Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi comes from Pembrokeshire in Wales, where it drove cattle by nipping at their heels, its small size helping it dodge their kicks.

It became famous as Queen Elizabeth II's favourite dog; she owned dozens over her lifetime.

Cheerful, curious and very attached to its family, the Corgi is a true working dog in a small body. It is watchful, barks readily and may try to 'herd' children.

Clever and food-loving, it learns quickly with rewards but can be stubborn.

Its long back and short legs expose it to disc herniation; avoid repeated jumping off sofas and lots of stairs. Degenerative myelopathy and hip dysplasia are also reported.

Excess weight greatly worsens back problems.

The Corgi is very greedy and gains weight easily. Measure portions precisely and limit treats.

A lean Corgi protects its back and joints.

It needs about an hour of daily activity: walks, games, obedience and even adapted agility.

Favour steady exercise over jumping and sudden descents.

In summer, walk it early and late and keep it cool. It adapts well to apartments if it gets enough exercise; beware of stairs in buildings without a lift, which are bad for its back.

Its double coat sheds a lot, especially during moults. Brushing twice a week, more during the moult, is enough.

Keep an eye on its nails and teeth.