A tale spanning three millennia, from Celtic tribes to Viking shores, written in the green hills of Wales and the hearts of warriors.
From the mists of time comes a tale as old as the Celtic stones themselves. The Welsh Corgi's saga spans three thousand years, weaving through the histories of ancient tribes, Viking raids, and royal courts. Here lies the true chronicle of these noble hounds.
It is said that the Cardigan Welsh Corgi arrived in the green hills of Wales over 3,000 years ago, brought by Celtic tribes migrating from Central Europe. Its lineage traces back to the Teckel family—shared with the Dachshund—and in its earliest form, this dog stood between the Teckel and Spitz types.
In those ancient days, the Cardigan played an essential role: walking ahead of cattle herds, clearing the way of threats and leading them to safe pastures. Over time, its work evolved. It began herding from behind and became a skilled drover, guiding livestock from Welsh farms to English markets. During this period, it's believed the breed was crossed with local herding dogs to enhance its versatility.
Thus, the Cardigan became a truly all-purpose companion: herder, guardian, vermin hunter, and loyal friend.
A thousand years ago, Viking invaders and Flemish weavers brought Spitz-type dogs to certain regions of Wales. These were crossed with the native Corgi, giving rise to what we know now as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. In the more isolated regions untouched by these influences, the original bloodlines remained intact—these dogs are the direct ancestors of today's Cardigan Welsh Corgi.
In the late 19th century, as dog shows began to take shape and machines replaced traditional working dogs, many breeds found new life in the world of conformation. The Corgi was slow to capture the public's eye, and it wasn't until the 1920s that the name "Corgi" came into regular use and its history began to be properly recorded.
In 1925, the Corgi was officially recognized by the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom. For a time, both the Pembroke and the Cardigan were registered as a single breed, which allowed for interbreeding. This caused conflict among enthusiasts, as judges often favored one type over the other. Finally, in 1934, the Kennel Club corrected the mistake and recognized them as separate breeds.
"Sturdy, tough, mobile, capable of endurance. Long in proportion to height, terminating in a fox-like brush, set in line with the body. Alert, active, and intelligent. Steady, not shy nor aggressive."
Short to medium, hard-textured, weatherproof, with a good undercoat. Built to withstand the harsh Nordic elements and protect the warrior within.
Any of the above may appear with or without typical white markings on the head, neck, chest, underparts, legs, feet, and tail tip.
The true measure of a Corgi warrior lies not in size, but in spirit. Alert and active, intelligent and steady, these noble hounds possess the courage of berserkers in the body of a companion. Neither shy nor aggressive, they embody the balanced nature of the ancient Norse—ready for adventure, yet gentle with their clan.
One of the most influential early Cardigans was Bob Llwyd, a red and white dog born in 1917 from unregistered parents. Though never formally registered himself, he became a foundational sire for the breed, his bloodline flowing through generations of champions.
His son, Ch. Golden Arrow, born in 1928, became the breed's first official champion. This golden warrior set the standard for all who would follow, proving that the ancient bloodlines could shine in the modern world.
While the Pembroke rose to fame through its royal connections, the Cardigan quietly continued along its path—steadfast and unchanged—among the hills and valleys where it was born. Today, its calm dignity, steady heart, and ancient heritage continue to win hearts around the world.
At Skogland, we honor this ancient lineage. Our Corgis carry within them the spirit of those first Celtic companions, the courage of Viking warriors, and the nobility of champions. Each puppy born in our halls is a living link to this magnificent heritage.