Do corgis shed? 4 tips for a fur-free home

Corgis are shedders. Shedding is a natural process that helps to keep their skin and coat healthy, and they will shed their coat regularly throughout the year.

Corgis are renowned for small size, cute faces, and thick double-coats. So, naturally, would-be owners are often curious as to how much hair they leave about the house.

One of the most common questions I’m asked about corgis is do they shed?

When you look at a corgi, it’s easy to assume that because of their double-coat will shed a lot of hair. And you’re right. Corgis do shed.

In this article, I’ll break down everything there is to know about corgis shedding their hair, and offer some tips on how to reduce the impact this has on your home.

How much do corgis shed?

Corgis are moderate shedders. This means that they shed their coat regularly, but the amount of shedding is not as heavy as it is in some other breeds.
 
If you own a corgi, it’s likely you’ll need to vacuum your living area a few times a week to keep your home tidy, along with removing the pieces of fallen fur from furniture.
 
Some owners picture a nightmare trying to keep the house tidy once they get their corgi puppy.
 
Surprisingly, this isn’t the case. Yes, they do shed hair, but not enough to spend hours each day cleaning up after them
 
My usual routine will involve vacuuming the house once or twice a week and running a de-fluffing tool over the couch and bed covers to remove any excess fluff.
 
So, if you’re thinking about buying a corgi, but are worried about how much hair they might shed – don’t stress. While there is work to do, you have nothing to be concerned about.

Why do corgis shed so much? 3 reasons corgis why corgis shed

Corgis shed a lot because they have a double coat – two layers of hair. This consists of a soft, thick undercoat and a longer, coarser topcoat.
 
The top layer of hair consists of guard hairs that repel moisture and dirt.
 
The bottom layer of hair is a dense insulating undercoat that helps regulate body temperature, helping them stay cool in the summer or warm in the winter.
 
The two layers of hair work in tandem to protect corgis from the elements and extreme temperatures.
 
The undercoat is typically shed more heavily than the topcoat, and it can be more difficult to remove from furniture, clothing, and other surfaces.
 
There may be other factors that contribute to corgi shedding, and excessive shedding may be a cause for concern. Here are three reasons why your corgi might be shedding more than other dogs.

1. Temperature

Corgis shed their hair in response to changes in temperature. Corgis shed more hair when the seasons change from cold to hot weather, as they naturally drop their winter coat.
 
In the winter, when the days are shorter and the air is cooler, corgis will grow a thicker coat to keep warm.
 
As the days start to get longer and the weather warms up, the corgi's body will start to shed its winter coat in preparation for summer.
 
This shedding process is a natural part of a corgi's biology and helps to regulate their body temperature and keep their coat healthy.
 
It is normal for corgis to shed more heavily during this time of year. I recommend you brush and groom your corgi regularly to help remove excess hair and prevent matting.

2. Illness or stress

Corgis may shed excess fur when they are sick or feeling stresses. This may indicate a visit to the vet is in order.
 
It is possible for corgis to experience hair loss due to stress or illness, just like humans.
 
If you notice that your corgi is shedding more hair than usual, it is important to pay attention to this change and seek veterinary care.
 
Excessive shedding, particularly shedding in large clumps, may be a sign of underlying health issues and it is important to have your corgi examined by a veterinarian.
 
It is always best to be proactive in caring for your corgi's health, and address health concerns as soon as possible to ensure the best for your beloved pet.

3. Individual characteristics

The amount of shedding that a corgi does can vary depending on factors including their age, breed, diet, and overall health.
 
There are several factors that can affect how much a corgi sheds. Some of the most common reasons that some corgis shed more than others include:
 

1. Breed: Some corgi breeds are more prone to shedding than others. For example, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi have different coat types and the texture of the fur they shed is different. Likewise, some corgi cross-breeds are more prone to shedding than others.
   
   
2. Age: As corgis age, their shedding patterns may change. For example, young corgis go through a bulk shedding phase as they lose their puppy coat and grow their adult coat. 
   
   
3. Health: Corgis that are in good health tend to shed less than those that are unhealthy or have certain medical conditions, such as allergies or hormonal imbalances. 
   
   
4. Diet: A corgi's diet can play a role in how much they shed. A healthy diet that includes all the necessary nutrients can help to support a healthy coat and reduce shedding. 

It is important to be aware of these factors and to work with your veterinarian to manage any health issues or dietary concerns that may be contributing to excessive shedding in your corgi.

The 3 key factors that determine how much your corgi sheds are: temperature, sickness, and individual lifestyle and genetic conditions.

Do all corgis shed? 

Yes, both Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Cardigan Welsh Corgis shed their hair year-round.
 
Corgis are moderate shedders and potential corgi owners should take this into consideration when determining whether or not a corgi is a good fit for their household. 
 
Most corgis will lose small amounts of hair from both layers of their coat daily. To manage this, corgis do require regular brushing and the occasional bath to keep their coats clean and free of potential mats.

What corgi breed doesn't shed?

All corgi breeds shed. However, some cross breeds shed less than others.
 
Certain corgi mixes tend to shed less than purebred Cardigan Welsh corgis or Pembroke Welsh corgis, because they have a genetic structure that changes the coat.
 
For example, you may consider adopting a shih tzu/corgi mix or a miniature schnauzer/corgi mix as both are less likely to shed.
 
This is because shih tzus and mini schnauzers are considered (mostly) hypoallergenic dog breeds.

What months do corgis shed the most?

Corgis, like many other breeds of dogs, tend to shed more heavily during the transitional seasons of Spring and Autumn.
 
In the Southern Hemisphere, Spring covers September, October, November and Autumn covers March, April and May.
 
In the Northern Hemisphere, Spring covers March, April and May and Autumn covers September, October, November.
 
This shedding is a natural process that helps to regulate their body temperature and prepare their coat for the changing seasons.
 
In Spring, as the weather starts to warm up, corgis will shed their thick winter coat in preparation for summer.
 
In Autumn, as the weather cools down, they will start to grow a thicker coat for the winter.
 
It is normal for corgis to shed more heavily during these times of year, and it is important to brush and groom them regularly to help remove excess hair and prevent matting. 

When does a corgi puppy start shedding

Corgi puppies usually begin shedding their fur around 6 months old.
 
Corgis are born with a puppy coat. Corgi adults have a double coat – a soft, dense undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat.
 
The shedding process occurs as the puppy's adult coat begins to grow in.
 
During the shedding process, it is common for corgi puppies to lose a significant amount of fur. This shedding will typically continue for a few months until the adult coat is fully grown in.

How do I stop my corgi from shedding?

It is not possible to completely prevent a corgi from shedding, as shedding is a natural process that helps maintain their coat's health and cleanliness.
 
Despite this being a healthy thing, it can be annoying to have fur all about the house. Fur often gets into places you least want it including the furniture, the carpet, and even among the pillows and blankets that rest on your bed.
 
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to minimise shedding, and these are outlined in details below. These are outlined below.

How to reduce your corgi’s shedding? 4 steps you can take now.

​While you cannot stop your corgi shedding, you can reduce the amount of fur that they shed through grooming, diet, and healthcare.
 
Here are some tips to help you reduce the impact of your corgi’s shedding on your home.

1. Regularly groom your corgi

​To minimise shedding, it is important to groom your corgi regularly. This will keep loose fur off your floor and out of your house.
 
Grooming your corgi will help to remove loose fur from their coat and keep their skin and fur healthy.
 
To groom your corgi, start by brushing their coat. You can use a slicker brush or shedding blade to gently remove tangles and mats from your corgi's fur.
 
Be sure to brush in the direction of hair growth and be gentle to avoid hurting your dog.
 
By regularly grooming your corgi, you can help to prevent excessive shedding and maintain the overall health of their coat and skin.

2. Feed your corgi a high-quality diet

​Feeding your corgi a high-quality diet can support the health of their coat and skin, which can in turn help to reduce shedding.
 
A diet that is rich in essential nutrients such as protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals can help to nourish the skin and promote a healthy, shiny coat.
 
There are several factors to consider when selecting a high-quality diet for your corgi.
 
One important factor is the source of the protein. Look for a diet that includes a named source of protein, such as chicken or beef, as the first ingredient. This will ensure that your corgi is getting enough of this essential nutrient.
 
Other important nutrients to consider include healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help to nourish the skin and promote a healthy coat. Look for a diet that includes ingredients such as fish oil, which is rich in these essential fatty acids.
 
Proper hydration is also important for maintaining the health of your corgi's coat and skin. Make sure your corgi has access to clean, fresh water at all times.

​3. Keep an eye on your corgi’s health

​If your corgi is shedding excessively, it’s important to speak to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues that could be causing the shedding.
 
If you notice any changes in your corgi's coat or skin, or if they seem to be shedding more than usual, it may be a sign of a health issue.
 
In this case, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the cause and get proper treatment. They will be able to give you guidance that will keep your corgi healthy and reduce the amount they are shedding.

4. Keep your home clean with regular cleaning

While this doesn’t change how much they shed, regularly cleaning and vacuuming can have a big impact on your home.
 
Regular cleaning will help remove loose fur from your floors and furniture.
 
Use a lint roller or a damp cloth to remove fur from furniture and other surfaces. This will help to keep your furniture and other surfaces fur-free.
 
You should also wash your corgi's bedding and toys regularly. This will help to remove any accumulated fur from your corgi's sleeping and play areas.

The 4 best ways to keep your house clear of fur are: grooming, good diet, regular vet check-ups, and regular cleaning.

Should I shave my corgi?

No, it is not recommended to shave your corgi.
 
Shaving your corgi's coat can disrupt the natural shedding process, and it is not a good way to help maintain healthy fur.
 
Rather than shedding regular length hair, your dog may shed shorter spikes of hair that are more difficult to remove from your home.
 
Shaving your corgi's coat can remove the protective outer layer of fur, leaving their skin vulnerable to sunburn and other environmental irritants.
 
This can be especially problematic for corgis, as they have short, stocky bodies and are prone to overheating.
 
If you are concerned about shedding or if you need to groom your corgi for a specific reason, such as for a medical procedure, it is best to consult with a veterinarian or a professional groomer.
 
They can provide guidance on the best grooming options for your corgi and help you to maintain the overall health of their coat and skin.

​Final thoughts on corgi shedding

​Corgis are a breed that is known for shedding, and it is not possible to completely stop a corgi from shedding. There are however steps you can take to minimise shedding and keep your corgi's coat and skin healthy.
 
These include regularly grooming your corgi, feeding them a high-quality diet, and maintaining their overall health.
 
It is also important to keep your home clean by regularly vacuuming and sweeping your floors, washing your corgi's bedding and toys, and using a shed-control shampoo when giving your corgi a bath.
 
If you have any concerns about your corgi's shedding or grooming, it is always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian who can tell you what to do for your specific dog.

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