Read About Chinese Shar-pei

Chinese Shar-pei has lots of wrinkles and a big head, but make great companions. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Chinese Shar-pei Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium sized breed

2. Weight:

   45 - 60 lbs.

3. Coat:

   Short, loose skin covering head and body. It has been described as a "horse coat" and should not exceed lengths of one inch. This is the distinguishing feature of this breed.

4. Shedding:

   The Shar-pei sheds very little.

5. Temperament:

   Calm, intelligent, independent and standoffish with strangers.

6. Obedience:

   Without proper training they have a very willful, obstinate and dominant nature.

7. Ease of Training:

   Training can be a challenge because of their intelligence, but with obedience training, they can be easier to train.

8. Way with Children:

   Good with children

Chinese Shar-pei -- Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Non-Sporting/1992

2. Size & Weight:

   18-20 inches, 45-55 lbs.

3. Coat:

   The harsh, straight coat is one of the distinguishing features of the breed. It has loose skin and wrinkles covering the head, neck and body.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The Shar-pei has a large head that proportionate to its body that is covered with wrinkles on the forehead and side of the face. Its muzzle is broad and thick with a "hippopotamus" muzzle shape.

5. Body:

   The body is compact with a medium length neck with loose skin on the neck and throat. The chest is broad and deep. Its tail sets high and is thick and round at the base, tapering to a fine point that curls over or to either side of the back.

6. Colors:

   Solid colors and sable are acceptable. The solid colors may have shading, primarily darker, down the back and on the ears.

7. Life Expectancy:

   8-10 years

8. Popularity:

   The Shar-pei has increased in popularity since it almost became extinct.

9. Habitat:

   In the past, the Shar-pei was bred to be a guard dog and lived outdoors. The current dogs require a controlled environment for it to become contend. The life of the Shar-pei may be shortened when stress occurs because of health problems and temperament changes. They are considered a high maintenance dog even when living indoors.

Chinese Shar-pei -- Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   China

2. Historical Information:

   The Chinese Shar-Pei has an incomplete history. But it has been traced back to a Chow-Chow that had a blue-black tongue which resembled the current Shar-pei. Following the creation of the communist nation, People's Republic of China, dogs were rare and this breed all but disappeared. Breeding began again in Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

   Chinese Shar-pei -- Defining Characteristics

3. Behavior:

   They are very clean and may become bored with repetitious activities. They do not like water and will try to avoid it.

4. Habits:

   Many of them will snort, grunt, and snore loudly. Some pet owners find it nerve-wracking. They are not barkers, but will slobber when they eat or drink.

Chinese Shar-pei -- Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Most of their health issues can be addressed with preventive care. This bred may have eyelid problems that are caused by the facial wrinkles rubbing against the eye resulting in erosions, ulcers, and even permanent blindness. The wrinkles also cause bacteria to incubate between the creases of the skin and may start to smell. Also,this breed may have respiratory problems, problems with their ears, gastrointestinal, hypothyroidism, luxating patella, elbow or hip dysplasia, and kidney problems.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Needs moderate exercise.

3. Grooming Needs:

   Needs frequent bathing at least once a week, daily brushing and a clean environment.

4. Travel Needs:

   It is important when traveling by vehicle that the dog is secured in a crate or harness. This will limit injury while traveling. Make sure that you take cleaning supplies in case of an accident. You will need to stop periodically for bathroom breaks for your pet. Contact the lodging facility to see if they are pet friendly. Also, you will need to take adequate food supply and water for the trip. In case of emergency, locate a veterinarian. You will need to provide medical records for your pet.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   When rubbed backward, the prickly coat can be uncomfortable, and even cause welts on the skin of an occasional sensitive person. This breed socializes better if the pet or children are raised together or given adequate time to socialize together.

Chinese Shar-pei -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Check the coat to see if it appears healthy and that it does not have any baldness or has an odor. Look at the eyes for any defects and check the cleanliness of the facility. Make sure that its tail is curled. Look at the knees for any looseness, and the eyes and ears for any infections.

2. What you will Need for a New Puppy:

   You will need to locate a veterinarian in your area. Make sure that you have a crate or doghouse. You will need quality food and fresh water; food and water dish, flea and tick supplies, identification tag and a leash or collar.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   Ensure that all low-lying cords and wiring are removed or secured from entanglement. Remove all plants and children toys. Make sure that cabinets are locked and food is removed from accessible areas. Close all trashcans with a tight lid and secure garbage left indoors.