About the Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small herding dog breed that comes from Wales. You might recognize them by their short legs, long bodies, and large, upright ears. They are sometimes called simply “Corgis.”
Key Traits:
- Weight: 25–30 pounds
- Height: 10–12 inches at the shoulder
- Life Span: 12–13 years
- Colors: red, sable, fawn, black and tan (with or without white markings)
A special feature of Pembroke Welsh Corgis is that most are born with short or “docked” tails. This makes them easy to tell apart from the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, which has a long tail. You’ll find that Corgis are alert, friendly, and intelligent. They love being active and learning new things. Their herding instincts make them good with children and other pets, though they may try to “herd” people by nipping at heels.
Corgis were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1934 as the smallest member of the Herding Group. They have a long history that goes back as far as the 10th century, making them a very old breed.
Typical Corgi Temperament:
Trait | Description |
---|---|
Energy | High |
Trainable | Very |
Shedding | Moderate to Heavy |
Social | Outgoing |
With the right care, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi can make a loyal and loving companion for many years.
Is This the Right Breed for You?
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are friendly and playful. They fit well with families and individuals who can provide attention and regular exercise. If you are looking for a loyal companion that likes activity, this breed is a good option.
Consider these important points:
- Exercise Needs: Corgis have lots of energy. Daily walks and play help keep them healthy and calm.
- Size: They are small but sturdy. Adult Pembrokes usually weigh 25 to 30 pounds.
- Shedding: Be ready for regular grooming. Corgis shed quite a bit all year.
Characteristic | Description |
---|---|
Temperament | Friendly, alert, intelligent |
Activity Level | High |
Grooming Needs | Moderate to high |
Corgis want to be with their people. They may not like being alone for long hours. If you have very young children or fragile elderly people at home, watch your dog closely. Corgis sometimes nip when excited, and their herding instinct is strong. Doing your homework can help you find a good match for your lifestyle.
Where to Buy a Pembroke Welsh Corgi Puppy or Dog
You have several options if you want to buy a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. The most common places are breeders, adoption centers, and online puppy marketplaces. Each has pros and cons to consider.
Reputable breeders often have puppies from healthy parents. You can find AKC-registered Corgis from breeders through the AKC Marketplace or sites like Puppy Spot. Breeders may have waiting lists, but they provide health records and allow you to meet the puppy’s parents.
Adoption centers or rescue groups may have adult Corgis or mixes that need a home. This is a good choice if you want to help a dog in need. Check with local shelters and breed-specific rescues.
For quick searching, here’s a brief comparison:
Option | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Breeder | Healthy puppies, meet parents | Higher cost, potential wait |
Adoption/Rescue | Help a dog in need, lower cost | Fewer puppies, unknown history |
Online Marketplaces | Wide selection, fast searching | Must check legitimacy, possible scams |
Tip: Meet the puppy in person and ask questions about health and temperament before buying or adopting.
How to Choose a Reputable Breeder or Platform
When looking for a Corgi puppy, it’s important to find a breeder or platform you can trust. A good breeder will care about the dogs’ health and happiness. Never rush your choice.
Ask breeders questions like:
- How old are the parents?
- How many litters has the mother had?
- Are the puppies’ parents registered with a recognized club?
- Are the puppies raised at home or in a kennel?
- What health tests have been done on the parents?
Below is a comparison table of what to look for:
Feature | Good Breeder | Bad Breeder |
---|---|---|
Health Testing | Done and proof provided | Not done or no proof |
Puppy Socialization | Puppies handled and exposed to people | Isolated or little interaction |
Breeder’s Questions | Interviews you about your lifestyle | Sells to anyone |
Contracts | Written agreements and health guarantees | No paperwork |
You can visit a state breed club or go to a local dog show to meet breeders in person. National breed clubs also have online directories that can help you get started. Many reputable breeders will ask about your home, lifestyle, and plans for the puppy before agreeing to sell. This shows they want the best for their dogs, not just a quick sale.
Be careful with online platforms. Only use trusted sites and always do your research before committing. Watch for red flags like poor communication, no health records, or requests for payment without meeting the puppy first. Choosing the right breeder or platform helps ensure your new Corgi will be healthy, happy, and a good fit for your family.
Getting Your New Pup Home
Before bringing your Pembroke Welsh Corgi home, get your space ready. Make sure you have all the basic supplies, like a crate, food, water bowls, collar, leash, and chew toys. Plan how you will transport your puppy. Use a secure crate or carrier for safe travel in your car. Avoid letting your puppy roam free during the ride.
When you arrive home, keep things calm. Let your puppy explore one room at a time. This helps them feel safe and less overwhelmed.
Here’s a quick list of things to prep before your puppy arrives:
- Puppy food (ask the breeder what they feed)
- Crate or dog bed
- Food and water bowls
- Collar and leash
- Puppy pads and cleaning supplies
- Chew toys
Try to keep your schedule open for the first few days. Spend time helping your puppy settle in. Stay patient as your new pup adjusts to new sights and smells. If you got your Corgi from a reputable breeder, keep contact info handy for any questions. Some breeders offer tips and support for new owners. Make the first vet visit within a week. Bring any shot and health records your breeder gave you. Early check-ups help your puppy start off healthy.