Do Corgis Shed?

With their adorable appearance and happy-go-lucky personalities, it’s no wonder that Corgis have become such a beloved breed. But that luxurious double coat comes at a price – namely, year-round shedding that can cover your floors, furniture, and clothing in fuzzy fur!

Shedding is simply a fact of life with Corgis, but there are steps you can take as a pet parent to manage it. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about shedding in Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis.

An Overview of Corgi Coat Types

To understand shedding in Corgis, we first need to take a look at their unique coat structure. The two breeds of Corgi – Pembroke Welsh and Cardigan Welsh – are double coated dogs.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a medium-length double coat consisting of:

A dense, shorter undercoat that provides insulation.
A longer, coarser outer coat called the guard hair.

Pembrokes come in red, sable, fawn, and black and tan coat colors. White markings on the legs, chest, neck, and belly are common.

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Cardigan Welsh Corgis have a slightly longer double-layered coat:

A soft, thick undercoat.
An outer coat of longer fur.

Cardigans exhibit a wider range of coat colors including red, sable, brindle, black, and blue merle. White markings are also present throughout the coat.

So what does this double coat mean when it comes to shedding? Let’s find out!

Why Do Corgis Shed So Much?

The Corgi’s heavy seasonal shedding is directly related to their double coat. Here’s what you need to know about their shedding cycle:

Spring Shedding

As the seasons change from winter to spring, Corgis “blow” their undercoat. This allows a lighter coat for the warmer months. Expect intense shedding that can last up to one month. Tufts of fuzzy undercoat will come loose with the slightest touch. Daily brushing is a must during this time.

Fall Shedding

In the fall, Corgis once again blow their coat to transition back to the thicker winter undercoat. Shedding kicks into high gear for another lengthy period. Regular brushing will help keep flying fur under control.

Year-Round Shedding

Corgis shed moderately year-round as old hairs are replaced by new growth. You’ll find fur tumbleweeds drifting across your floors on a daily basis. Brushing 1-2 times per week helps manage this continual shedding.

Other Shedding Factors

In addition to seasonal shedding cycles, other elements influence the amount of fur Corgis lose:

Age – Puppies and elderly Corgis tend to shed more.
Health – Illnesses, stress, poor nutrition, and pregnancy can increase shedding.
Hot weather – Corgis will shed more in summer to stay cool.
Indoor heating – Running heaters in winter contributes to a heavier shed.

Understanding the shedding patterns and causes will prepare you for a fur-filled life with a Pembroke or Cardigan Welsh Corgi!

Tips for Managing Corgi Shedding

While shedding is unavoidable with double-coated breeds like Corgis, you can take steps to control the fur situation:

Brush Regularly

Invest in an undercoat rake and slicker brush to penetrate the dense double coat.
During heavy sheds, aim to brush daily if possible. Otherwise every 2-3 days.
Brush gently – pressing too hard can damage their skin.
Always brush outside or over old sheets to contain loose fur.

Bathe Strategically

Bathing 1-2 times per month can help loosen up shedding fur.
Use a deshedding shampoo to latch onto loose hairs.
Dry thoroughly since dampness increases shedding.

Consider Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids support skin and coat health.
Products containing Biotin and Vitamin E may also help minimize shedding.

Upgrade Your Vacuum

A heavy duty vacuum will better manage all the fur. Consider a robot vac to constantly keep up.
Use attachments like a rubber pet brush to remove hair from furniture.

Manage Their Environment

Keep your home cool in summer and avoid running heat excessively indoors during winter.
Wash fabric items like bedding weekly to remove accumulated fur.

With some planning and consistent effort, you can achieve some control over the inevitable Corgi fur drifts!

Know When to See the Vet

Excessive shedding that is not seasonal may indicate an underlying medical issue needing veterinary attention. Seek an exam if you notice:

Sudden increased shedding
Bald patches
Red, flaky, irritated skin
Brittle, dull coat

Frequently Asked Questions About Corgis and Shedding

New and prospective Corgi owners often have lots of questions about just how much shedding to expect. Here are some common queries:

Do Corgis shed more than other breeds?

Yes, in general Corgis shed notably more than non-double coated breeds. The Pyrenean Mountain Dogs they originated from developed heavy shedding coats to survive harsh mountain climates. Among heavy shedders, Corgis are definitely top contenders!

Is there such thing as a hypoallergenic Corgi?

No, there are no Corgi breeds or lines that are fully non-shedding or hypoallergenic. Individuals with severe allergies may react less to certain Corgis, but there is no guarantee. All Corgis shed to some degree.

How can I find a less shedding Corgi?

Your best bet is to look for Cardigan Welsh Corgi lines proven to have slightly less undercoat. Brush parents thoroughly when visiting a breeder and see how much loose fur comes out. Sadly, no Corgi is truly low-shed.

Are Corgi mixes less sheddy?

Corgi mixes may shed slightly less depending on the other parent breed, but there is no way to predict this. Even Corgi cross pups tend to inherit at least some degree of heavy shedding. Proper grooming and managing their environment is still required.

What is the best age to get a Corgi for shedding reasons?

Adopting an adult Corgi over the age of two is preferable in terms of predictable shedding patterns. With puppies, you won’t know their full adult shedding potential for a couple years. Seniors over age 10 may start shedding less.

The Bottom Line on Shedding and Corgis

While excessive shedding is simply part of owning this wonderful breed, a few key points are worth remembering:

Invest in quality grooming tools and use them frequently. slicker brushes, undercoat rakes, deshedding tools, and high-powered vacuums will be your new best friends.
Following healthy nutrition, grooming, and vet care practices can help minimize shedding.
Properly socialize and train your Corgi from early on so they enjoy brushing and bathing.
Embrace the fuzzy tumbleweeds and dog hair-covered clothing as part of owning this fabulous breed! With the right tools and techniques, you can manage the situation.
Enjoy the bonding time brushing provides and reassure your fluffy friend that bald spots grow back! Shedding is simply part of having a double-coated dog.

The shedding struggle is real with Corgis, but their wonderful temperaments and comical antics are worth the trade-off of year-round fur. With some planning and patience, you’ll handle the fur blizzard in stride and focus on cuddling that cute corgi butt!

Now we’d love to hear your experiences. What are your best tips and tricks for managing Corgi shedding? Share your advice in the comments for other owners to benefit from! And don’t forget to share this guide with any pet parent who needs solidarity during never-ending Corgi shedding season.