The corgi has had a sudden surge in popularity in Jubilee year as the country goes crazy for all things royal
The Queen is well known for her love of animals, especially horses and dogs, and in her Diamond Jubilee year it seems the British public are keen to follow every royal fashion. According to the Kennel Club The Queen’s favourite breed of dog – the corgi – has seen a boost in popularity in 2012.
Her Majesty is often spotted with a few cuddly corgis waddling along in her wake – the official website of the British Monarchy states that The Queen owns three: Monty, Willow and Holly. She has owned more than 30 corgis during her reign, starting with Susan who was a present for her 18th birthday in 1944.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, The Queen’s preferred breed, is one of 29 native dogs considered vulnerable to disappearing because fewer than 300 puppies are registered a year. Their popularity rose by a third this year, however, which is a wonderful tribute to her Majesty’s popularity.
The breed might look light a lapdog but the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is an intelligent herding dog, although they make excellent companions and like to be part of family life. The breed was introduced to the Royal Family in 1933 by The Queen’s father, King George VI, when he bought a Corgi called Dookie from a local kennels.
Other members of the Royal Family own dogs of various breeds. The Duchess of Cornwall owns two Jack Russell terriers, Tosca and Rosie, while The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were recently given a cocker spaniel puppy named Lupo.
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