Pembroke Welsh Corgi have been used by the Welsh as herding dogs, family companions, and guardians of the farm. They continue today to be workers and companions for their owners. It is believed that their ancestry dates back  at least the tenth century. It is unknown whether they are descended from the Vallhunds (Sweedish cattle dogs possibly brought to Pembrokeshire by the Vikings) or from ancestors of the present-day Schipperkes and Pomeranians that were brought to Wales by Flemish weavers. In the 1920's Corgis were recognized as purebred dogs in the United Kingdom. In 1934 the Pembroke and Cardigan Corgis were recognized by the English Kennel Club recognition of the two distinct breeds also occured in that same year. Pembrokes are sensitive and intelligent dogs. They are easily trained as long as training is done with gentle handling and without severe physical correction. They are healthy and long-lived dogs and are excellent companions.