|
"Small Dog Breed Catalog"
Small Dog Breed Catalog: Page 37
of 56
Pembroke Welsh Corgi Dog Breed
This dog breed is distinguished from the very similar looking Cardigan
Welsh Corgi, by his docked tail. The attractive face and head
resembles that of a fox. His eyes are oval, his eyes dark, and the
ears are erect and medium sized with rounded points. The neck is
fairly long for this dog's small size, as well as slightly arched and
clean. The ribs are slightly egg-shaped and moderately long with a
deep chest, not too low to the ground. The forelegs are short with
forearms turning inward slightly so that the front is not totally
straight. His coat is double and medium in length, with a noticeable
ruff; hair straight and at times wavy but not wiry or fluffy. The
Pembroke's color can range in colors of red, sable, fawn, black and
tan, and may also contain white.
Size: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a medium-sized, big boned dog who
is moderately long and low standing. His height is only about ten to
twelve inches tall and ideally he will weigh in at approximately 27
pounds. The female should be about two pounds lighter.
Health: The Pembroke has a long life span that can live into the
double-digit years. Grooming needs are minimal, but as an an owner of
this breed you must ensure a proper diet and guard against excess
because when overweight, Corgi's are prone to serious back problems.
Too much stair climbing and high impact exercises can also lead to
injury. However, the most common medical problems you may encounter
with this dog are eye problems, as they are the most common
complications, with PRA, lens luxation, and secondary glaucoma all
found in this breed. Hip dysplasia is also known, and though its
effects seem less debilitating in the Corgi, it is of course still
highly undesirable. Cervical disc (neck) and back problems are known,
as is epilepsy. All breeders must screen for hips and eyes
(including retinal dysplasia). If properly fed and taken care of,
Pembroke Welsh Corgi's can live healthy up to 14 years.
Copyright 2006 by Jay Jennings. All rights reserved.
|