Description of a Welsh Corgi.

The Welsh Corgi is a small breed of dog 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 (25 to 30 cm) 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. 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. Historically, the Pembroke was a breed with a natural bob tail (very short tail). Due to the advent of docking, the trait was not aggressively pursued, with breeders focusing instead on other characteristics, and the tail artificially shortened if need be. Given that some countries are now banning docking, breeders are again attempting to select for dogs with the genes for natural bob tails. The coats of both breeds come in a variety of colors, although there are some differences between the breeds.

The Pembroke remains the more common variety. Outside Wales, the breed has been made popular by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, who keeps at least four at all times. Corgis make wonderful companions.