Shar-Pei

Shar Pei Dog: Introduction to the Breed

The name "sand skin" refers to their distinctive coat with bristles. Chinese Shar-Peis aren't just unusual because of their appearance. A solid mass of loose wrinkles makes them look like they’re wearing a bulky, oversized suit. On top of their large, powerful head is a pair of tiny ears and a long muzzle with a purple tongue. The tail curls over their backs, giving them a finishing touch.

Shar-Pei dogs are certainly interesting-looking, and their looks alone are enough to prompt many would-be owners to choose them. Although the Shar-Pei is known for their unique appearance, they have much more to offer. They are calm enough to live in an apartment. They are also independent thinking, sometimes aloof. Having been raised as a guardian and fighting dog, they can make an excellent watchdog and guard dog, so much so that they must be taught not to overreact to strangers and animals.

The Shar-Pei is a strong-willed breed that needs early training. When an owner does not establish leadership firmly and kindly, he tends not to respect that owner. Training him is generally easy if he doesn't show his stubborn streak, since he is a quick learner.

The Shar-Pei is easy to groom. It is neither necessary nor recommended for him to be bathed frequently since he is naturally clean. All those wrinkles, however, can make him prone to skin problems, so extra attention may be needed there. Shar-Pei popularity is down, which is actually good for the breed. Popularity increases breeding, especially among unscrupulous breeders who don't care about health, temperament, or conformation. Unfortunately, that is what happened to the Shar-Pei during the 1980s. It has been a priority of responsible breeders to restore the breed's loyal, loving temperament, and to reduce or eliminate its health problems.

Pet ownership is one of the most significant decisions you can make for your family. Prior to purchasing another puppy, take the time and energy to research the available puppies and consider which will best fit your family and lifestyle. Consider carefully which characteristics you would like in a dog and which you would prefer the dog not to have. You should know a few things about the Shar Pei breed.

Shar Pei dogs are generally:

The Shar Pei is an excellent choice if you are looking for a loyal, loving friend. A person who understands their unique needs and is willing to accommodate their individual personalities is crucial to their happiness.

Shar-Peis are primarily working dogs, although they are classified as non-sporting dogs. They can be aggressive with other dogs of the same sex unless they are socialized with other animals. Individuals differ in their personalities and temperaments. Shar-Peis may live quite happily around smaller animals and livestock, while others may show natural hunting instincts. If they have been raised with children and other pets, they are generally good with them.

What are the Origins of the Shar Pei?

Chinese Shar-Peis were valued as hunters, herders, guardians, and fighters in the southern provinces of China. Although there is no definitive proof that the Shar-Pei breed is ancient, some historians believe it to be so. There are statues that look like the Shar-Pei dated to the Han Dynasty (200 B.C.). These statues also resemble the Chow and Pug.

China almost wiped out its dog population after the establishment of the People's Republic of China. A few Shar-Peis have, however, been bred in Hong Kong and Taiwan as well. The Shar-Pei might have gone extinct if it wasn't for the efforts of Matgo Law at Down-Homes Kennels in Hong Kong.

In 1973, he brought a small number of Shar-Peis to the United States, and breed fans formed the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America, Inc., in 1974.

What are the Risks for the Shar Pei Dog Breed?

A Shar-Pei is prone to certain types of health issues, especially skin conditions. Although not all Shar-Peis will develop any or all of these conditions, it is still important to know about them if you are thinking of adopting one.

There are some health concerns and issues specific to the Chinese Shar-Pei breed that are unusual and specific. A major problem area is the eyes; the breed is known to have eye disorders such as entropion, glaucoma, retinal dysplasia, and SARDS (severe acute retinal dystrophy). Some cancers can also be caused by respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, immune-mediated, skin, and gastrointestinal conditions.

Other Shar Pei health problems may include:

Make sure your puppy's parents are health-cleared before you buy it from a breeder. The health clearance proves that a dog has been tested and cleared for a particular condition.

Shar-Pei’s can live comfortably in either the city or the country. If they exercise daily, they can do well in limited spaces, like apartments and condominiums. It is not necessary to have a backyard for them, but they enjoy getting out and stretching their legs. Shar-Peis generally enjoy hanging out with their owners, wherever they may be. Start training and socializing your Shar Pei the day you bring them home and commit to continuing the process throughout their life. Since they’re not naturally friendly to other dogs, they'll need constant reinforcement. The owner must establish leadership by being consistent and firm. They can also be stubborn. However, they generally respond well to training and is eager to please.

One of the best ways to socialize your Shar-Pei is to take them everywhere - to puppy classes, outdoor events, busy parks, friends' houses. By doing this, they can avoid becoming overly timid or overprotective. It is recommended that Shar-Pei’s be leashed while out in public since this breed can be aggressive toward other dogs.

Shar-Pei dogs are classified as brachycephalic breeds, like Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs. Because of their short noses, they are highly sensitive to heat, making them poor jogging partners. During hot weather, these dogs should be kept inside with fans or air conditioning to prevent heat stroke.

Are Chinese shar-peis hypoallergenic?

No, this breed is not hypoallergenic.

How often do Chinese shar-peis have to be groomed?

Bathing is rarely needed more than once a month. Nails, teeth, and ears should be cleaned at standard intervals.

Checking the wrinkly folds of your shar-pei’s skin, especially when they are young, is a good practice to integrate during grooming time to monitor for pyoderma.

How to be the best pet parent for a Chinese shar-pei?

You should understand the Chinese shar-pei before deciding to add one to your family. If the breed is the right for you, you’ll have a strong, dedicated new family member.

Pet parent education is important at all stages of the process. You can find plenty of additional resources at our Spot Pet Insurance Blog!

Basic training and behavior etiquette for your Chinese shar-pei

Training a shar-pei is not the easiest endeavor and may present challenges for novice owners. The breed can be strong-willed but also clever and mischievous.

Here are some tips to help with training your shar-pei:

What types of foods should Chinese shar-peis never eat?

Be sure to monitor your dog’s diet closely, especially when it comes to foods that are toxic to dogs.

Here are some foods to avoid:

Exercising tips to keep your Chinese shar-pei staying fit and healthy

This breed has relatively low energy and low playfulness. However, like all dogs, they still need some exercise to stay healthy and happy.

While they are usually content with moderate exercise, they can also thrive with more intense routines.

Their intelligence also makes them well suited to sports such as agility, rally, obedience, and tracking. Participating in sports together can help strengthen the bond between pet and parent, as well.

Chinese shar-pei life stages

Puppy: 0 - 1 year

Adult: 1 - 7 years

Senior: 7 years - end of life

We hope you find the perfect breed to fit your furry family, whether it be the Chinese shar-pei or another!