How Many Corgis Did the Queen Have Throughout Her Reign

The Queen's love for corgis is the stuff of legend, and it's no secret that she was a devoted owner to many furry friends throughout her reign. She first got her first corgi, Susan, in 1944.

The Queen's fondness for corgis began when she was just a young princess, and it's said that she was given a Pembroke Welsh Corgi as a birthday present. This marked the beginning of a lifelong love affair with the breed.

Over the course of her reign, the Queen went on to own more than 30 corgis, each with its own unique personality and quirks.

A unique perspective: What Happened to the Queen's Corgis

The Queen's love for Pembroke Welsh Corgis started long before Susan, her beloved first Pembroke Welsh Corgi. In 1933, breeder Thelma Gray brought a litter of puppies to show the then-Duke of York, the future George VI, and his family.

A few years later, Gray gave the royal family another Pembroke Welsh Corgi called Jane. This was the second time the royal family had a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, after Dookie, who had passed away.

Susan became the first Pembroke Welsh Corgi to belong solely to Elizabeth, and she was also the foundation of a royal breeding program. This program was personally overseen by the Queen.

The Queen's breeding program was so successful that two of Susan's final pups, Holly and Willow, appear to have been the 14th generation of her descendants. That's a remarkable genetic legacy.

The Queen's Pembrokes were cared for by Bill and Nancy Fenwick, who were not only the head gamekeeper and his wife but also the caretakers of the Pembrokes. Nancy even trained the dogs to go up the stairs.

The Queen's love for her Pembrokes was so great that she called on prominent breeders to help her continue her lines. This included breeders like Gray, Maureen Johnston, Ally Boughton, and others.

A unique perspective: Cardigan Welsh Corgi Breeders

The Queen's love for corgis is well-documented, but did you know that corgis have been a beloved breed for centuries? They originated in Wales, where they were bred to herd cattle and horses.

Corgis are known for their short stature, but they have a big personality and are often described as intelligent, loyal, and affectionate. In fact, they are one of the most popular breeds in the world.

The Queen's favorite breed is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, which is a smaller version of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. She has owned more than 30 corgis during her reign, with some sources estimating that she has had as many as 32.

Corgis are prone to obesity, which can lead to health problems, so it's essential to keep them active and engaged. The Queen's corgis have been known to get regular exercise and playtime.

The average lifespan of a corgi is 12-14 years, which means they are a long-term companion. With proper care and attention, corgis can thrive and become a beloved member of the family.

Explore further: The Names of the Queen's Corgis

The Queen's love for corgis is well-documented, and it's no surprise that she's had more than her fair share of these adorable dogs throughout her reign. The Queen's first corgi, Susan, was a gift from her husband, Prince Philip, in 1944.

For another approach, see: Queen Elizabeth's Corgis

The Queen's favorite breed of corgi is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, which was introduced to the royal family by her father, King George VI. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known for its short stature and long body.

The Queen's corgis have been a constant presence in her life, and she's had at least 30 of them during her reign. Some of her corgis have even been bred to be smaller than average, a trait that's become a hallmark of the royal corgi.

The Queen's love for corgis is not just about their physical characteristics, but also about their loyalty and affection towards her. Her corgis have been known to follow her everywhere, even to official events.