Corgis are small dogs with big personalities that tend to charm the pants off of everyone they meet. They tend to make great family pets and keep their families entertained with their cheery disposition and comedic antics. Here are a few more facts about Corgis:

1. There is More Than One Type of Corgi

Because they are an adorable and well-rounded dog breed, the Corgi, or Welsh Corgi, is becoming more popular in mixed or designer dog breeds.

Outside of mixed breeds, there are two recognized breeds of Corgi – the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

Although these two breeds are close cousins, they are considered two separate and distinct breeds. The American Kennel Club recognized the two separate Corgi breeds in 1935.

Differences Between Cardigan and Pembroke Welsh Corgis

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is older than the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. While the Cardigan goes back as far as 1200 B.C., the Pembroke is dated around the 1100s. Pembroke Welsh Corgis tend to have bobbed tails while Cardigan Welsh Corgis tend to have longer, full tails.

Pembroke Corgis can be born with naturally occurring bobbed tails while others are docked. The Pembroke also tends to be slightly smaller than the Cardigan. In addition to a slightly heavier, sturdier frame, Cardigan Welsh Corgis also have larger ears than the Pembroke and the tips of their ears tend to be more rounded.

2. Their Name Means “Dwarf Dog”

In the Welsh language, “corgi” roughly translates to “dog” and has colloquially taken on the meaning of “dwarf dog”, which is a fitting name for one the smallest members of the Herding Group.

Corgis are known for their short legs, waddle-type walk, and small stature and are beloved for their charming personalities. They’ve reached social media fame and gained a reputation for being fun dogs that may be short in height but are certainly not short on personality.

3. Corgis Are Herding Dogs

Corgis are herding dogs with a long history of driving cattle by nipping at their heels. They are built specifically to be low enough to the ground to nip at the heels of cattle while also being able to avoid getting kicked. This is one of the reasons they are one of the best dog breeds for farms.

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is one of the oldest of all the British dog breeds. Historians estimate they came to Wales during the mass Celtic migrations from Central Europe to Britain about 3,000 years ago and centered in Cardiganshire.

In addition to their herding skills, Cardis were also commonly found working as hunting dogs, all-purpose farm dogs, and farm and family protectors.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi originated in Pembrokeshire. They were brought into the area by Flemish weavers that Henry I of Britain invited to live and work in the area in 1107.

In addition to their craft, they also brought the short-legged herding dogs that would become the foundation for the modern Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Pembrokes were also often used for herding cattle and sheep and also used the nipping technique common to heelers.

Corgis at Home

Due to this herding instinct, Corgis can sometimes attempt to herd other pets, family members, and children. They may nip at heels in order to herd and direct the flow of people, which can make them a better fit for families with older children who are not as likely to be thrown off balance by the playful behavior.

It’s important to acknowledge this instinct and manage it early on with training and socialization so it does not grow into a behavioral issue. As with any working dog, Corgis need a job to do and, without one, they may decide to make it their job to herd their families.

These are just a few facts about Corgis. A Corgi is a fantastic addition to an active family that can make them an involved member of the family and give them plenty of love and attention.

If you think this dog breed could be the one for you, learn more about them, and then check out the available Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies. You could end up finding your new best friend and may even end up obsessed with Corgis!