Breed Profile

DESCRIPTION

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a playful, active, dominant, and brave breed. It is very loyal to its handler. The Chinese Shar-Pei name roughly translates to "draping sand paper like skin" in Chinese where it was known as the "Chinese Fighting Dog". In 1978 the Guinness Book of Records listed it as the world's rarest dog. Today there is a renewed interest in Shar-Pei as a unique family pet. It is suited for both urban and city living, but it does not kennel well. Chinese Shar-Pei dogs have wrinkled, loose skin. This is a well-mannered, friendly dog with an easygoing nature, but may show signs of aggression towards other dogs. Chinese Shar-Pei dogs have blue-black tongues, a characteristic only found in the Chow Chows and the Thai Ridgebacks, which may suggest a common ancestry.

TEMPERAMENT

Chinese Shar-Pei puppies and dogs are easy-going, calm, independent, and devoted. The Shar-Pei is an intelligent dog that does not always follow orders slavishly, needing a confident, experienced handler. This breed tends to be stubborn and bold; it needs firm, but gentle and extremely consistent training. If you are too uncertain, too inconstant, too soft, or too mild in the dog's eyes, the Shar-Pei will take over as the boss. Chinese Shar-Pei puppies and dogs may refuse commands from family members who have not established leadership over the dog. They bond with their family, but are not unfriendly toward strangers. They make very good guard-dogs. Mixing other dogs can sometimes be a problem; early socialization is a must. This dog is very clean and almost housebreak itself. Chinese Shar-Pei puppies and dogs generally hate water and try as hard as they can to avoid it. Chinese Shar-Pei puppies grow very quickly and must be fed accordingly. The Shar-Pei tends to slobber, especially when in pain. It is important to find a reputable breeder when seeking a Shar-Pei. A lot of this breeds 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.

GROOMING

Short, straight, bristly, no undercoat on loose skin. Chinese Shar-Pei dogs should be brushed regularly. Their coat is never trimmed. Attention must be paid to their skin to ensure that no irritations exist within the folds. Regular massaging and brushing and with a bristle brush will keep the coat in top condition.

HEALTH

The Chinese Shar Pei is a high maintenance dog. Chronic skin problems, in-turned eyelids (entropion) and allergies are common health problems. Other health concerns include amyloidosis, cancer, immune system problems, Shar Pei fever, hip displaysia, patellar luxation and ear problems.

EXERCISE

Regular exercise on a leash is necessary for Chinese Shar-Pei puppies and dogs.

TRAINING

Firm training and socialization are required at a young age to prevent aggression as an adult.

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