Welsh Corgi.

Welsh Corgi. Welsh Corgi, generic name for two breeds of herding dogs bred for centuries in Wales, the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi. The Pembroke dates from the early 12th century, the Cardigan even earlier; the latter belongs to the same family as the dachshund. These small dogs (corgi is Welsh for "dwarf dog") were used to flush out game, drive cattle, and guard households. For such duties their speed, agility, and hardiness are admirably suited. The Cardigan Welsh corgi is well muscled and boned, with a long body set low on short, strong legs; the usual height is about 30 cm (about 12 in) and the length from nose to tip of tail varies from 91 to 112 cm (36 to 44 in). The medium-length coat is dense and harsh, affording protection from weather. Colors may be red, sable, brindle, or black, and generally there are white markings. The tail resembles a fox's brush; the face, too, is foxlike. The Pembroke Welsh corgi is related to such breeds as the Schipperke and Keeshond. In earlier times Pembrokes and Cardigans were markedly different. With crossbreeding (a practice now discouraged) they grew more similar, although the modern Pembroke still differs from the Cardigan in several respects. The Pembroke is shorter and stockier, its legs straighter; it stands 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 in) and weighs about 11 to 14 kg (about 25 to 30 lb). The ears are pointed, in contrast to the Cardigan's more rounded ears. The tail is docked. In temperament, the Pembroke is a more excitable dog, but both are affectionate, intelligent, alert pets. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.