What’s the difference between the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi?
The two Corgis are similar in appearance to a casual observer, but do have distinct characteristics. The quickest way to distinguish Pembroke Welsh Corgis from their cousins, Cardigans, is to check out the hindquarters: Cardigans have tails; Pembrokes do not.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is likely the older of the two breeds, but whether the Cardigan is an ancestor of the Pembroke, or whether the breeds evolved separately from very different canine ancestry is debatable. Whatever the case, the Pembroke is shorter and trimmer. He possesses a shorter body and straighter, lighter-boned legs than his northern cousin, and has upright ears pointed at the tip and a sharp muzzle contributing to a “foxlike” face. The Cardigan is sturdier in body and head, with larger, more rounded ears sitting lower on the head. The Cardigan also sports a long, bushy tail. The two Corgis share a heritage of farm duties, but the Pembroke is said to be livelier and busier.