To the Pop culture, a pair of short legs, coupled with a big smile and energy that just does not seem to end sounds quite familiar, isn’t it? You guessed it right! We are talking about the Pembroke Welsh Corgis, the breed that has managed to capture hearts worldwide with their endearing stature. From being Queen Elizabeth’s preferred companions to featuring in animated movies, these little creatures have certainly managed to leave a paw print in society. But the often-asked question remains– is owning a Pembroke Welsh Corgi challenging?
Peppy, smart, and assuredly cute, Pembroke Welsh Corgi surprises everyone with their high energy level, considering their not so athletic frame. This breed’s roots trace back to Pembrokeshire in Wales, where early breeders developed these diligent puppies to herd cattle and horses. Despite their lovable appearance, one must understand that caring for these dogs transcends their irresistible visual appeal.
Now, let’s dive into understanding the notorious side of these Queen’s beasties.
Corgis have an indomitable spirit, a lot of which can be attributed to their herding instinct. For example, Corgis naturally love being in control of their surroundings. Needless to say, they can be relentless about getting their way. As adorable as it sounds, an untrained Corgi might use its intelligence in ways you did not quite imagine. Ever seen a Corgi have its stubborn way and ignore your plea for obedience? Or nipping at the heels of unaware guests as an attempt to herd them? Certainly not something most owners sign up for, is it?
However, before we paint a continuously challenging scenario, let’s address the other side of the coin – these habits are intrinsically tied to the Corgi’s herding background and not a sign of hostile behavior. So, if you are planning to invite a Corgi into your family, a bit of understanding about their natural instincts, along with proper training, can work wonders in turning this enthusiastic ball of energy into a happy and obedient companion.
Another point to consider– Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a vocal breed. They love expressing their thoughts with a bark or two, or sometimes even a full-blown conversation– much to the surprise of many new owners. While it’s charming to hear their “Corgi-speak” initially, constant barking might turn into an issue without behavioral training. Besides, being highly energetic, they also demand a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Without this, they tend to turn their excess energy into destructive behavior.
Although it seems like a lot to handle, most of these traits can be curbed with early training and socialization. Rest assured, these loyal pooches are innately eager to please their owners, which makes their training a fairly achievable mission. Being one of the smartest dog breeds, they pick up new rules quickly and are willing to adapt with the right guidance and positive reinforcement.
Being a responsible Corgi parent also means taking good care of their overall health. Their unique physique comes with its own set of health challenges. For instance, their long back and short legs make them prone to conditions like intervertebral disc disease, which affects the spine, leading to pain and possible paralysis. Regular screening for such conditions and maintaining a healthy weight can go a long way in ensuring your furry friend lives a sound life.
All these factors might lead you to believe that owning a Corgi is a daunting task. However, ask any Corgi parent, and they will gleefully tell you how these challenges are overshadowed by the joy of having a Corgi in their lives.
Their infectious cheerfulness, bouts of ‘Corgi crazies’ (random running fits because – why not?), and irresistible charm more than make up for the disciplining needs. Despite their Toblerone-like structure and ‘small dog syndrome,’ they flaunt a larger-than-life persona that never fails to bring a smile to anyone who crosses their path.
So, when we address the question – is Pembroke Welsh Corgi a difficult dog? – it boils down to your perception and readiness to understand this adorable breed. They can be a handful but are also remarkably rewarding. Your willingness to invest time, love, patience, and confidence to train them will determine your Corgi owning experience.
Remember, dealing with a Corgi’s headstrong nature and barking fits might be challenging. However, having an intelligent, loving, and spirited Corgi offering a lifetime of devotion and furry cuddles perfectly makes up for the rollercoaster journey you embark on in the world of Corgi parenting.
In conclusion, nurturing a Pembroke Welsh Corgi can pose some difficulties, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Ultimately, understanding their nature, providing training, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can shape your experience with this fluffy companion and lead you to cherish the joyous Corgi-ful life!