The Royal Corgis

In the realm of the British monarchy, one particular breed of dog enjoys a special place in the hearts of both the royal family and the people of Britain – the Corgi. These little herding dogs have been an integral part of the royal household for decades, particularly favored by Queen Elizabeth II. With their spirited personalities, unique appearance, and long-standing association with the monarchy, the Royal Corgis have captivated the world.

The association between the British royal family and Corgis began in the early 1930s when King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II, acquired a Pembroke Welsh Corgi called Dookie. Queen Elizabeth II herself received her first Corgi, named Dookie II, on her 18th birthday, and since then, she has gone on to own over 30 Corgis. Throughout the years, the Queen’s love for these loyal companions has been evident, and they have become a symbol of her reign.

One of the most famous Corgis in recent memory was Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved dog, named Monty. Monty rose to fame during the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics when he starred alongside James Bond, played by Daniel Craig, in a short film. The Queen’s fondness for her Corgis was clearly at the forefront of that memorable moment, highlighting their special place in her life and the British public’s imagination.

The breed’s distinctive physical appearance has also contributed to their popularity. Corgis are small with sturdy bodies, short legs, and trusty ears that can perk up or fold over, giving them an endearing fox-like appearance. Their coats come in a variety of colors, with the most common being red, sable, and tri-color, which is a mix of white, black, and brown. These adorable features make them instantly recognizable and well-loved by the public.

Apart from their charming looks, Corgis possess intelligence, agility, and a strong herding instinct. Originally bred for herding livestock, these dogs have retained their exceptional qualities throughout the years. Their herding instincts often manifest through their behavior, as they may nip at people’s heels or attempt to round up children or even other pets. However, with proper training, Corgis can easily adapt to family life and become affectionate, loyal companions.

The Queen’s passion for the breed has been so influential that Corgis have been dubbed the “Royal Corgis,” distinguishing them from other Corgi owners. The Queen has even established her own line of Corgis, known as the “Dorgis,” a crossbreed between Corgis and Dachshunds. This exclusive lineage has added to the regal connection and has made the demand for Corgis and Dorgis skyrocket.

In recent years, the presence of the Royal Corgis has diminished. The last of Queen Elizabeth II’s Corgis, Willow, passed away in 2018, marking the end of an era. However, the legacy of the Royal Corgis lives on through documentaries, books, and various merchandise.

The story of the Royal Corgis is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and animals. It also highlights the power of animals to bring joy, laughter, and companionship, even to those from the highest echelons of society.

While the Royal Corgis may no longer be a daily sight in the royal palaces, their influence continues to be felt, and the memories they left are cherished by both the Queen and the British public. The Corgis have taken their rightful place in the history of the British monarchy and will forever be fondly remembered as the treasured companions of Queen Elizabeth II.