The history of the origin and the external standard of the Welsh Corgi, the behavior of the dog and health, recommendations for training, interesting facts. Purchasing a puppy. What a strange dog sprawled on the grass. Having risen from the ground, she did not become taller. Although it seems that this is one breed, but in fact there are two of them. They have many similarities: a fox head, a dachshund's body, round and cunning eyes. However, the color can be different, as well as the tail, which appears and disappears, depending on the species.
The word "banality" is not familiar to them, and does not fit their description. These little animals are real shepherd dogs. Many people don't take them seriously - but in vain. They know how to insist on their own. Their cartoonish appearance hides a stubborn character.
The history of the origin of the Welsh Corgi breed
Welsh means Welsh. "Corgi" consists of the words "kor" - to collect or combine and "gi" - a dog. So this is a dog from Wales, able to herd cattle. Everyone thinks that there is one breed, but in fact there are two. They were named after their breeding grounds, in honor of the neighboring Welsh counties, whose farmers were engaged in the historical breeding of small format herding dogs. Some from Cardiganshire and others from Pembrokeshire. According to local legends, each of them developed in parallel and independently thanks to a chain of high hills dividing the designated territory. The Pembroke was bred to maneuver and manage the herd. The cardigan is more adapted for security functions, escorting its wards to a fair or market.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi breed is older than the Pembroke. The Celts grew it three thousand years ago. There is no specific information confirming their origin. Many consider them to be relatives of the dachshund, but short legs are not an indicator. Shortening of the limbs is associated with genetic abnormalities with achondroplasia or chondrodystrophy, which does not harm their well-being. These "flaws" have been found in many breeds. If you wish, you can raise a dog the size of a mouse, if you cross together, representatives of the same species - carriers of the corresponding genes. Similarly, the dachshund and some of the basset hounds appeared, but at the same time, with each other, they never interbred.
In order to raise a "mouse dog" you need to have good reasons. In the case of short-legged bloodhounds, such a reason was the need not only to chase the animal to its burrow, but also to follow it inside. Also, the hunter easily kept up with the dog without buying a horse for this. Why did you decide to raise a short-legged shepherd? Some believe that the corgi was a burrowing hunter, but later Welsh shepherds noticed that it was more difficult to butt cows with undersized canines. In addition, looking at his energy and tirelessness, they decided to use him as a shepherdess. As a result, the Welsh Corgi changed his profession.
According to another version, he inherited his short limbs from Scottish shepherd dogs, they are similar in appearance to them. If so, then the small stature was a genetic factor, and not artificially created.
The progenitors of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, which is the oldest of the two types, were the Scottish Shepherd and the Sealyham Terrier. According to the Pembroke, who was born a little later, there are several versions. Some say that he is a direct descendant of the cardigan, others deny this. Some believe that he descended from the northern dogs, the progenitors of the Bruhund. There is also a hypothesis that their descendants were dogs brought by the Flemish weavers Keeshond and Schipperke.
Now, all these stories can only be of interest to scientists. Because the dog breeding of three thousand years ago does not affect the modern one in any way. Perhaps it is better to believe the legend about a little Celtic boy who got lost in the woods collecting brushwood. Trying to find the right way, he found on the trunk of an old fallen tree, two puppies that looked like foxes. They took him to the village. The village old sage said that these are two small horses, which the fairies probably presented as a gift to help the child. Therefore, all corgi have a characteristic pattern on the withers, in the shape of a saddle, for fairy forest dwellers. Of course this story is fiction. Or maybe they really lived in the forest wilderness, it is impossible to establish this. But in a forest area, they look organic.
The ancient origins of the corgi do not affect their modern development. But it was the reason that in 1928, when the breed was officially recognized, crosses between the Cardigan and the Pembroke were allowed. They lasted until 1934, and did not bring anything good to either species. The subtle but very important differences between the two were ignored. Today, after many years of breeders' work, each breed has its own characteristic features. Although a certain similarity remains between them, they can be distinguished from each other not only by the presence or absence of a tail. The Pembroke is smaller and shorter, with a lighter head and pointed ears. The cardigan has rounded ears at the ends.
There is also a difference in character. The Pembroke is more lively and excitable, and the cardigan is more trusting. But in practice, this difference is not so noticeable. After all, the character of a dog depends on his upbringing. All corgis are funny. They are good watchmen. But if a stranger shows friendly feelings, then they sympathize with him too. It is a great pleasure to play with children, showing incredible patience when necessary. Both breeds get along easily with other dogs. There are no problems with cats either. From time to time they use them as toys. And during such games, no one does any harm to anyone.
The differences between them are also manifested in popularity and prevalence. Pembroke is ten times bigger than its fellow. Why is that? The answer to this question lies in the fact that in 1933 one person brought a puppy of this species as a gift to his daughter. How can such an insignificant fact affect the history of the breed? The answer is simple. If a person is Duke George VI, and his daughter Elizabeth, who is destined to take a place on the English throne.
In a kingdom where love for dogs is a national trait, one photo of the princess with her pet "Duki" would be enough for the breed to become popular. But besides, Elizabeth became so attached to these pets that she herself began to breed them. And even bestowed on them the title - "Wensor Corgi". She approached the selection in all seriousness, constantly consulting with the famous English dog handler - Thelma Gray.
This was not a simple whim, but a deliberately done job, combined with other responsibilities that Elizabeth was entrusted with by her position. Now, the queen is not young, and is forced to deal not with dogs, but with the affairs of the state and family, in which not everything is smooth and calm.
To this day, the Pembroke is immensely popular. The poor cardigan was left behind due to the random choice of a loving father who wanted to give his daughter a present. The truth does not particularly bother him. He always had the calmer disposition of a certain philosopher. His fox face, with sly eyes, clearly makes it clear that he feels no worse than his titled cousin. Let the brother say that he is a king dog, but I can wag my tail whenever I want!
All over the world, today, Welsh Corgi are not shepherds, but first of all show dogs. These are pets, although they do not have all the qualities that can be inherent in apartment pets. They are small, but not too small. These are not pocket dogs. Despite their short legs, they have to move a lot. They do not have long, flowing hair and their appearance is not particularly outstanding - hardly anyone would call her an Apollo among dogs. Due to this, outside of England, they were not particularly fashionable. But the one who once acquired a corgi remains faithful to him for life. It's hard not to fall in love with them at first sight. It is necessary to get to know them to the core. Communicating with them, we discover character, with those qualities that are valued above all among dogs.
External standard welsh corgi cardigan and pembroke
A brave short-toed dog, strong build, with adequate demeanor. The height at the withers is not more than 30 cm. In a Pembroke from 25-30 cm. Both of them should weigh no more than 17 kg.
- Head by the standard it bears great resemblance to a fox. The skull is broad and flat between the ears.
- Muzzle pointed proudly towards the nose. The jaws are prominent and strong. Scissor bite.
- Nose - with large nostrils. Only black.
- Eyes round, not very large, clear, lively and attentive. The color is desirable dark, but it can be hazel if it is in harmony with the coat color. Only with the bluebird color, the eyes can be wholly or partially blue.
- Ears the welsh corgi are quite large. Proportional to the size of the dog. Wide at the base, they are located at a great distance from each other.
- Neck - slightly elongated, muscular and well developed.
- Frame - very long especially in relation to such limbs. They were also called yard-long dogs. The Pembroke has a shorter and more compact body. The rib cage is deep, the ribs are rounded.
- Tail reaches the ground or is slightly shorter. Looks like a fox, but does not curve towards the back. In a Pembroke, the tail must be naturally short, otherwise it is docked.
- Front limbs short and strong, elbows close to the body. The forearms are slightly bent, following the shape of the chest. The hind ones are strong, slightly angular. Slightly refined, vertical.
- Paws. The front legs are turned outward. In Pembrokes, the paws are more rounded and flattened, the two front toes should be longer than the outer ones.
- Coat short to medium length with coarse hair. The Pembroke is always average.
- Color various color combinations: red, tricolor, spotted. Various masks can be seen on the head. White color is possible on the legs (not above the belly line), on the muzzle, chest, neck and tip of the tail. There is only one vertical white stripe on the head. Acceptable colors for Pembroke: all shades of red and black and tan with white paws on the chest and neck.
Characteristic features of the behavior of the Welsh Corgi
Pembrokes are more open, and cardigans are dogs that are used to keeping their distance. But both breeds are very kind and gentle. Easily adapt to people. It is easy to live with them anywhere, both in a country house and in an apartment in a metropolis. Very good for living together, but only on condition that you establish your championship while they are still puppies 8-10 weeks old. They need a firm but gentle upbringing.
They have such a character that they dominate others, forcing animals to reckon with them, greatly exceeding their size. Gradually, with the wrong upbringing, they sit on the neck and the owners. From childhood, they get used to doing what they like, ignoring prohibitions and taboos.
The Corgi can command you shamelessly. If he notices that his innocent, affectionate eyes are your weakness, he will begin to use it to the fullest until he completely subdues you. He may be fluffy, cute and funny, but he will cause a lot of problems if he commands you. To properly assign roles, you should teach him the basic rules of behavior and obedience. Often this decision turns into a pleasant surprise. From an uncontrollable stubborn, you can get an obedient pet, quickly absorbing and doing whatever you want.
Description of dog health
This is a healthy breed of dog. Corgis live to be 14 years old. The most common problems are traumatic situations. Therefore, they need to be grown under certain conditions of nutrition and physical activity. The main thing is to never forget about certain features of their constitution. They have a dyschondroplasic structure - a genetic change in the joints. That is, a long elongated body.
To prevent the dogs from injuring their backs, they need to be handled in a certain way. If you took them in your hands, then they put them on the ground very carefully on all paws. Do not quit under any circumstances. They are prohibited from jumping from heights. At puppyhood, they are only taken down from the steps. In no case, they should not be overfed. This threatens to put unnecessary stress on the spine, limbs and heart.
Tips for caring for your Welsh Corgi breed
- Wool. Welsh Corgi are not bathed very often. Basically, they need to be combed out with a slicker. In order not to expose them to "bath procedures" once again, in slushy weather, they are dressed in special overalls.
- Ears clean only when heavily soiled.
- Eyes - do not require special care.
- Teeth. From puppyhood, corgi are taught to clean them.
- Claws as they grow back, they are cut off.
- Feeding all canines can be both ready-made concentrates and natural products. But in any case, food should be of high quality and balanced. When feeding homemade foods, your dog's diet includes more vitamins and minerals.
- Walking. The most important thing is not to forget about physical education. Since historically, these are working dogs, you must definitely load them. Long walks and various outdoor games can be ideal entertainment for corgi and their owners.
Welsh corgi training
Literally from the first days when you got the dog, he needs to make it clear that you are in charge. If you do not neglect training, then the baby will perfectly fit into your life and you will get the perfect family member.
If you already correct behavior, then the general course of obedience cannot solve all the problems that arise. But with such training, the owner learns to control the pet, and he, in turn, will obey him. This is necessary in order to explain the rules of conduct in the city, family and communication with fellows.
To do this, you need to be able to master the necessary commands. But sometimes, this is not easy to do. It is worth a couple of times to follow her lead, and the corgi begins to put itself on the main rung of the hierarchical ladder. In order to explain to the dog who is in charge of the pack, you need to study a lot and diligently, and you should not count on a fantastic result right away.
Interesting facts about the Welsh Corgi dog
The Welsh Corgi was called a yard-long dog. The modern yard is 91.5 cm, but this was not always the case. Earlier, this measure of English length, changed after the accession of the next monarch to the throne, and was the length from the tip of the king's nose to his thumb. The length of the arms of all the monarchs was different, and therefore the yard was also different.
Purchasing a welsh corgi puppy
If it's hard to fall in love with an adult corgi, then the little one just can't help but like it. It seems that these kids have just jumped out of some kind of cartoon. Baby corgi are funny and beautiful in their own way so that it is impossible to look away from them. How not to lose your head because of such huge ears that do not yet know which way to move? And what about those expressive eyes? It seems that here, here he will speak. The funniest thing happens when the kid goes on to fun activities, such as climbing stairs. But in the end, the stubbornness inherent in all corgi wins. One way or another, the obstacle will be overcome.
Before you get yourself a Welsh Corgi, you need to carefully study this breed, its care requirements, and other features. The second stage is contacting professional nurseries. Sometimes breeders have to "subscribe" titled puppy parents from abroad, so you have to shell out a lump sum. But today, the price of corgi can be more than 80,000 rubles.
For more information about the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, see here:
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