Chinese Shar-Pei

Quick Description: Breeds

The Chinese Shar-Pei name roughly translates to "draping sand paper like skin" in Chinese where he was known as the "Chinese Fighting Dog". In 1978 the Guinness Book of Records listed him as the world's rarest dog. A one family dog, he is suited for both urban and city living, but he does not kennel well. Once used for fighting he is now a well-mannered, friendly dog with an easy going nature, but may show aggression towards other dogs.

pets

Weight: 35 - 40 lbs

Height: 18 - 20 inches

Colors: Solid colors only, black, red, light fawn, dark fawn or cream.

Coat: Short, straight, bristly, no undercoat on loose skin.

Temperment: Chinese Shar-Peis are independent, aloof.

With Children: Most are good as they are family oriented.

With Pets: Early socialization minimizes natural dog and interspecies aggression.

Watch-dog: High, aloof and watchful, their sober expression tends to make strangers wary.

Guard-dog: High, has a guard-dog temperament, but will become friendly with regular visitors.

Care and Training: Attention must be paid to the skin of the Chinese Shar-Pei to ensure that no irritations exist within the folds. Regular massaging and brushing with a bristle brush will keep the coat in top condition. Teeth need regular cleaning and toenails need to be clipped every ten days. Regular exercise on a leash is necessary for Chinese Shar-Peis. Firm training and socialization are required at a young age to prevent aggression as an adult.

Learning Rate: High, they are clever and intuitive but may be manipulative. Training should be with a firm hand and determined handler.

Activity: Varies, some are athletes, some prefer to be sedentary.

Living Environment: Best as a member of the family, they do not kennel well.

Health Issues: High maintenance dog. Chronic skin problems, in-turned eyelids (entropion) and allergies.

Life Span: 7 - 12 years

Litter Size: 4 - 6

Country of Origin: China

History: The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient breed that has existed for centuries in the southern provinces of China, dating back to the Han Dynasty of 202 B.C - 220 B.C. They were originally recognized as a fighting breed but was also were used to hunt, herd and offer protection. Chinese Shar-Peis almost became an extinct breed but there was a renewed interest in the sixties. Recognized by the Hong Kong Kennel Club in 1968, the Shar-Pei is now a popular pet. The Shar-Pei has a blue black tongue a characteristics only found in the Chow Chow and the Thai Ridgeback which may suggest a common ancestry. First Registered by the AKC: 1991, AKC Group: Non-Sporting, Class: Non-Sporting, Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), KC (GB), UKC

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