Chinese Shar Pei

Description

The Chinese Shar Pei is a popular breed of large dog that originated in Canada. It belongs to the Non-sporting breed family which is a diverse group of dogs notable for their sturdy built as well as distinct personality and appearance. Shar Peis have been bred to become hunting and guarding dogs. The breed has a wrinkled skin and a unique horse-coat that is rough and very prickly. Its colors usually come in all solid shades as well as sables.

Height and Weight

Both the male and female members of the Chinese Shar Pei breed normally stand a height of 18 to 20 in at the withers. They also commonly have a weight of 40 to 55 lbs.

Temperament

Shar Peis, in general, are very calm, loyal, and affectionate pets. They are delightful and easy-going companions. They relate well with their family owners, and tend to be quite friendly even with strangers. Early socialization makes them sociable with children and other animals. Shar Peis are undemanding pets that do well even without constant attention. They are active, playful, and independent, though may not like water.

The breed is also known to be intelligent, dominant, protective, and brave; making them good watchdogs. In addition, Shar Peis need a firm but calm handler who is consistent with rules.

Grooming

Shar Peis are generally easy to groom. They need regular brushing, though their coat does not require trimming. Their “bush” coat sheds minimally all throughout the year, but their “horse” coat shed only during the molting periods. Harsh-coated Shar Peis, nonetheless, tend to shed very heavily. Bathing the breed at least once a week, and brushing their coat every day is necessary to get rid of their dead hair. Cleaning their wrinkled face and other skin folds also needs to be done on a regular basis.

Health Concerns

Members of the Chinese Shar Pei breed generally have an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years. Like any other dog, the breed is also known to plague with a few health conditions. These include eye problems, skin disorders, kidney trouble, and chronic heart diseases.

Best Environment

Because Chinese Shar Peis like to chase livestock and other smaller pets, they need to be provided with a securely fenced yard to play. They require a cool temperature in order to survive and happy. The breed is also not good for outdoor-living. Nonetheless, they will do fine in living in an apartment provided that the Shar Pei pet gets to receive sufficient exercise. Because they are a highly energetic breed, daily brisk walking is, at the very least, has to be done. Owners should avoid overly exercising them because of their oversensitivity to heat.