Corgis are the darlings of the internet these days and many people want one, but if you are allergic to dogs you are most certainly left asking: Are corgis hypoallergenic? What about a corgi mix, such as a Corgipoo? This article addresses both, plus gives tips for dealing with a corgi allergy.
About Hypoallergenic Dogs
A dog is hypoallergenic when it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction or will produce a lessened reaction.
Normally people who are allergic to dogs are actually allergic to the dander from their skin, which dogs shed in tiny amounts that can circulate in the air. A dog that sheds a lot can cause even worse reactions.
Dog saliva can be another source of allergen as well, but this is not as common.
While all dogs will produce dander to some extent, certain breeds reportedly produce a lot more than others. Those dogs are considered to be hypoallergenic. But, there is also evidence that no breed is actually hypoallergenic. More on that in a bit.
Are Corgis Hypoallergenic?
Corgis are not hypoallergenic. In fact they are far from it.
Corgis, because they have a double coat, shed a lot. They tend to frequently “blow out” their coats, causing even more shedding. This in turn allows of quite a bit of dander to circulate.
So, if you are allergic to dogs, unfortunately a corgi will not be a good choice for you. But what about a corgi mix?
It there a Hypoallergenic Corgi Mix?
There is some anecdotal evidence that mixing a corgi with a hypoallergenic breed will produce a hypoallergenic dog. Interestingly too is that corgi mixes have a tendency to look much more like a corgi than like whatever they are mixed with.
The most popular breed for creating, or attempting to create, a hypoallergenic dog is the poodle. Here is a list of other breeds considered to be hypoallergenic.
Poodles are thought to be particularly hypoallergenic and they often are touted as the most popular hypoallergenic dog. But is it really true?
The Hypoallergenic Myth
A 2012 study concluded that the concept of hypoallergenic dogs is actually a myth. The study found no scientific basis to claim that any given breed of dog produced less allergen, and that household allergens were no lower in homes with hypoallergenic dogs as compared to homes with other breeds.
With that said, I personally know multiple people who swear that they are allergic to all dogs except their poodles. Plus there certainly is a lot of similar anecdotal evidence floating around out there.
Ultimately though, I would not trust that any breed is actually hypoallergenic and certainly would not trust that a corgi mix, such as a corgi poodle mix (also known as a cogipoo) would be. In particular, with a mix, you never know what you will end up getting.
The upside though is that a mix is most likely to be obtained through rescue or a shelter, where you can visit the dog and test your exposure to it. I am not a fan of breeding corgi mixes or other breed mixes to attempt to make a hypoallergenic version of the breed. But if you come across a Corgipoo in a shelter, you might see if it triggers your allergies.
So, what can you do if you have your heart set on a corgi but have allergies? Below are some tips for dealing with your corgi allergy.
How to Keep a Corgi if You Are Allergic
If your allergies are not severe, it is possible to live in harmony with a corgi or other breed of dog. Talk to your doctor or allergist about it and try these tips:
1. Look into medical treatments for your allergies: By taking a series of allergy shots, you may be able to overcome your allergy entirely. Various medications can also reduce your allergic reaction.
2. Use an air purifier with a Hepa filter: A Hepa filter air purifier can remove a lot of the pet dander and other allergens in your air. Most are bedroom size, so you may want to purchase multiple units. Levoit (affiliate link) is a particularly popular and highly rated brand for use by those with pet allergies.
3. Do not allow your corgi close to your face: Yes, snuggling with your dog is part of the enjoyment of having one, but avoid too much time close to your face and do not let your dog share your bed with you.
4. Clean up and then clean some more: Keep your home clean. Vacuum regularly and dust and clean often. Bissell makes this vacuum (affiliate link) specifically designed to remove pet dander.
5. Keep your dog clean: Regularly groom and brush your dog, or have a person without allergies do so for you. Keep your dog bathed frequently.
6. Explore a different food for your dog: The more nutritious the food, the better your dog’s skin and coat will be. That means less shedding and less dry skin.
7. Add Fish Oil to Your Dog’s Diet: Adding salmon oil can help keep your corgi’s skin in top condition and is all around generally good for your dog. I give my dogs Grizzly Salmon Oil (affiliate link)
Summary: Corgis and Allergies
Corgis are not hypoallergenic. And there is no guarantee that a corgi mix, such as a corgipoo, will be hypoallergenic either. However, there are ways that you can possibly happily share your home with one.