DOG HISTORIANS WHO THEORIZE that the Cardigan and Pembroke Corgis originated from a Swedish Vallhund/Welsh herd dog cross claim that further crosses account for the obvious physical differences between the two breeds. The fox-like head of the Pembroke Corgi, they claim, was accentuated by cross breeding to members of the Spitz family of dogs. Both the Schipperke and the Pomeranian are suggested because these breeds were brought to Wales early in the 12th century by Flemish weavers who settled in Pembrokeshire, Wales. It is also thought that the Lancashire Heeler, a small black and tan cattle dog similar in type to the Pembroke Corgi, could share in the breed's ancestry.



Whatever his background, the final product exerted enormous appeal. It is reported that every farm in the county had at least two Pembroke Corgis. And with the Corgi's introduction to dog shows it was the Pembroke that dominated the breed. While both the Cardigan and Pembroke varieties were still being shown as a single breed, the first Corgi to become a champion was a red Pembroke female. The first male Corgi champion was also a Pembroke.



While this was enough to assure a following for the engaging little Pembroke, it was royal patronage that brought the breed international fame. In 1933 King George Vl, then thc Duke of York, purchased a Pembroke Corgi puppy for his daughters. Elizabeth and Margaret Rose. Later a mate was added to the family and descendants of these Pembroke Corgis are pets of the Royal Family today.



In 1975 The Kennel Club (England) commissioned a portrait of its patron, Queen Elizabeth II. This work shows Her Majesty surrounded by some of her dogs. The little fellow with its forefeet on her lap that Queen Elizabeth II is patting, is one of her favourites, the Pembroke Corgi ''Windsor Brush".

Did you know?

The Pembroke was brought to Wales in A.D. 1107 by Flemish weavers. The name "corgi" comes from the Welsh language and means "dwarf dog." The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the smallest dog in the herding group.

So you want to own a Pembroke Welsh Corgi?

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi sheds a lot. Your pet Pembroke should be brushed thoroughly at least twice a week. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an active dog who is willing and able to carry out his owner's commands in the pasture, the obedience ring, or the family home. The typical Pembroke is happy, obedient, friendly, and confident and great fun to live with.

Links to Pembroke Information