The American Kennel Club says that the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a strong, athletic, and lively little herder who is affectionate and companionable without being needy.

Originally bred to herd cattle, sheep, and horses, the Pembroke is easy to train and willing to learn. It is also great with children and other pets. So although they are still used as working dogs, these characteristics have gained them the reputation of family pets. Happy, loving, and intelligent, these doggos can also be a little stubborn or independent at times. Simply speaking, they like to think for themselves.

Interestingly, one Welsh legend has it that the fairies and elves of Wales used the Pembroke Welsh Corgi for things like pulling fairy coaches, working their fairy cattle, and serving as the steed for fairy warriors. Look closely, the lore says, even today you can see the marks of the “fairy saddle” over the shoulders on the Pembroke’s coat.

However, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi are two very different breeds. First, the obvious: the Cardigan's origins trace back to Cardiganshire and the Pembroke's to Pembrokeshire. And you can easily tell them apart if you know what to look for. The American Kennel Club points out that the Cardigan has a tail, while the Pembroke’s is docked close to his body. The Pembroke's is short and his ears are pointed, while the Cardigan’s are more rounded at the tips.