pups.
Bill explains: "It's not a big surprise the royal family has chosen this intelligent and loving dog as its favourite. Pembroke Corgis started as great working dogs, but their friendly nature and size over time turned them into one of the nation’s favourite pets, crowned with royal patronage."
What is the Queen like as a dog owner?
"Her Majesty the Queen is a fantastic dog trainer," Roger Mugford, the Queen's former Corgi trainer tells Country Living. "When I visited her, she had nine dogs and they were incredibly well controlled, well managed and obedient. And of course, the question is, why did she need me to come in? It's because there were occasional fights between members of her pack. One dog in particular, Chippy, was picking fights with another dog. All dog fights are really scary — it's the surefire way to be bitten, separating dogs having a good fight.
"The queen is so knowledgeable about dogs and so caring about the welfare of her dogs. To me, it was a real pleasure to have a client who was so well-informed," adds Roger. "She is a very 'hands-on' ordinary pet owner, who is just as level as you or me. I spend a lot of time in South Africa with really poor people in the townships and their love is the same love that I have for dogs and that the Queen of England has for her dogs."
Who should own a Corgi?
Looking to adopt a Corgi of your own? Before adopting any dog, of course, always make sure you do your research. "Corgis are friendly, outgoing and intelligent dogs suitable for owners with different lifestyles," says Bill.
"They need a moderate amount of exercise but will not mind more active owners. Their intelligence makes them easier to train and suitable choice for first-time owners and their small size means that Corgis will be happy in town or countryside as long as they have a small garden to enjoy."
Are Corgis OK to be left alone?
No, Corgis shouldn't be left on their own all day. They were bred as a herding breed, which means they are used to the company of other animals and their master. If you have to pop out of the house, always ask a friend if they can take care of your dog instead. Much like humans, dogs too can feel lonely and sad when spending time alone.
How much does a Corgi cost?
The price of a well-bred Pembroke Welsh Corgi is usually around £1,000. Corgis are known for being more expensive breeds, often costing owners a lot of money due to vaccinations and other medical treatments (this is in the first year of ownership).
Can Corgis be aggressive?
In short, Corgis are not naturally aggressive dogs, however some circumstances may provoke short temper or violent behaviour. According to previous research, Pembroke Welsh Corgis can often bit a bit pushy towards dogs and cats they don't know. It's worth knowing that they have an independent mind of their own, so can be quite wilful.
Need some more help finding the right pup to adopt? Take a look at our expert-approved guides below:
- 10 dog breeds that make the best therapy dogs
- Here's why easy-going Cocker Spaniels make the perfect family dog
- 5 outgoing dog breeds that will bring you out of your shell
- 6 of the best family dog breeds who are great with children
- 5 calm dog breeds for owners who are laid-back
- The 3 most affectionate dog breeds for owners who love cuddles
Platinum Jubilee souvenirs and gifts to celebrate the Queen
Emma Bridgewater Queen's Platinum Jubilee God Save The Queen Mug
This historic jubilee makes a great excuse to add another Emma Bridgewater mug to your collection! This one features our national anthem in EB's signature script on a proud red background.
Here's a more subtle design from Emma Bridgewater.
Emma Bridgewater Queen's Platinum Jubilee 70 Glorious Years Mug
Lastly, the potter has this vibrant green option. Which will you choose?
Harrods Queen's Platinum Jubilee Mug
Harrods has released its own commemorative mug, too. This fine bone china option features the dates of the Queen's reign in shining gold and finished with the royal crests.
Sandie Burton Designs Queen's Platinum Jubilee Cushion Cover
Particularly dedicated royalists will be pleased with this lovely handmade cushion cover; it's thoroughly celebratory without being garish. It'd fit right in with a country cottage scheme while adding a cheerful flash of colour.
This design is also available as a tea towel, if you prefer – in a good range of colours.
This makes a fun memento – use it to display your scones or sandwiches for your Jubilee garden party over the bank holiday weekend, then display it on the wall or your cabinet after the festivities are done.
Hang this suitably British bunting around your garden fence, conservatory or the front of your property to show your appreciation for our longest-reigning monarch. It comes in either two or five metre lengths, or you can ask for your specific requirements.
Historic Royal Palaces 2022 Platinum Jubilee Imperial State Crown Decoration
Made from gold-plated pewter and studded with glittering crystals, this ornate decoration is exclusive to the Historic Royal Palaces shop. Keep it proudly on display in a cabinet, or you could even use the hanging loop to turn it into a Christmas tree ornament, if you like.
No garden party is complete without cake. These rice paper toppers will ensure your offerings are less Victoria sponge and more Elizabeth II – much more appropriate, in this instance!
Cheviot Ceramics Queen's Platinum Jubilee Mug
A subtle design finished with traditional royal purple crowns; these are lovingly hand-painted to order, so you know you're getting something thoughtful to commemorate this special occasion.
Royal Collection Shop Longest Reigning Monarch Commemorative Oval Charger
Okay, this charger plate is expensive, but it is handmade from fine bone china and finished with burnished 22-carat gold detailing, so it is a really exquisite piece. Plus, we're sure you agree that a Platinum jubilee party deserves something extra special to celebrate properly. Put this plate pride of place on your table to show off your afternoon tea spread for your do.
Emma Bridgewater Crown Jewels Tea Towel
With its ornate crown, orb and sceptre design, this lovely Emma Bridgewater design will pay homage to our queen while brightening up your kitchen (and helping with the washing up!).
Katie Oldhaus Queen's Platinum Jubilee Tea Towel
Traditional tones in white, blue and red here for this tea towel – and there's some matching bunting available, too.
More tea towels here – choose your favourite design, or collect all three!
Harrods HM Queen Elizabeth II Teapot
To match the charger plate above, this charming teapot will finish off your royal scheme perfectly. We just love the little crown on the lid.
