Let's talk about the Welsh corgi, the Queen of England's dog. We'll trace its history from the very beginning and take a closer look at its physical appearance and personality.
Origins and History of the Welsh Corgi
Even today, it is not entirely clear when the Welsh corgi was first introduced to England. Some believe it is a Celtic dog, while others think that the Welsh corgi, given its resemblance, descends from the Swedish Vallhund, a Swedish herding breed brought to Great Britain by the Vikings. According to yet another theory, the Welsh corgi is a native breed, as records of its presence in England date back to tenth-century documents referring to dogs called curre or cur dog — a word whose Welsh pronunciation closely resembles "corgi".
There is, however, universal agreement on the area of origin of the Welsh corgi: Pembrokeshire, a county in south-west Wales. Many believe that the corgi arrived by sea in this county, travelling aboard Nordic ships. It is thought that the Queen's dog landed in Pembrokeshire with the earliest human settlements and that it was used as a herding dog. The appearance of the corgi at that time was certainly different from today, while its temperament appears to have remained unchanged ever since. The corgi's defining trait was nipping at the hocks of cattle to herd them, but this technique was not suited to sheep. So in 1880, sheep farmers in Cardiganshire crossed the corgi with the Welsh Collie, another Welsh herding breed, giving rise to the Cardigan.
Despite its qualities as a herding dog, the corgi remained relatively unknown for a long time — until 1933, when the then Duke of York, and later King George VI, bought a Welsh corgi puppy as a gift for his daughter, the future Queen Elizabeth II. The dog, a female, was named Susan. From that moment on, the British royal family bred corgis, which to this day are also known as the Queen of England's dogs.
Welsh Corgi Breed Standard
The Welsh corgi is a small dog, with short limbs and an elongated, sturdy build. The corgi stands between 25 and 30 cm at the withers and weighs between 8 and 11 kg for males, and between 8 and 10 kg for females. The back is long and well-structured, the chest unusually broad for its size and deep. The neck is long, with an excellent attachment to the chest and good mobility. The limbs are short and perfectly perpendicular to the ground, very muscular especially at the rear. The feet are oval and well-knit. The tail is naturally short, carried low and, nowadays, left natural; until recently it was docked, and the FCI was consequently obliged to amend the breed standard on this point.
The head is very similar to that of a fox, broad and flat between the ears. The muzzle is elongated, defined by a pronounced but not exaggerated stop. Slightly tapered at the tip, down to a small, black nose. The eyes are large and round, not protruding and well aligned with each other. The colour is hazel, in keeping with the coat. The ears are set high and are shaped like two sharply pointed, erect triangles. The coat is of medium length, lying neatly flat but not too close to the body. To the touch it is very dense, not silky; in appearance it is smooth and tidy. The colours accepted by the breed standard are fawn, red, sable and black and tan. White markings may be present on the tips of the paws, on the head and on the chest.
Caring for the Welsh Corgi: Diet and Nutrition
The health of the Welsh corgi is generally excellent, but it is important to pay close attention to the back and ensure it is not subjected to excessive strain. The Welsh corgi's diet should be straightforward and carefully portioned, and the coat should be brushed frequently and thoroughly.
Welsh Corgi Temperament
The Welsh corgi is a very lovable dog with a great personality. Suitable for almost everyone, and perfectly at home in an apartment. That said, it is worth remembering that it is still a herding dog at heart, and therefore has a well-defined character. The corgi needs a moderate amount of exercise and enjoys a quiet home life just as much as outdoor walks with its owner. While not an intrusive or particularly demanding dog, it can be mischievous enough — and, just as it does naturally with cattle, it enjoys nipping at ankles and heels.
Welsh Corgi Breeders and Price
The Welsh corgi requires an upbringing based on firmness and consistency, with no concessions it might take advantage of, but always delivered with plenty of gentleness. The corgi's character, though endearing, is very determined and strong-willed, which is why it needs to learn to respect the household hierarchy and rules from the very start.
In Italy the breed is known, but not particularly widespread; for detailed information on purchasing a puppy, it is best to contact a specialised breeder recognised by ENCI.
