Though the efforts of enthusiasts grew awareness of Pembroke and Cardigan corgis throughout the early 20th century, nothing did more to propel the dog into the international spotlight than the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.
The former Queen, who passed away in 2022, fell in love with Corgis at a young age, and was gifted a Pembroke on her 18th birthday by her father, King George VI, which she named Susan. Three years later, during Elizabeth’s wedding to the Duke of Edinburgh, Susan was reputedly hidden away in her wedding carriage so the dog could be a part of the big day – even accompanying the royal couple on their honeymoon.
From Susan, Elizabeth bred dozens of corgis throughout her life, as well as dachshund-crosses, known as "dorgis". The dogs were beloved pets and said to live a life of luxury, sleeping in pillow-lined wicker baskets in their own dedicated room of the palace – with meals, including fresh rabbit, prepared by the Royal kitchen staff.
Due to the constant presence of corgis at Elizabeth’s side throughout her reign, the breed has become a symbol of the modern British royal family, appearing on coins, featuring in statues, and adorning mountains of souvenir mugs.
The royal corgis have also become the subject of a number of books and films, as well as making a star turn, alongside Daniel Craig as James Bond, in a notable sketch that featured as part of the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Summer Olympics.
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