Shar Pei: breed characteristics, pros and cons

Shar Pei is one of the funniest breeds of dogs. This breed is characterized primarily by the presence of lovely folds of skin and an imperturbable expression of the muzzle. Behind this lies a real strong character that can be called ancient primitive might.

Today, Shar Pei is quite popular among those who appreciate strength and character in dogs.. In order to raise a true protector and a true friend from a pet, you need to properly educate and care for him. It is about how to take care of Sharpey, what positive and negative sides of character he possesses, and let's talk in this article.

Homeland Sharpey is ancient China. Thanks to archaeological investigations, it was certain that a breed appeared about 3,000 years ago. Their descendants are mastiffs and chow chows. Initially, these dogs were used as a shepherd and a guard.

Shar Pei refers to medium-sized dogs, which are characterized by a strong physique and developed muscles. Male significantly exceeds the height and weight of a bitch, his height can reach 50 centimeters, and weight is a maximum of 25 kilograms. The average life expectancy is 10 years. The distinctive features of the breed include the following:

• massive skull, which is wider than the body;
• the presence of folds - when a Shar Pei puppy is born, it is completely covered with folds, and with maturation they are smoothed and remain only on the face;
• the presence of a large black nose;
• dark eyes that are rather deep set;
• well developed jaws and black lips;
• wide and powerful paws;
• strong body;
• harsh short coat.

The breed standard also defines the color, which is the following:

• the black;
• blue;
• apricot;
• chocolate;
• redhead;
• purple
• ashen;
• cream;
• sable
• deer

It is an active and intelligent dog, which, despite its rather strict and tough character, treats family members quite well and with love. To unauthorized persons, a dog can show aggression only if it feels that a negative or a threat to the owners of the animal comes from them. Shar Pei is a very brave dog who protects his master to the last. Shar Pei dog is a true friend for children, he loves to play with them. But the child needs to be explained that the dog must be treated with respect, as the pet will not tolerate rudeness and bad attitude.

Sharpey peculiar leadership qualities, they are accustomed to dominate. The hierarchy for such a dog is a common thing. That is why, when a puppy lives in a family, he begins to "test" all of his "cohabitants" in order to understand whom to obey and whom you can manipulate.

Like any other dogs, Shar Pei have both positive and negative traits. Let's separately highlight both the pros and cons. It is worth highlighting several positive moments of the breed.

• Mind and intuition. The dog feels perfectly all family members, can distinguish their mood. For example, if a dog sees that its owner is saddened or saddened by something, it will surely show sympathy.As for the training, then you need to teach your pet to order from an early age.
• This defender. As mentioned earlier, Shar Pei are excellent defenders and will protect their relatives, even at the cost of life itself.
• Friendliness and playfulness. Shar Pei will relate to the person as he treats him. Dogs love to actively play and relax, but even with the most entertaining game, the animal necessarily controls itself and its actions. With them you need often and long walk in the fresh air.
• Unpretentious care. Sharpei does not need frequent combing, as it has short hair. Water procedures should be performed several times a year. After bathing, it is necessary to dry the dog with a hair dryer. Constantly only need to monitor the condition of the ears and eyes, brush your teeth with a special brush and care for the wool, which is in the folds.

It is also worth highlighting the negative side.

• Dominant character. This characteristic of the breed is strongly manifested in the attitude of the dog to other animals.
• These fighters. Shar Pei very often become the instigators of fights. They do not care that the enemy can be two times more than he. If it happens that your pet has been in a fight, it must be shown to the doctor.
• Are often sick. All diseases that are characteristic of Sharpei, are transmitted by heredity.
• Need a special diet. Sharpei often have allergic reactions to products. In most cases, the dog should be given exclusively special food, the cost of which is quite high.
• Harmful. To raise an obedient pet, you need to spend a lot of time training it.

Of course, to start a Shar-Pei or not is already a personal matter. But be sure to bear in mind that the size of the dog is rather big, so keeping it in a small apartment is impractical.

About the features of the breed, see the video below.