Chinese Shar Pei
Description
The Chinese Shar Pei we have today looks very different from the Shar Pei from the Guangdong Province of China where they came from and the Han Dynasty somewhere around 206 B.C. The Shar Pei was breed for herding, and protecting his farmers flocks, for hunting, guarding the home, and later for dog fighting. The loose skin aided the Shar Pei when it was hunting boar, and of course the loose skin made it difficult for another dog to get a good bite during a dog fight. Shar Pei stand between 18 and 20 in. and weigh between 40 and 55 lbs. They come in three coat types horse coat, brush coat and bear coat. Bear coat is not recognized by the AKC. The horse coat is rough, and bristly The brush coat has longer hair and a smoother texture. All coat types come in all solid colors and sables.
Temperament
If you socialize this dog early on with the members of the household including cats and children you should do fine. He can be a great companion for the right person, and they are excellent watch dogs. You will have to be a firm and diligent pack leader and trainer if your are going to have a successful relationship with this dog.
Grooming/Exercise
This dog needs constant brushing to keep his coat and skin healthy. The Bush coat sheds a little all the time, and the horse coat only sheds when its molting. You will need to bathe your Shar Pei at least once a week the breed isn’t fond of water so you will need to get them used to this bathing ritual early on. They need a great deal of exercise. A long walk for starters and a good healthy play session should help to keep him in shape. The Shar Pei will do well enough in a townhouse or condo as long as you see to their exercise needs.
Health
Life Expectancy is around 10 years.
Possible Issues
- Swollen Hocks Syndrome
- Kidney Failure
