Introduction
The Chinese Shar-Pei, also known as the Chinese Fighting Dog or the Shar Pei, is a breed of dog in the Non-Sporting Group. The Shar-Pei is usually immediately recognized by its wrinkled suit of skin and large facial wrinkles, and they are the only other breed, besides the Chow-Chow, that has a blue-black colored tongue.
This breed makes an excellent watch dog, but they require early socialization and training. The Chinese Shar-Pei was recognized by the AKC in the year 1992 and approved in the year 1998.
The average Chinese Shar-Pei stands a little 18 to 22 inches at the shoulders and weighs between 45 and 60 pounds. Their short thick coat should be brushed on a regular basis, and the folds of their skin need to be cleaned and checked frequently to avoid any serious skin infections from developing. They have a compact and sturdy body size, and they do not bark unless they feel the need to alert their owners or defend their territory.
Temperament
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a very loyal, loving, and intelligent dog. However, this dog is instinctively wary of strangers and it is a natural guard dog. While they are not a high energy dog, the Chinese Shar-Pei needs regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Due to its breed characteristics and size, pet owners of the Shar-Pei need to ensure that their dogs have been properly socialized and continually trained. Out of control Shar-Pei’s can be a danger, and if they are not socialized properly they can become aggressive. Training should be interesting and fun, because these intelligent dogs will get bored easily.
Health
The average lifespan of the Chinese Shar-Pei is between 8 and 10 years, and they are at increased risks for an excessive number of health conditions which pet owners should be aware of. These include entropion, allergy induced skin infections, and Shar-Pei fever.
History
The Chinese Shar-Pei is an old breed that could possibly be thousands of years old. The breed originated in China, and their name ‘Shar-Pei’ means “sand-paper-like coat.” The breed almost disappeared, but after recognition by the Hong Kong Kennel Club in the 1960’s their numbers began to increase and shortly thereafter they were imported into the U.S.
Chinese Shar-Pei
Quick Facts
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Weight: 45-60 lbs
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Height: 18-22 in
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Coat: short and thick
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Temperament: Loyal, loving, and intelligent
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Lifespan: 8-10 years