Corgis have charmed dog lovers worldwide with their adorable looks and playful personalities.
When you see those short legs and expressive faces, you might wonder what breeds came together to create such a distinctive dog.
Contrary to what many believe, corgis aren’t a mix of two different breeds but rather exist as two separate and distinct breeds: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.
These two corgi types share many similarities but have different origins and characteristics.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a fox-like appearance with a smaller frame, while the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is slightly larger with a more rounded shape.
Both varieties have fascinating histories dating back centuries in Wales, where they were bred as herding dogs with remarkable intelligence and work ethic.
Understanding the differences between these two distinct corgi types helps potential owners choose the right companion for their lifestyle.
Their ancient Welsh heritage explains not only their physical traits but also their loyal, hardworking temperament that makes them such beloved family pets today.
Origins Of The Corgi
Corgis have a rich history dating back centuries in Wales. These small but mighty dogs come in two distinct varieties: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Though they share the Corgi name, they are separate breeds with different backgrounds.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is the older of the two breeds. They have been in Wales for over 3,000 years, believed to have been brought by Celtic tribes. These ancient herders have distinctive rounded ears and a fox-like tail.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis arrived later, around 1000 AD. They were likely brought to Wales by Flemish weavers. Pembrokes typically have pointed ears and either no tail or a very short one.
Despite popular belief, Corgis weren’t created by crossing two different breeds. Each type developed independently in different parts of Wales. The Cardigan originated in Cardiganshire (now Ceredigion), while the Pembroke came from Pembrokeshire.
Welsh folklore adds enchantment to the Corgi’s origin. According to legend, Corgis were magical gifts from fairies who used them as steeds. The distinctive shoulder markings on some Corgis are said to be the “fairy saddle” imprint.
Both breeds were primarily developed as herding dogs. Their short legs and sturdy bodies were perfect for nipping at cattle’s heels while avoiding kicks. This practical design shows how Corgis were bred for working ability rather than appearance.
What Breeds Make A Corgi?
The Corgi breed actually comes from two distinct types: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. These two breeds were crossed to create the Corgis we know today.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a fox-like appearance and is typically smaller in size. They have pointed ears and a more rectangular body shape.
In contrast, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is larger and has a more rounded shape. They often have rounder ears and a longer tail than their Pembroke cousins.
Some research suggests that the Swedish Vallhund may have also contributed to the development of modern Corgis. This ancient herding breed shares many physical characteristics with Corgis.
Key Differences Between the Two Main Corgi Breeds:
| Feature | Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Cardigan Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|---|
| Tail | Usually bobbed or docked | Long and fox-like |
| Ears | Pointed, erect | Rounder, larger |
| Size | Smaller | Slightly larger |
| Body Shape | More rectangular | More rounded |
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi gained significant popularity due to its association with British royalty. Queen Elizabeth II was known for her love of this breed and owned many throughout her reign.
Both types of Corgis were originally bred as herding dogs in Wales. Their short legs and sturdy bodies made them excellent at nipping at the heels of cattle and other livestock.
Characteristics Of Corgi
Corgis are small to medium-sized dogs with distinctive physical features that make them instantly recognizable. They have long bodies, short legs, and large, erect ears that give them an alert appearance. Most corgis stand between 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder but can weigh between 25-38 pounds.
One of the most notable characteristics of corgis is their short stature combined with a surprisingly muscular build. This unique body shape comes from their origins as herding dogs, where they needed to be low enough to nip at cattle’s heels while avoiding kicks.
Corgis possess a thick double coat that comes in various colors including:
- Red
- Sable
- Fawn
- Black and tan
- Tri-color (black, tan, and white)
Their facial expression is often described as fox-like, with intelligent eyes and an attentive gaze. Most corgis have a naturally docked or short tail, though Cardigan Welsh Corgis typically retain their long tails.
Temperamentally, corgis are known for their bold personalities and high energy levels. They tend to be highly intelligent, trainable, and eager to please, but can also display strong-willed behavior at times.
Corgis are famous for their complex personalities that blend playfulness with determination. They form strong bonds with their families and often show protective instincts despite their small size.
These dogs typically live 12-15 years and maintain their active, alert demeanor throughout their lives. Their intelligence and work ethic reflect their heritage as working dogs bred for herding livestock.
