Each breed of dogs was originally bred for a specific purpose - to protect something, to transport, hunt, and so on. For example, Shar Pei is one of the ancient breeds of guard dogs. The roots of this breed goes to China. During the excavations on the territory of the imperial palaces of ancient Chinese dynasties, figurines of dogs were found that have many external similarities with sharpei.
Researchers suggest that this breed of dog was used as territory guards and hunting assistants. However, later this breed of dogs became regular participants of dog fights. The folds of this dog saved her from serious injury. In the 70s of the twentieth century, the Shar Pei were officially recognized by the American Kennel Association. Interestingly, back in the late 1970s, this breed of dog was in the Guinness Book of Records as the rarest breed of dog.
External signs
This dog breed stands out for its unusual appearance, which will help to easily distinguish them from other dog breeds. Their bright and specific feature - a large number of folds covering the entire surface of the body, especially a lot of them on the face.
Another characteristic feature is the purple language, which can also be found in the Chow Chow breed.
In ancient China, it was believed that it was due to the unusual color of the tongue that these dogs protect the houses from evil spirits with their barking.
There are the following types of colors Sharpey:
- the black - in its pure form there is extremely rare, most often black color is represented by some shade - dark brown, with a tint of brown, as well as olive;
- golden or sand - It is considered the most ancient coat color;
- red - there is a lot of shade of this color - from light red to mahogany;
- cream - there are shades from light beige to soft caramel color;
- sable - the wool of such a dog has a light grayish coating;
- chocolate - from milky to deep dark brown;
- blue - there are several shades - from light tones to more saturated.
There are more complex colors that combine several basic colors - apricot, red deer, isabella, purple and so on. Blue Shar Pei can have a unique shade of wool - from pale blue to almost asphalt color. This breed belongs to medium sized dogs. Their average height is 42–52 cm, and their weight is 16–38 kg, depending on the gender and physical activity of the dog. The head is rather large, with a flat skull.
On the face is characterized by the presence of densely located folds. The eyes are small, almond-shaped, have a dark color, look gloomy. The ears are small, dense, triangular, set wide apart. The neck is not long, quite powerful. The body is strong, toned, and puppies are characterized by a large number of folds, which stretch with age, remaining clear only on the face and neck. The blue sharpei hair is short and thick, rather stiff to the touch.
Traits
By their nature, blue shar-pei have a calm and measured character, although quite active and energetic. Model of behavior depends entirely on education. Depending on the conditions in which the puppy will grow, its character will develop - flexible, stubborn, sociable or passive to everything that happens.
The main thing is that such a dog will always be faithful to its owner and will become a good watchdog.
All members of this breed are distinguished by good intellectual abilities, and they are very proud and wayward. But they get along well with children, they are endowed with good endurance and patience.
To provoke Sharpey on aggressive actions can only maliciously tuned another dog. In case of danger, this dog will not only be able to stand up for itself, but also to defend its owner. In everyday life, such a dog is very docile and peace-loving.
Care
Those who decided to have a blue Shar-Pei puppy should be familiar with the basic rules of caring for this breed and the characteristics of its feeding. Like any other dog, you need to periodically clean the shar-pei with a brush with stiff bristles in order to brush out the wool.
When bathing, it is important to ensure that water does not get into the dog’s ears, as even a small amount of water trapped in the ear canals, can cause the development of various diseases. When bathing, it is necessary to wash all the folds well, and it is better to use shampoos designed specifically for this breed, due to the high sensitivity of the dog's skin.
After bathing with a towel, and better with a hairdryer, thoroughly dry the areas between the folds.
Blue Shar-Pei needs everyday exercise, long walks in the fresh air and communication with the owner. A dog that has actively spent time on the street will be calm and quiet at home.
Shar Pei is pretty sensitive to the sun, therefore, walking them is better in the morning and evening.
Nutrition should combine meat, various cereals and vegetables.
It is important to know that pork is forbidden, and chicken can cause severe allergies. When feeding with dry food, one should give preference to premium hypoallergenic and holistic feeds. It is better to feed the dog, combining dry mixes and canned food. Food Sharpey plays a key role in the normal life of the dog.
All about Shar Pei dogs, see the following video.