Pembroke Welsh corgi, breed of short-legged, hardy working dog thought to have been introduced into South Wales by Flemish immigrants in the early 12th cent. It stands from 10 to 12 in. (25.4–30.5 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs from 18 to 24 lb (8.2–10.9 kg). Its dense, straight, medium-length coat may be solid red, sable, fawn, or black and tan, or any of these colors marked with white on the neck, chest, and legs. Although originally of entirely separate stock and markedly different appearance, the Pembroke and the Cardigan Welsh corgi have grown very close in type due to the crossing of the breeds begun in the early 19th cent. The Pembroke can be distinguished from the Cardigan by its shorter body and its stubby tail. Originally bred for herding cattle and horses, today the Pembroke is gaining popularity as a house pet. See dog.
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