The Shar-Pei
posted October 30, 2009 - 9:54am
Many dogs originally bred for specific work have become ideal companion pets. Unlike other breed groups, the non-sporting group has very little consistency in their personalities because they were originally bred to perform a variety of tasks. Before considering a member of the
non-sporting group, you should consult breed-specific books and speak to your veterinarian to get a sense of what your choice would be like.
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a member of this group. They generally make great companions. They are medium size at about 18 to 20 inches and weigh about 40 to 55 pounds. Their life expectancy is up to 10 years. This breed of dog performs well as a guard for the house and they are very loyal to their owners. Our wonderful furry friend Moose is a mix of red Shar-Pei and blond Labrador retriever. He is very loving, but is always on the watch around the house. When new people come to the door, they are asked to make friends with Moose before entering our home. When my sons or friends come to visit he gets excited and enjoys lots of attention.
The unique and ancient Chines Shar-Pei is thought to have originated in the southern area of China in the Kwun Tung Province. Statues bearing a strong resemblance to these dogs date back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC-AP 220). They were raised as general farm dogs and were prized by their owners.
Following WWII the Communist over threw China and the dog population declined. The survival of the Chinese Shar-Pei is due to the efforts of Matgo Law of Hong Kong who exported the first Shar-Pei to America during the 1960’s and early 70’s. It was Law’s appeal, which appeared in dog magazines in 1973 that begged canine fanciers in the U.S. to help save the Chinese Shar-Pei. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Chinese Shar-Pei in 1991 and its popularity has continued to climb.
The Chinese Shar-Pei is regal, alert, intelligent and dignified. He can appear to be independent, snobbish and standoffish with strangers. But, like our dog, Moose, the Chinese Shar-Pei is extremely devoted to his family. These dogs can be described as “people dogs,” preferring the companionship of humans to that of other dogs. He can be a loving family member with good self-esteem and acceptance of his position in the family “pack.” As always recommended the Chinese Shar-Pei should go through the appropriate training in an obedience class for your sake and that of your dog. A lovable and controllable companion is a valued family member.
The Chinese Shar-Pei is happy to sleep all day on the sofa, but enjoys events involving family members. They enjoy walking and jogging with their owners and our dog Moose loves to run when my husband Sandy takes his bicycle out for a spin.
The unique Chinese Shar-Pei is usually selected as a pet for its distinctive wrinkled features. The short, harsh coat, the loose skin covering the head and body, the small ears and an almost “hippopotamus” looking muzzle shape and high set tail give Shar-Pei that unique look. The excessive wrinkling is usually abundant in puppies, but limited in adult Shar-Peis to the head, neck and withers.
These dogs are very clean and almost housebreak themselves. Shar-Pei generally hates water and tries as hard as they can to avoid it. Puppies grow very quickly and must be fed accordingly. Mixing with other dogs can sometimes be a problem and socialization is important. Much of their personality and health depends on the lines it comes from. Good Shar-Pei lines will get along well with other dogs and will not have skin problems, which is a hereditary condition.
There is some health problems associated with Shar-Peis. Fevers of unknown origin or swollen hocks syndrome may be the early stages of amolydosis (kidney failure). One misconception is that the Shar-Pei has skin problems due to their wrinkles. Some Shar-Pei have skin problems, but it is not because the dog has wrinkles, but rather a hereditary condition.
The Chinese Shar-Pei will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Because of their padded head, the Shar-Pei is very sensitive to heat. Shade and water must always be available. Provided they get enough exercise, they will be very peaceful indoors.
The Shar-Pei should be brushed regularly, but never trim the coat. This breed does not have an undercoat. The "bush" coat sheds a little year round, but the "horse" coat tends to shed only during molting periods. Molting may leave the dog looking unkempt. Bathing about once a week and brushing the coat daily during this period will remove the old dead hair and allow the new coat to grow in. Some owners are allergic to the harsh coat.
The Chinese Shar-Pei is predisposed to a number of medical problems, so before obtaining one consider what is best for both you and the dog.
The information found in this article was obtained from “Dr. Ackerman’s Book of Shar-Pei” by Lowell Ackerman DVM. Before considering any dog check out the many breed specific books available.
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