Royal Animal Psychologist Disagrees With Queen Over Her Corgis

In the wake of Her Majesty’s death on the 8th of September 2022, many people look back fondly at the Queen’s relationship with her corgis. Rarely seen on a walk without her beloved dogs in tow, the Queen was known to love and care for a pack of corgis. The Queen’s corgis have become iconic over the years.

Not everyone agreed with the number of dogs the Queen chose to own, and the former royal dog trainer Dr. Roger Mugford recalls telling Her Majesty that she owned too many dogs and even advised her to stop breeding them further. The Queen was outraged by his comment and had something to say in response, something the trainer would never forget.

Queen Elizabeth II devoted much of her time to her beloved corgis and, during the time of her reign, owned over 30 of the breed. The Queen’s first corgi was gifted to her by King George VI on her 18th birthday. This corgi was named Susan and produced many descendants over the years.

The corgis lived in Buckingham Palace and had their menu created with a special, tailor-made gravy recipe, the dogs also had their luxurious royal beds. Alongside Dr. Roger Mugford, the Queen’s late husband Prince Philip also thought she owned too many dogs, but she refused to give them away.

In a recent interview on the UK show This Morning, Dr. Roger Mugford, an animal psychologist who worked with the Queen for many years, shared how Her Majesty responded when he advised her to stop breeding. The Queen made a light-hearted response to Mugford and said that she wouldn’t have hired him if she knew that he agreed with her husband regarding owning too many dogs, which ranged from around 9-12 dogs at a time.

When Mugford asked whether the Queen would consider rehoming any of her beloved corgis, the Queen replied, “If I thought that was going to be your advice, I wouldn’t have invited you round.”

The Queen knew already that she owned too many dogs yet couldn’t bear to part with them.

During the interview, the animal psychologist explained that it was sometimes his job to give advice that may not be welcome. He also explained that the Queen’s corgis were very much loved and friendly.

He went on to further explain that the queen was an outstanding trainer – “she could line them up in a semi-circle, and they remained patient and still waiting for their food, which came in on a big silver platter and individual bowls for each dog.” He commended the Queen for her love and devotion to her dogs and told the interviewers that she walked the dogs and even picked up their mess.

Sadly, Mugford believes that the corgis will feel the impact of the Queen’s death and will be aware of her absence.

The Queen’s three dogs have moved with Prince Andrew and will have a happy new home in Windsor.