The Queen’s Royal Corgis: History, Legacy, and Enduring Bond
Beloved by a monarch, these dogs became an enduring symbol of loyalty at court.
The Queen’s Royal Corgis: A Tale of Loyalty and Legacy
No symbol of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign is as instantly recognizable or as endearing as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Over her seventy-year reign, these short-legged, expressive dogs became synonymous with the Queen herself, representing steadfast loyalty, devotion, and the softer side of royal life. The Queen’s relationship with her corgis not only shaped the world’s view of the breed but also wove an indelible thread through the tapestry of 20th- and 21st-century British royalty.
This article journeys through the fascinating history, giving readers an intimate look into the royal corgi story, from childhood companions to national icons.
The Roots of a Royal Fascination
Long before Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, her affection for corgis took root in childhood. At age seven, the princess’s curiosity was piqued by a neighbor’s playful Welsh Corgis. At the time, the royal family favored shih tzus and labradors, but this changed when the future King George VI, then Duke of York, brought home a corgi named Dookie in 1933. Dookie’s arrival marked the start of a lifelong relationship between the royal family and the breed.
- Dookie: The first corgi companion in the Windsor home, known for his wit and lively spirit.
- Jane: The family’s second corgi, given by the breeder Thelma Gray, joined soon after and quickly became a royal favorite.
These early pets brought the young princesses, Elizabeth and Margaret, much joy and companionship in their formative years. Photographs from the 1930s often show the girls doting on their pets, feeding them by hand and ensuring their comfort, even as royal life quickly grew more complex.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Breed Overview
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, with its fox-like face, short stature, and energetic demeanor, won the Queen’s heart from the very first encounter. These dogs are renowned for their intelligence, gentle disposition, and playful nature, making them ideal companions for both children and adults.
| Breed Trait | Pembroke Welsh Corgi |
|---|---|
| Origin | Wales, United Kingdom |
| Physical Characteristics | Short legs, long body, pointed ears, bobbed tail |
| Temperament | Affectionate, intelligent, alert, energetic |
| Colors | Red, sable, fawn, and black and tan; usually with white markings |
| Average Lifespan | 12–15 years |
From Princess to Queen: Susan and the Start of a Dynasty
Although Dookie and Jane introduced the family to the breed, it was Susan who established the direct royal line of Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Susan was presented to Princess Elizabeth as an 18th birthday gift in 1944, registered as “Hickathrift Pippa.” She accompanied Elizabeth everywhere—including, famously, on her honeymoon with Prince Philip, hidden under blankets in the royal carriage.
Susan’s legacy was profound:
- Foundation of Notable Bloodlines: Every corgi Elizabeth owned thereafter was a direct descendant of Susan, elevating Susan as matriarch in royal breeding.
- Loyal Companion: Susan was by Elizabeth’s side in pivotal life moments, signifying the unwavering bond the two shared.
Life in the Royal Household
The royal corgis lived a life marked by both luxury and discipline. Each dog was given its own raised wicker basket to shield them from drafts and their meals were carefully crafted under veterinary supervision—a proprietary brand of meat dog biscuits for breakfast, and dog meal with gravy in the evening. While treats were allowed on special occasions and as rewards, scraps from the royal table were strictly forbidden.
- Individual attention: Hand-fed by footmen, provided their own bedding, and enjoyed daily walks with the Queen.
- Supervised Socialization: Their playtime and routines were closely monitored, emphasizing both exercise and etiquette.
The Corgis’ Influence on Palace Life and Pop Culture
With the Queen’s ascension in 1952, the corgis became a regular feature of palace life. Often seen in official photographs and even accompanying the Queen during public engagements, her pack of corgis added relatability to her public image.
- Olympics Feature: At the 2012 London Olympics, the Queen’s corgis famously starred in a comedic pre-recorded segment with Daniel Craig’s James Bond, showcasing the Queen’s sense of humor and deep fondness for her dogs.
- Royal Portraits: Paintings and photographs frequently included one or more corgis at the Queen’s feet, permanently linking the breed to her reign.
The “royal corgis” became cultural icons, with their likeness printed on everything from souvenirs to postage stamps. This global visibility transformed the Pembroke Welsh Corgi into one of the world’s most beloved dog breeds.
Breeding Program and the Birth of the Dorgi
Through Susan, the Queen began a distinguished corgi breeding program that lasted several decades. Under her eye, over 30 corgis were bred and raised at various royal residences.
A unique twist in the royal lineage came when one of the Queen’s corgis mated with a Dachshund belonging to Princess Margaret. The result was the first “dorgi”—a corgi-dachshund cross that quickly found favor within the royal family.
- Dorgis: Known for their charismatic and playful personalities, these mixes added yet another dimension to the royal canine household.
- Intergenerational Joy: Both corgis and dorgis became beloved companions to young princes and princesses, as well as visiting heads of state.
Endearing Personalities and Individual Stories
Each royal corgi was known for its unique personality and antics. Some anecdotes include:
- Crackers: A corgi from the Queen Mother’s era who became her constant companion and retired with her to Scotland.
- Susan: Famously traveled with the Queen on her honeymoon and was the foundation of every subsequent royal corgi line.
- Willow: The last purebred Pembroke Welsh Corgi descended from Susan, passed away in 2018, effectively ending the Queen’s direct breeding line.
The Queen often described the corgis as a source of comfort, entertainment, and companionship, especially during moments of personal challenge or loss.
Notable Incidents and Palace Pranks
Life with a bustling pack of corgis was never dull. The royal corgis were notoriously energetic, often staging impromptu races down palace corridors or causing gentle chaos during important meetings. Yet, these stories only illuminated the Queen’s patience, humor, and genuine affection for her pets and reinforced their enduring appeal in the public’s imagination.
The End of an Era: The Queen’s Final Corgis
Although at one time the Queen had as many as 13 corgis living with her, in later years she gradually reduced the size of her pack. In part, this was due to responsible breeding—she did not wish her dogs to outlive her, as she confided to close friends.
- Willow: The last royal descendant of Susan, Willow’s passing in 2018 marked the end of a dynastic era.
- Muick and Sandy: The Queen’s final corgis, given to her in her later years, are now cared for by other members of the royal family after her passing.
Even after her death in 2022, the Queen’s corgis remain a vital part of her legacy, with their care entrusted to trusted family members who ensure their continued well-being.
The Corgis’ Enduring Legacy
The bond between Queen Elizabeth II and her Pembroke Welsh Corgis spanned nearly her entire life, influencing not only royal tradition but also popular perceptions of pet ownership. The Queen’s careful stewardship of the breed, her attention to their health and happiness, and her deep emotional connection with each dog set a gold standard for animal companionship at the highest levels of society.
- Cultural Symbol: The Queen’s lifelong devotion made the Pembroke Welsh Corgi a global symbol of British royalty and personal loyalty.
- Breed Popularity: Demand for corgis soared worldwide as people endeavored to share in a small part of royal magic.
- Historic Continuity: Corgis will forever be part of the iconography of Elizabeth II’s reign, much like her distinctive hats or regal wave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How many corgis did Queen Elizabeth II own during her life?
A: Over the course of her life, Queen Elizabeth II owned more than 30 Pembroke Welsh Corgis, all but a few descended from her first corgi, Susan.
Q: Why did the Queen love corgis so much?
A: The Queen was introduced to the breed as a child and found their intelligence, spirited personalities, and loyalty enchanting. They became unbreakable companions throughout her life.
Q: What is a “dorgi”?
A: A dorgi is a cross between a Pembroke Welsh Corgi and a Dachshund. The Queen’s sister, Princess Margaret, helped create the first dorgis by breeding her dachshund, Pipkin, with one of the Queen’s corgis.
Q: Did the Queen’s corgis live in luxury?
A: Yes; the royal corgis enjoyed a privileged lifestyle, with specially-designed sleeping quarters, gourmet meals, and round-the-clock attention from household staff and the Queen herself.
Q: Are any of the Queen’s corgis still alive?
A: After the Queen’s passing, surviving corgis were entrusted to other members of the royal family, where they continue to be cared for in a loving environment.
Conclusion
The story of Queen Elizabeth II and her corgis is a testament to the joys of loyal companionship. As guardians of a unique royal tradition, these dogs continue to inspire dog lovers everywhere, reminding the world that even the mightiest monarchs find comfort, humor, and solace in the presence of a beloved pet. The Queen’s legacy, in part, endures in every wagging tail and playful bark that echoes through the halls of history.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_corgis
- https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/queen-elizabeth-corgis-brief-history-b1024487.html
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/the-queens-royal-corgis/
- https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a39786117/queen-elizabeth-corgis-history/
- https://history.howstuffworks.com/historical-figures/queen-corgis.htm
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