Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated in Wales in the 1100s. The word “corgi” means “dwarf dog” which accurately describes this breed. There are differing accounts as to how the Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated. It is believed that the Pembroke Welsh Corgis were introduced by Flemish weavers as a working dog. While the exact ancestry of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is often debated, it is believed that the breed originated from a combination of the following breeds: Keeshond, Schipperke, Pomeranian, Samoyed, Chow-Chow, Norwegian Elkhound, and Finnish Spitz. It is often accepted that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi descended from spitz-type breeds that were taken to Britain with the Vikings. The breed’s original purpose was to herd sheep and to lead them by biting their legs. While its primary function now is to serve as a loving companion, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is still used as a watchdog, guard dog, and herder. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has appeared in media in the past. This breed began to gain popularity in the 1930s when King George VI gifted one to his daughters Elizabeth and Margaret. In fact, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has maintained a symbol of royalty with Queen Elizabeth II. To this day, Queen Elizabeth II maintains this breed within her sight at all times. In 1934, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was officially recognized by the AKC. The breed has maintained a steady popularity ranking within the AKC, although not as high as it used to be. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has also appeared in an anime known as Cowboy Bebop as a dog named Ein whose intelligence was enhanced by man.