The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a very active breed of dog.  Along with this high activity level comes an intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable companion.  This has been proven over the course of years where these dogs have been used as stock herders, family pets, service for the hearing impaired and assistance dogs, and as therapy dogs.  They have been highly successful in obedience trials, tracking and herding trials, and have had further successes in agility.
     The Pembroke loves to be with his/her family, and does not do well being left in the backyard alone.  This dog is very eager to please, and training in a positive, gentle way is very successful. It is important when training the Pembroke that the activities be varied and creative.  The intelligence of a Pem makes it easily bored with doing the same thing over and over again. The Pem does tend to be protective and tenacious, making this dog an excellent watchdog.  They are also very adaptable to both country living and to city life.  They do need regular exercise, but as long as they can be with their owner, they will be happy anywhere.
     When purchasing a Pembroke be sure to go to a reliable, established breeder.  Puppymills and backyard breeders do not properly socialize their dogs, and often the pedigrees are not properly documented.  Just because the dog has A.K.C. registration paperwork, the A.K.C. depends on the breeder to be honest and give accurate information.  Puppymills and backyard breeders do not check for genetic defects or illnesses.  Their dogs are not cared for as carefully as they should be; for instance, the females are bred every heat, instead of being allowed to reach full maturity; and the puppies are not always dewormed or vaccinated in a timely manner. These dogs can have medical and/or temperament problems.  Not all, but many do.  And once the sale is made, the dog and it's problems are yours alone to deal with. A responsible, established breeder will stand behind the health of their dogs for their entire natural life.
     A Pembroke Welsh Corgi weighs between 25 - 30 pounds.  It's height at the withers is 10 - 12 inches.  It has an average life span of 12 to 15 years.  There have been Pems that have lived 18 and 20 years.  The Pem has no tail to speak of, and if born with one, it is docked while still very young.  This breed of dog has a foxlike appearance, with erect pointed ears and a pointed muzzle.  The Pem possesses a highly weather resistant, two layer coat.  The colors of its coat are red, sable, fawn or tri-color. Its coat does not need a lot of professional attention, unless you're showing in conformation.  Your Pem will need to be combed and brushed on a weekly basis, with a bath as needed.  This is definitely a "wash and go" dog.  One interesting note is when showing in conformation, the hair on the Pem's paws need to be trimmed.  If you are using scissors to do this, the Pem's toes are webbed and you must be careful to cut only the hair.
     The Pem's temperament is one of loyality, interested in the world around and the people in it, intelligent, bold, but kindly, never shy or vicious.  This breed of dog is very personable and outgoing.

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