Breed Bio: Corgi

Affectionate, Loyal and Highly Intelligent, the Corgi is best known as a cattle herding dog, a job the breed has excelled at for centuries dating back to medieval times.

The Corgi's history is somewhat of a mystery. While the breed's precise lineage is unknown, it is widely believed these small cattle dogs descended from a mix of the Schipperke, Pomeranian and the Swedish Vallhund, a Spitz-like breed well regarded for its herding capabilities.

The Corgi arrived in Wales in 1107, being brought to its new homeland by weavers immigrating from Flanders, a region that is now part of northern Belgium. Invited to Britain by King Henry I, the carpet makers sought to replicate their former lives in their new homeland, bringing their beloved Corgis along for the journey.

Once in Britain, the Corgi thrived as a working dog. The breed's natural agility combined with their short build made them the perfect heeler - a herding dog known for nipping at the heels of its subordinates. This lack of height would protect them from wayward hooves, allowing them to nip at the heels of cattle and sheep all across the British Countryside.

While you may not be surprised to learn the Corgi is a highly decorated champion in herding competition, the breed has utilized its intelligence and athletic gifts in many other pursuits as well.

A notoriously hard-working and driven dog, the Corgi excels in a wide variety of dog sports including obedience and agility, while also being a winning and well-regarded show dog. A Corgi has even served as a corporate mascot. During the early years of Amazon, a Corgi named Rufus would walk the halls of Amazon HQ, herding employees into meetings. Many believe this contributed to Amazon's dog-friendly corporate culture, something that continues to this day. Thanks, Rufus!

All in all, the Corgi has worn a lot of hats over the years - and we're sure they looked cute in all of them! A World-class herding dog, a show dog, agility champion, corporate mascot, and even a brief stint as a K-9 Officer! The breed continues to rise in popularity, coming in as the 13th-most popular breed recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Today, the modern-day Welsh Corgi is found in two similar yet different breeds. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has pointy ears and no tail, while the Cardigan Welsh Corgi has rounded ears and a tail. Both variations of the Welsh Corgi are popular as a pet, beloved for their cheery disposition and playful personality.