The Welsh Corgi - Pembroke & Cardigan

There are two breeds of Welsh Corgi and the differences between them can often cause confusion. An extremely old breed, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi developed from dogs that were taken to Wales by warrior tribes around 1200 BC.  The Cardigan Corgi was a close and loyal family member in the society of the early Celts and its vigilance and intelligence made it an ideal guard dog. The development of an agrarian society in Wales saw the Cardigan Corgi capable of performing another valuble service - it was easily trained to nip at the heels of cattle and drive them out to pasture.  Over the centuries the Cardigan Corgi has provided loyal service not only as a companion but as a guard dog, drover and sporting dog. The Pembroke Corgi can trace its ancestry back to the Flemish weavers who migrated to Wales with the dogs from their homelands in around 1107 AD.  The Pembrokes' forebears proved useful as companions and as small cattle dogs.  It is believed that in these early days there may have been an introduction of the Cardigan Corgi to the Pembroke strain making the two breeds more similar. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has achieved international fame through its connection with the British Royal Family while the Cardigan Welsh Corgi tends to attract less of the limelight in accordance with its more stoic nature. Today the Cardigan is larger and longer-bodied than its cousin the Pembroke and retains a full tail.  The Pembroke Corgi has a sharper head and smaller ears and has a bob-tail. Both breeds of Welsh Corgi are affectionate and loyal to their families while retaining a natural wariness of strangers.  They are a hardy breed, intelligent, and requiring low maintenance.  Their playful personality combines with a compassionate nature. Welsh Corgis fulfil the needs of an average family which requires a faithful and alert companion that will adapt well to a suburban backyard.  They enjoy playing with children and will protect their family with their lives - in keeping with the companionable nature they've had since Celtic times.