21 Facts About Corgis That Prove They’re the Royals of the Dog World
Corgis are like little clouds of happiness with legs that are just a bit too short.
Known for their adorable butts (don’t lie, you’ve noticed), these iconic herding dogs have charmed their way into hearts worldwide.
But there’s more to Corgis than just their Instagram-worthy looks. Here are 21 detailed facts about Corgis, from their royal connections to their herding instincts.
1. There Are Two Types of Corgis
Corgis come in two distinct breeds:
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis: The ones without tails (usually) and the ones Queen Elizabeth II adored.
- Cardigan Welsh Corgis: Slightly larger, with long, bushy tails and a more fox-like appearance.
Fun fact: Pembrokes and Cardigans were considered the same breed until the 1930s!
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Join The Club Today! 🐾2. They’re an Ancient Breed
Corgis have been around for over 1,000 years, originally bred in Wales as herding dogs. Legend has it, fairies used them to pull their carriages, leaving marks on their coats that look like “fairy saddles.” Adorable, right?
3. They’re Herding Experts
Don’t let their size fool you—Corgis are natural herders. Their short stature makes them perfect for nipping at the heels of cattle without getting kicked. Even today, many Corgis instinctively try to herd their owners or other pets. Got a Corgi? You’ve probably been herded to the kitchen more than once.

4. They’re Built for the Job
Corgis’ long, low bodies aren’t just cute—they’re designed for herding. Their low center of gravity gives them agility and stability, making them ideal for darting around livestock. Plus, those big ears help them stay alert.
5. Queen Elizabeth II Made Them Famous
You can’t talk about Corgis without mentioning Queen Elizabeth II. She got her first Corgi, Dookie, in 1933 and owned more than 30 throughout her life. Her love for Pembrokes turned them into one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world.

6. They’re Surprisingly Athletic
Sure, they look like little sausages with legs, but Corgis are active dogs. They excel in agility, obedience, and even dog sports like flyball. Don’t underestimate their speed and stamina!
7. Corgi Butts Are Internet Famous
Let’s not beat around the bush: Corgis have iconic butts. Their fluffy, heart-shaped rumps are so adored, there are entire Instagram accounts dedicated to them. Bonus: Their gait gives them a signature “wiggle” that’s impossible not to love.

8. They Shed. A Lot.
Prepare for fur. Lots of it. Corgis have a double coat, which means they shed year-round and blow their coat twice a year. Regular brushing is a must if you want to keep your furniture fur-free (or as close as possible).
9. They’re Big Dogs in Small Packages
Corgis have huge personalities packed into their tiny frames. They’re confident, bold, and often act like they’re the boss of the household. (Spoiler: They probably are.)

10. They’re Great With Kids
Corgis are excellent family dogs. They’re playful, protective, and gentle with children. Just be mindful of their herding instincts—they might try to “round up” the kiddos during playtime.
11. They’re Incredibly Smart
Corgis rank high on the list of smartest dog breeds. They’re quick learners and thrive on mental stimulation. Training them is usually a breeze—just make sure you keep it fun and varied to hold their attention.

12. They’re Natural Comedians
Corgis are goofy by nature. Whether it’s their expressive faces, silly antics, or zoomies around the house, they’re guaranteed to keep you laughing. Who needs Netflix when you have a Corgi?
13. They Bark. A Lot.
Corgis are vocal dogs. They’ll bark at strangers, squirrels, leaves, and sometimes just for the fun of it. If you live in an apartment, this might be something to consider. The good news? Their bark is often part of their charm.

14. They Have Unique Coat Colors
While most people think of the classic red-and-white Pembroke, Corgis come in various coat colors, including sable, fawn, black and tan, and even blue merle (for Cardigans). Each color adds a little extra flair to their already irresistible look.
15. They’re Surprisingly Durable
Despite their short legs, Corgis are sturdy little dogs. Their compact, muscular bodies make them great for outdoor adventures, though you should avoid activities that could strain their backs, like jumping off furniture.

16. Corgis Are Born with Tails
Here’s a fun fact: Pembroke Corgis are born with tails, but breeders traditionally dock them to meet breed standards. Cardigans, on the other hand, keep their natural tails.
17. They’re Easy to Groom
Corgis’ double coats may shed a lot, but they’re low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Regular brushing, an occasional bath, and nail trims are all they need to stay fabulous.

18. They Thrive on Routine
Corgis are creatures of habit. They love having a routine, whether it’s mealtime, walks, or playtime. A well-structured day keeps them happy and balanced.
19. They Can Be Stubborn
Corgis are independent thinkers, which can sometimes translate to stubbornness. Training requires consistency and patience, but their eagerness to please usually wins out.

20. They’re Natural Watchdogs
Corgis are protective by nature, and their alertness makes them great watchdogs. They’ll let you know if someone’s at the door (or if the neighbor’s cat is trespassing).
21. They’re Long-Lived
Corgis typically live 12–15 years, meaning you’ll have over a decade of wiggles, barks, and cuddles with these lovable little herders.

FAQs About Corgis
Are Corgis good for first-time dog owners?
Yes! Corgis are intelligent, adaptable, and great for families or individuals. Just be prepared for their shedding and energy needs.
Do Corgis require a lot of exercise?
Corgis are active dogs who need daily exercise, but they don’t require hours of running. A couple of good walks and some playtime will keep them happy.
Are Corgis prone to health issues?
Like all breeds, Corgis have some potential health risks, including back problems (due to their long bodies) and hip dysplasia. Regular vet checkups and maintaining a healthy weight are essential.
Do Corgis get along with other pets?
Yes, they usually get along well with other dogs and even cats, especially if they’re socialized early.

Conclusion
Corgis aren’t just cute—they’re smart, loyal, and full of personality. From their royal history to their herding instincts and goofy antics, they’re the total package.
Whether you’re looking for a family dog, a hiking buddy, or a cuddle companion, Corgis deliver on all fronts.
Just be ready for lots of fur and a whole lot of love. 🐾

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉