The only people who aren’t aware of Queen Elizabeth I’s affection and affiliation with the Pembroke Welsh Corgi were probably born just within the last ten years. Those of us who are well acquainted with The Queen’s providence with Pemmies probably think the relationship began when Elizabeth’s father, George VI, presented her with “Susan” for her 18th birthday, and we’d be correct. Sort of. The Pembroke “thing” actually began earlier in 1933 when Elizabeth’s father was still the Duke of York.  Thelma Gray (Rozavel Kennels) brought three Corgi puppies to the family for the family to see. Of of the three youngsters, “Dookie” (Rozavel Golden Eagle) was chosen and brought home.  A Royal Kennelman was entrusted to train the dog who initially referred to the puppy as “Duke.”

Names. We all know how it goes with names.

“Duke” morphed into “Dukie,” and because of the kennelman’s Yorkshire accent, “Dukie” became “Dookie.”

He was just the beginning. Queen Elizabeth has kept Corgis longer than she’s known her husband, Prince Philip.  “Susan” came along on the Queen’s 18th birthday in 1944, and she was the start of 13 generations of descendants.

At 92 years old, Elizabeth decided it wasn’t fair to bring more Corgis into the family. A few months ago, Britain’s Daily Mail reported that the last of the queen’s corgis, “Willow,” was put to sleep at Buckingham Palace, and she was probably the last of her line.

Growing old. It isn’t for sissies.

Image of Queen Elizabeth with “Dookie”