Shar Pei
Description
This
ancient breed originated in China and the Shar Pei was used to protect
its owner's and was also believed to have been used in dog fights.
Unfortunately because of its dominant tendencies this breed has been
prevented from achieving a broader popularity.
Temperament
The
very territorial Shar-Pei can be social with humans and are said to
prefer the company of humans rather than dogs. Even though the Shar Pei
is aloof and wary of strangers, they possess a very dominant temperament
and require firm training from an early age. It is important that any
owner must be experienced enough to hold control over the dog from the
outset.
Appearance
Height: 46-51cm
(18-20in)
Weight: 18-25kg
(40-55lb)
This
mid-size dog stands as tall as a boxer but much more square and compact.
The distinctive wrinkled folds of skin are most abundant whilst the dog
is a juvenile, however the wrinkles may not be apparent in very young
pups with the wrinkles becoming more apparent as the dog gets older when
it starts to approach full size and maturity. Eventually it will 'grow
into its skin' and the wrinkles will only be apparent on-and-forward-of
the shoulders, with some small wrinkling occurring on the tail dock. The
coarse coat of the Shar-Pei appears in two types, very short and prickly
and stands up away from the body or brush coat which is longer and
softer than the horse coat but still up-standing. These dogs can
appear in any solid colour except white.
Grooming
It is
handy to know that because the Shar-Pei does have a tendency to drool;
it would be wise to keep a face cloth handy for those messy moments.
The Shar Pei will moult twice yearly and all in all not much grooming
is usually required, and an intermittent wipe with a hand cloth will
usually suffice.
Life Expectancy
10–12 Years
Health Concerns
Because of their wrinkles the Shar-Pei is prone to skin disease and
dermatitis. An odour will generally accompany the disease. As a natural
moult does occur in the breed, some breeders say that this will
sometimes resemble the disease; however no odour should accompany the
natural moult. Eye problems can also occur as their deep-set eyes,
combined with the loose folds of skin hanging over the brow can also
result in entropion (turned-in eyelids). To prevent this, the brows can
be stitched back at three to four weeks of age, if it is seen that the
dog will likely suffer from entropion otherwise surgery may be required.
Suitability
There
is a need to make a commitment to training this breed as these dogs are
not for the first time dog owner because of their possible aggressive
tendencies. Because of the uniqueness of this breed they can be popular
with those who want something a bit different and with those who have
time to make the commitment in training and socialising the dog.
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