Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are active, alert, intelligent dogs. Despite having short legs, these dogs are quick and agile. Their origins as cattle herders have also made the breed fearless and independent. Pembroke Welsh Corgis love to work and love their families. These dogs are loyal pets who make excellent companions.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis also have a reputation as good watchdogs. These small dogs have a big bark and will alert their owners to strangers or unfamiliar sounds.

Feed Pembroke Welsh Corgis a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior). This breed may easily become overweight. In addition to other health concerns, weight strains their long backs, potentially leading to disc problems. To avoid overfeeding, portion out their food with a measuring cup and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily calories.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have waterproof double coats that require regular grooming. Brush them at least once per week to remove loose hair and prevent shedding. During seasonal shedding periods in the spring and summer, regular baths and daily brushing with an undercoat rake will help loosen excess hair. Keep their ears clean, and their nails trimmed.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis benefit from a regular dental care routine that includes at-home teeth-brushing and professional cleanings.

These small dogs have big exercise needs. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are working dogs that are happiest with a job to do. If they are not herding cattle or sheep, this high-energy breed enjoys long walks, hikes, and trips to the dog park. Due to their short legs and bulky bodies, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are not great swimmers and cannot keep up on a bicycle ride. Their long bodies put them at risk of back injuries, so it's important to avoid activities that require a lot of jumping or stairs. They don't appreciate extreme temperatures and should not spend too much time outdoors in extreme heat or cold.

These highly intelligent dogs also excel at agility, obedience, rally, tracking, and herding. Mental stimulation is important, too. Puzzle toys and other games are helpful ways to keep their minds engaged.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent but have a stubborn streak. Consistent training that focuses on positive reinforcement and rewards will help them master basic commands and learn new tasks. These are sensitive dogs, so avoid harsh training methods. Pembroke Welsh Corgis love spending time with their owners and will see training as a bonding experience.

Socialization is essential for this breed. Starting when they are puppies, introduce them to activities that allow them to engage with others. Even if it's interacting with the neighbors on a walk around the block, it will help nurture their need to engage with a wide range of people, pets, and places. Provide regular socialization throughout their lifetimes.