WELSH CORGI |
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The Welsh corgi (pronounced /ˈkɔrɡi/) is a small type of herding dog that originated in Wales. Two distinct breeds are recognized: the Pembroke Welsh corgi and the Cardigan Welsh corgi, with the Pembroke being the more common. Corgis are healthy dogs, living into their early or middle teens; however, both do suffer from a few hereditary diseases. The most famous Welsh corgis were perhaps those of Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, who kept at least four corgis. The derivation of "corgi" is not exactly known, though there are two popular theories about the word's origin. The primary theory is that "corgi" is from Welsh cor gi (Welsh pronunciation: [kɔrɡi]) – cor, "dwarf" and ci ([kiː]), "dog". Other sources, however, attribute the origin of "corgi" to a variation of cur ("watch dog") and ci ("dog"). [2][citation needed] The usual plural in English is corgis. However, the OED also gives corgwn as an alternative, which is the Welsh plural (pronounced [kɔrɡun]). The history of the corgi, like that of most dog breeds, is difficult to trace and authenticate. There is mention in an 11th century manuscript of a Welsh cattle dog, though there is no evidence about whether this is the corgi or an ancestor.[3] Corgis are herding dogs and perform their duties by nipping at the heels; the dog's low stature allows it to avoid being kicked in the process.[4] As herding dogs, corgis work livestock differently than other breeds. Instead of gathering the cattle the way a Collie would, by running around the livestock, corgis drive the herd forward by nipping at their heels and working them from behind in semicircles. Seldom giving ground, if an animal should turn and charge, the corgi will bite its nose, causing it to turn and rejoin the herd.[2] Although they specialize in herding cattle, corgis are also used to herd sheep and Welsh ponies.[3] They are also one of the few breeds able to herd geese. Welsh corgis also guarded children and were beloved pets.[2] Loyal, alert, fun-loving, even-tempered and confident, corgis have all the qualities of a good family dog.[3] Welsh folklore says the corgi is the preferred mount of fairy warriors.[5] There is also a folk legend that says corgis were a gift from the woodland fairies, and that the breed's markings were left on its coat by fairy harnesses and saddles.[2] Corgis often have a marking, a white stripe, that runs from the nose, through the eyes, and up into the forehead, this marking is referred to as their blaze. There are two breeds of Welsh corgis, the Cardigan and the Pembroke, each named for the counties in Wales where they originated. The only difference to those unfamiliar with the breed often appears to be that the Cardigan Welsh co.. to get more information visit
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