The Welsh Corgi is a dog breed that originated in Wales. They are believed to be descended from Swedish Vallhund dogs that came to Wales with the Vikings. Cor gi means “dwarf dog” in Welsh (and the OED gives the Welsh plural corgwn as an alternative to corgis).

An average Welsh Corgi is around 10 to 12 in (250 to 300 mm) tall at the tallest point in the shoulders and weighs approximately 30 lb (15 kg). Originally bred for herding sheep and cattle, Corgis are active dogs, and considered very intelligent. They have proven themselves excellent companion animals and are outstanding competitors in sheepdog trials and agility trials.

Welsh Corgis are generally recognized as two distinct breeds: the Cardigan and the Pembroke. For example, beginning in 1934, the American Kennel Club recognized them as separate breeds. The Cardigan is the larger of the two, with larger rounded ears and a foxy, flowing tail. The Pembroke features rounded, pointed ears and is somewhat smaller in stature. The tails of Pembrokes are traditionally docked to a flat-lying stub, making them appear tailless.The coats of both breeds come in a variety of colors, although there are some differences between the breeds.

The Pembroke was made popular by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, who keeps four at all times, and remains the more common variety.

For more details about each breed, see the breed-specific pages:

Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Cardigan Welsh Corgi