Where Are Corgis From and Their Origins

Corgis originated in Wales, a country that's part of the United Kingdom.

Their ancestors were herding dogs that were bred to help farmers with their livestock.

The earliest known ancestors of corgis date back to the 10th century in Wales.

They were small to medium-sized dogs that were perfect for herding cattle and horses.

The name "corgi" is derived from the Welsh language, with "cor" meaning dwarf and "gi" meaning dog.

This name makes sense, given the breed's short stature.

Corgis were highly valued by the Welsh people for their intelligence and work ethic.

They were often given as gifts to royalty and nobility.

For another approach, see: Welsh Corgi Dog Breed

The breed has experienced a significant surge in popularity, thanks in part to Queen Elizabeth II's influence.

New puppy registrations jumped by 56 per cent in the year she was gifted her first corgi.

In 2022, the year marking the monarch's Platinum Jubilee, Kennel Club registrations of Pembroke corgis reached a thirty year high.

Sadly, the Cardigan corgi remains on the Kennel Club's list of vulnerable native breeds, meaning it's in danger of disappearing from the British Isles.

A number of corgis have gained a huge following on social media, with nearly two million followers between them.

Both the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgi are ancient breeds, possibly dating back to the 10th century.

The origins of the word corgi are debated, but many sources claim it's a combination of two Welsh words that meant "dwarf" and "dog".

In the 1850s, you could find Corgis on almost every farm in Wales, where they were used to herd smaller livestock due to the rough terrain and sparse vegetation.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was influenced by the spitz breed, and had a naturally docked tail, while the Cardigan Welsh Corgi was influenced by the teckel breed and had a long tail.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi may be older than the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

The Corgi's original purpose was to herd livestock, but when farmers began raising sheep in fenced pastures, the Corgi's role was eliminated.

In the 1920s, the Kennel Club recognized Corgis as a breed, and for a time, Pembrokes and Cardigans were bred together.

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The corgi breed has a rich history that's quite fascinating. Originally, corgis were prized for their hardiness and ability to withstand long, cold days working outside on the farmsteads of West Wales.

They were introduced to Wales by the Vikings during their raids of Britain, starting in the 8th century. This ancient Scandinavian breed is thought to be the primary ancestor of the modern corgi.

Welsh farmers valued the dogs for their intelligence and skills as cattle herders. The name "corgi" is a variation on the Welsh, Ci Corrach (Dwarf Dog), which refers to their small size.

Corgis were so industrious that they did everything on the farm but wait on tables. They herded livestock by nipping at their heels, while ducking wayward kicks from irritated members.