![Welsh Corgi (Pembroke): The Pembroke Welsh Corgi (/ˈkɔːrɡi/; Welsh for "dwarf dog"[a]) is a cattle herding dog breed that originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales. It is one of two breeds known as a Welsh Corgi, the other being th](/_next/image?url=%2Fbreeds%2F39.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)
Great Britain, Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Weight
- 10–14 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Outgoing
- Affectionate
- Alert
- Eager to learn
- Energetic
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small herding dog from Wales, used to drive cattle by nipping at their heels. It has a long body, short legs, upright ears and a fox-like face. The medium-length double coat is usually red, sable, fawn or tricolour, often with white markings. Tails are naturally short or long depending on the dog.
Temperament
Bright, outgoing and affectionate, usually good with families. It is alert, can bark often, and may try to herd people or pets. It is eager to learn.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and play, along with mental games. It is energetic and sturdy, and enjoys training.
Grooming
Thick double coat with heavy seasonal shedding; brush a couple of times a week, daily during moult.
Care & wellbeing
Weight control is important because the long back and short legs are stressed by extra weight. Avoid repeated jumping and stairs.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 12 kg adult- Water
- 480 ml–720 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 720 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A short-legged Welsh herding dog developed to drive cattle, ponies and sheep by nipping at heels. It is a bold, lively and affectionate breed with a typically bobbed or short tail, and it sheds quite a lot.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Eye problems
- Back problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
- DNA test for DM
Not every Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) get?
Adult Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)s typically stand about 25–30 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 10–14 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)s live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)s easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)s shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)s good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)s have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, eye problems. Not every Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Cattledogs (except Swiss Cattledogs)
- Internationally recognised
- 1963