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Chinese Shar-Pei

Breed Profile

The Chinese Shar-Pei hails from Kwangtung Province in China around 200 BC. The words ‘Shar-Pei’ mean sandy coat, referring to the rough texture of the breed’s coat. Chinese Shar-Peis served as guard dogs, hunters, fighters, workers, and companions for peasants and farmers. Most Chinese dogs were killed after the Communist revolution, but the Shar-Pei was kept alive by breeders in Taiwan and Hong Kong, who brought it to America.

Temperament

All Shar-Pei puppies require early socialization with children, strangers, and other animals in their surroundings.  Due to their suspicious nature, the Shar Pei makes an excellent guard dog. It is a very independent and reserved breed. Nevertheless, the Shar Pei is extremely devoted, loyal and affectionate to its family and is amenable to accepting strangers if properly trained at a young age. However, if poorly socialized or trained, it can become especially territorial and aggressive.

Color & Coat

Coat: It has a sandpaper like coat and is very wrinkly skinned especially on the head and face and has a blue-black tongue color and a muzzle shaped like that of a hippo.

Color: Colors include black, blue, cream, fawn, red-fawn, red, sable, apricot, chocolate, and isabella.

Living Environment

The Chinese Shar-Pei will fare well in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is moderately active indoors and will do reasonably OK without a yard. The Shar-Pei is sensitive to warm weather, which can be attributed to the many wrinkles on its head keeping the heat. However, on hot days, he is not a happy camper and needs shade. Remember to hydrate him at all times and keep water at his disposal. Provided they get their daily fix of exercise, they will be at peace indoors. It is important to bear in mind that this breed is not suitable for kids. In isolation, this dog breed might not be the best option for kids. However, to reduce the risks, have the puppy grow up alongside with kids to provide it with plenty of pleasant experiences with them.

Health

Compared to other breeds, Shar Peis are particularly prone to  developing atopic dermatitis, a chronic allergic skin disease, often times leading to allergy-induced skin infections. Shar Peis are also at increased risk of demodicosis, a disease which happens when Demodex canis mites proliferate and cause skin irritation, inflammation and infection.