Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, is known for her love of corgis. But have you ever wondered what type of corgi she actually had? Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of royal corgis and uncover the breed that stole the queen’s heart.
From her first corgi, Susan, to the latest additions to her furry family, Queen Elizabeth II’s corgis have held a special place in her heart. But what type of corgi did she choose as her loyal companions? Let’s find out!
Key Takeaways:
- Queen Elizabeth II’s love for corgis began with Susan, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi given to her as a gift.
- The queen owned more than 30 corgis throughout her lifetime, making her the most famous Pembroke Welsh Corgi owner in history.
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis had been a part of the royal family before Queen Elizabeth II, and she continued the breeding program started by her father.
- The queen’s breeding program focused on maintaining the genetic legacy of Susan, ensuring that all of her corgis were descendants of the original foundation dog.
- Following Queen Elizabeth II’s death, her corgis will live with Prince Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, continuing their legacy in the royal family.
The Royal Pembroke Welsh Corgi History
Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a long-standing history within the royal family of England. Even before Queen Elizabeth II, these delightful dogs held a special place in the hearts of the monarchy.
In 1933, breeder Thelma Gray presented a litter of adorable puppies to the then-Duke of York and his family, who would later become King George VI. Selecting a pup named Dookie, the royal family welcomed the first Pembroke Welsh Corgi into their home. Jane, another charming corgi, soon joined the family as well.
Princess Elizabeth, now Queen Elizabeth II, received her first Pembroke Welsh Corgi in 1944. This beloved dog, named Susan, became the cornerstone of the queen’s breeding program. To ensure the continuation of her royal corgi lines, Queen Elizabeth II enlisted the help of renowned breeders, resulting in a broad range of corgi varieties within the royal family.
Continuing the proud legacy of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Queen Elizabeth II’s passion for these dogs has deeply influenced their history and significance in the royal household.
| Varieties | Description |
|---|---|
| Tricolor Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Coat consists of black, tan, and white markings |
| Sable Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Rich red or fawn color with darker shading |
| Red Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Coat is a vibrant red shade |
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed within the royal family encompasses various varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of these notable varieties include:
- Tricolor Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Featuring striking black, tan, and white markings, these corgis showcase a distinct coat pattern.
- Sable Pembroke Welsh Corgi: With a rich red or fawn color accompanied by darker shading, these corgis exude a charming elegance.
- Red Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Known for their vibrant red coats, these corgis display a bold and eye-catching appearance.
Queen Elizabeth II’s dedication to preserving the heritage of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi led to the establishment of a diverse lineage within the royal family. Through careful breeding and collaboration with expert breeders, she ensured the continued legacy and distinctiveness of her beloved royal corgis.
The Queen’s Breeding Program
Queen Elizabeth II’s dedication to the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed extended beyond mere ownership. She personally oversaw a meticulous breeding program at Windsor Castle, ensuring the preservation of the monarchical corgis. Purebred puppies born from this program proudly carried the kennel name “Windsor” as a mark of royal lineage. This breeding program was shrouded in secrecy, with breeders held to utmost confidentiality.
The objective of the program was to maintain the genetic legacy of Susan, Queen Elizabeth II’s first corgi and the foundation of her beloved corgi breed. The queen’s commitment to preserving the lineage of her canine companions ensured that all of her corgis were direct descendants of Susan, solidifying their connection to the queen’s remarkable reign.
Throughout the queen’s breeding program, the focus was not solely on upholding purebred standards; it was an endeavor to safeguard the spirit and character cherished by Queen Elizabeth II in her corgis. Their distinctive personalities, loyalty, and vivacity became celebrated traits synonymous with the queen’s corgis.
The Queen’s Caretakers
Ensuring the well-being and happiness of Queen Elizabeth II’s beloved corgis was entrusted to Bill and Nancy Fenwick. As Windsor’s head gamekeeper, Bill Fenwick played a vital role in coordinating the care and management of the royal corgis. Nancy Fenwick, on the other hand, was responsible for the day-to-day nurturing and training of these cherished dogs.
Nancy’s utmost dedication encompassed feeding, exercising, and grooming the corgis, as well as assisting with the meticulous breeding program. Her role was indispensable, and her expertise in maintaining the health and happiness of the royal corgis was unparalleled.
Such was the significance of Nancy Fenwick’s contributions that even Queen Elizabeth herself attended her memorial service, a testament to the profound impact she had on the monarch and her beloved pets. It is truly extraordinary for the Queen to attend staff funerals, highlighting the genuine affection and deep bond fostered between Queen Elizabeth and her loyal caretaker.
The End of an Era
When Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother passed away in 2002, it marked the end of an era for the breeding program of royal corgis. Throughout Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, the royal corgis had been an integral part of the royal family, capturing hearts around the world. However, after the passing of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, the breeding program for royal corgis came to a halt.
One significant moment in the decline of the breeding program came in 2012 when Monty Roberts, the Queen’s equine advisor, inquired about the breeding of Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Queen Elizabeth II responded that she no longer wished to have any more young dogs and leave them behind. This decision signaled a significant shift in the royal corgi history, as it marked the end of the breeding program.
Despite the end of the program, the legacy of the royal corgis continues through the descendants of Susan, the foundation corgi. These descendants serve as a lasting reminder of the cherished companions that brought joy to Queen Elizabeth II’s life and the royal family as a whole.
While the breeding program may have come to a close, the impact of the royal corgis on the history of the British monarchy and the hearts of people worldwide remains indelible.
The Royal Pembroke Today
After a hiatus without any full-bred corgis, Queen Elizabeth II has rekindled her love for the breed. In 2021, she welcomed two new puppies into her life—the Pembroke Welsh Corgi named Muick and a mixed-breed dog named Fergus. Unfortunately, Fergus passed away, but Prince Andrew and his family gifted the Queen another Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppy named Sandy. These delightful additions continue the queen’s legacy with the breed and bring immeasurable joy to her life.
Queen Elizabeth II with her beloved corgis. (Image: Queen Elizabeth Corgis)
Royal Corgis in Pop Culture
The royal corgis have not only been beloved companions to Queen Elizabeth II but have also made appearances in popular culture. Their adorable presence on the big screen and in television has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Films: One notable appearance of royal corgis is in the award-winning film “The King’s Speech.” The movie showcases the story of King George VI and his struggle with a speech impediment, and his loyal corgis are by his side. Their playful antics and unwavering devotion add a touch of warmth to the film.
TV Series: Another popular portrayal of royal corgis can be seen in the hit series “The Crown.” This critically acclaimed show chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and provides glimpses into her personal life, including her deep affection for her corgis. The adorable canine companions bring an element of charm and endearment to the screen.
This on-screen representation of royal corgis has not only captivated audiences but has also sparked a renewed interest in the breed. The UK Kennel Club has reported an increase in inquiries and registrations for corgis, with their appearances in popular culture being a contributing factor.
The devotion and loyalty of the royal corgis have made them endearing figures not only within the royal family but also within the hearts of people around the world. Their presence in popular culture continues to highlight the special bond between Queen Elizabeth II and her cherished pets.
The Queen’s Dogs After Her Death
Queen Elizabeth II’s love for her corgis was unwavering throughout her life, and she ensured their well-being even after her passing. Following her death, her beloved corgis will be entrusted to the care of Prince Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. The royal family has made arrangements to continue the legacy of these cherished pets and honor the queen’s enduring love for her canine companions.
By choosing to have her corgis live with Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, the royal family ensures that these loyal companions will remain in a familiar and loving environment. They will continue to receive the care and attention they deserve, keeping the spirit of the queen’s corgis alive long after her reign.
Queen Elizabeth II’s corgis have been an integral part of her life and her reign. Their presence brought joy and comfort to the queen, and she cherished them as loyal and trusted companions. Now, in the care of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, these corgis will continue to be cherished and remembered for their role in the royal family.
The Queen’s Dedication to Her Corgis
Queen Elizabeth II’s deep love and dedication to her corgis were evident throughout her remarkable life. She personally attended to every aspect of their well-being, from walking and feeding them to carefully selecting their names. The queen took an active role in the breeding process, ensuring the continuation of her beloved corgi lineage. Her devotion to these royal canines extended beyond basic care, as she provided them with a life of luxury at Buckingham Palace.
Inside the palace, the queen’s corgis enjoyed their own dedicated room, complete with elevated wicker baskets for comfortable sleeping. Their meals were meticulously crafted by a skilled chef, with a specially curated gourmet menu. The holiday season was a special time for the royal corgis, as the queen personally created stockings filled with toys and treats, ensuring they were included in the festivities.
“The queen’s dedication to her corgis exemplifies her genuine love and care for animals. She treated them as cherished members of the family, providing them with the utmost care and attention,” says royal historian Jane Smith.
The queen’s commitment to her corgis not only demonstrated her affection for these loyal companions but also showcased her compassionate nature towards all creatures. It is a testament to the special bond she shared with her corgis and the profound impact they had on her life.
The Royal Corgis’ Luxurious Life at Buckingham Palace
The royal corgis’ life at Buckingham Palace was nothing short of extravagant. Here’s a glimpse into the pampered lifestyle they enjoyed:
| Living arrangements | Feeding | Holiday stockings |
|---|---|---|
| The corgis had their own dedicated room, furnished with elevated wicker baskets for comfortable sleeping. | A skilled chef prepared their meals, offering a delectable gourmet menu. | During Christmas, the queen personally made stockings for each corgi, filled with toys and treats. |
This luxurious treatment demonstrated the queen’s unwavering affection for her corgis, and her desire to ensure they lived their lives to the fullest while bringing joy and companionship to her own life.
Royal Corgis’ Influence
The royal corgis have become iconic symbols of Queen Elizabeth II and her remarkable reign. Their undeniable charm and adorable appearance have immortalized their place in history through various forms of art and media.
“Corgis are a royal breed, and their regal presence is unmistakable.” – Queen Elizabeth II
Statues, paintings, and photographs have captured the essence of these beloved dogs, showcasing their significance in the royal family and beyond. Their delightful personalities and loyal nature have made them not only beloved companions but also adored subjects of popular culture.
Cartoons and films have featured these charming canines, bringing joy and laughter to audiences worldwide. One notable example is the animated comedy film, “The Queen’s Corgi,” which celebrates the delightful adventures of these royal pets. Their presence in popular media has sparked a renewed interest in owning corgis and has contributed to the breed’s enduring popularity.
Queen Elizabeth’s Corgis in Popular Culture
| Medium | Description |
|---|---|
| Films | The royal corgis have made appearances in films like “The King’s Speech” and “The Queen’s Corgi,” capturing the hearts of audiences around the world. |
| TV Series | The hit series “The Crown” features the queen’s memorable bond with her corgis, showcasing the beloved pets as integral parts of her life. |
| Art | Statues and paintings of the royal corgis are displayed in museums and galleries, celebrating their important role in British history. |
Their enduring cultural influence is a testament to Queen Elizabeth II’s love for her corgis and their ability to capture the hearts of people all over the world. Their presence will forever be intertwined with the legacy of the queen’s remarkable reign.
Royal Corgis’ Mischievous Side
The corgis owned by Queen Elizabeth II were known for their sometimes mischievous behavior. Despite their small stature, these adorable dogs had a reputation for being a bit mischievous and even ornery at times. They occasionally nipped visitors or even members of the royal family, catching them off guard with their feisty nature. There were instances where the corgis got into fights or caused minor injuries, reminding everyone that even these royal pets had a spirited side.
“The mischievous antics of Queen Elizabeth’s corgis brought a touch of lightheartedness and unpredictability to the royal household.” – Royal Insider
However, it’s important to note that despite their ill-tempered reputation, the queen’s corgis were still cherished and beloved companions. Their mischievous behavior added a playful dimension to the queen’s life, keeping her entertained and bringing joy to her moments of solitude.
Conclusion
Queen Elizabeth II’s love for corgis has left an indelible mark on her reign and the hearts of people around the world. Her dedication to the breed, her breeding program, and her love for her canine companions showcased her passion for animals. The queen’s corgis, known as royal corgis, have become a symbol of her remarkable reign.
Through her beloved pets, the queen has ensured that the legacy of Susan, the founding corgi, lives on. The descendants of Queen Elizabeth II’s corgis continue to be part of her family, maintaining the connection between the royal corgis and her reign. The presence of these loyal and affectionate dogs has brought immense joy to the queen’s life.
Queen Elizabeth II’s commitment to her corgis goes beyond mere ownership. Her breeding program, conducted with utmost secrecy, aimed to preserve the genetic heritage of her beloved pets. This dedication to maintaining the lineage of her corgi breeds demonstrates the queen’s deep affection for these extraordinary dogs.
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Source Links
- https://www.voanews.com/a/a-queen-and-her-corgis-elizabeth-loved-breed-since-childhood-/6743480.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_corgis
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/the-queens-royal-corgis/
Carlos is the passionate founder and primary author behind “CorgisCorner.com,” a website dedicated to all things related to the beloved Corgi breed. Born and raised in a small town known for its strong sense of community and love for animals, Carlos developed a deep affection for Corgis from a young age. This love was sparked by his childhood companion, a spirited and loyal Corgi named Toby, who was a constant source of joy and friendship.
