All about sharpei

Shar Pei is a truly amazing breed of dog. Its four-legged representatives have a unique appearance that always attracts the views of others. They can not be confused with any other dog. Today we will take a closer look at these funny and charming pets.

Before proceeding to a direct acquaintance with the handsome Sharpeis, it is worthwhile to thoroughly understand the history of their origin.

A large number of different dog breeds originate from China, and Shar Pei are no exception. Even in their external characteristics, these pets are somewhat reminiscent of a well-mannered, intelligent and restrained Chinese emotion.

There is an opinion that Shar Pei descend from the most ancient mastiffs and smooth-haired chow-chows. However, this is evidenced solely by the features of the anatomy and certain similar character traits of these pets. There is only one exact statement that was obtained by studying the Sharpei DNA - they have been around for more than 3 thousand years.

The history of Sharpei, which was saved on paper, is quite interesting and entertaining. For centuries, these dogs have been distributed only on the coast of the South China Sea and in the provinces of southern China. In the III-II century BC, Shar Pei were recognized as the most popular and in-demand among Chinese peoples. This is confirmed by the numerous clay figurines that were discovered during excavations of ancient Chinese tombs. On the latter one could find images of slightly frowned dogs with folds characteristic of Shar-Pei on the skin.

For several centuries, this breed has remained very popular. Moreover, Shar Pei were in demand not only among members of the ruling dynasty, but also among ordinary workers and peasants. In the 30s of the last century Shar Pei were at the peak of their popularity. In that period, a funny animal with funny folds could be seen in almost every family. The situation has undergone major changes in 10 years. At that time, the Communist Party came to power in China. Politicians came to the conclusion that having pets is a real luxury. As a result, Mao Zedong ordered the mass extermination of cats and dogs, in which there was no need for the proletariat.

The breed was on the verge of extinction when World War II began. Cold and hunger hit the Sharpey population even more. There is evidence that at the very beginning of the 1950s, very few pets of this breed remained in China. Only in 1971, the first Shar-Pei was forwarded to Novaya Zemlya. There, a dog of Chinese origin was so fond of his breeder and all his acquaintances that his photograph was printed in a popular magazine. Under the photo was the caption: "The last Shar Pei remaining in the world." Activists and breeders decided to use all their forces to restore this amazing breed.

Despite the fact that the process of reviving the breed was able to start, the existence of Shar-Pei still remained a big question. As a result, it was decided to cross these individuals with all the breeds that had at least some similar features with them. It took several decades to get a little bit in shape the common gene pool of Sharpey.

Standards of this breed were adopted only in 1976. At the same time, her first purebred pedigree was derived. At the moment, dogs of this unusual breed are crazy popular in Europe and America.

It is worth noting that Shar Pei visited the pages of the Red Book. This breed of dog at one time was the rarest. Then (and it was 1978), these pets were very expensive. It was possible to find copies, the price for which reached several thousand dollars.

Shar Pei are very cute and cute creatures that can fall in love at first sight. They are not very large and unusual features with characteristic folds. However, this information is too small to make a decision about the purchase of such a pet. Let us consider in detail what other standards of this breed exist.

• The growth of purebred "Chinese" can range from 44 to 51 cm, and weight - from 18 to 35 kg. The average life expectancy of these pets is not the greatest - only 10 years.
• Sharpeys head should be slightly wider than the body. The skull is rather wide and has a characteristic flat structure.
• Sharpei's nose is quite wide. It has a large size, should not be narrowed to the tip.
• The folds that distinguish Shar-Pei from most other breeds should not only be on the head of the animal. They are also present on the face of Shar-Pei, namely, on the nose and cheeks.
• The nose has a characteristic pigment - it can be either black, or be in tune to the main color of the body. Nostrils wide.
• The lips of Sharpey are naturally fleshy. The tongue and gums have an unusual blue color. Pink-spotted pigmentation is also allowed. If there is a language with a uniform pink color, this will be considered a rejection of the breed.
• Eyes Sharpey should have almond shape. They are planted deeply and have a characteristic coarse expression.
• The ears of these dogs are small and triangular in structure. They are set high and slightly rounded. The base of the ear is always broad and fleshy. It is the most tightly pressed against the skull. If the ears are erect, this will be considered a serious flaw and inconsistency with the standard.
• The jaw is well developed and has power. Bite has a scissor structure.
• Limbs are flat and wide, parallel to each other. There should be no folds. All movements of a purebred animal should be light, without any extra weight.
• The tail of the thoroughbred representatives of the breed is narrow to the tip. It should be round and dense, but in moderation. Sharpeys tail set high enough. It is either bent, or thrown to the side or back.
• The coat is very short. Hair length should not exceed 2.5 cm. Distinguishing feature - there is no undercoat. The skin of the dog is collected in many folds. This is another distinctive characteristic of purebred Sharpei. There are no serious requirements for their color - it can be almost anything.
• The body of Sharpey should be muscular, harmoniously developed. Abrupt transitions should not be. The body itself has a compact constitution. The chest is deep and has a large width. The length of the neck is average. This part of the animal's body is powerful enough. The back is short and the loin is strong.

Representatives of this ancient breed are distinguished by the fact that from the first days in the new house they try to dominate and demonstrate their leadership. The nature of these pets is not the easiest. For this reason, Sharpey is not recommended to start people who do not have commanding qualities and a sufficient amount of free time.

If in relation to Shar-Pei to show extra softness and loyalty, then in the end the dog will feel like a leader. Of course, nothing good will come of it - the pet will behave too arrogantly and capriciously, subordinating the household to itself. Under no circumstances should such effects be tolerated. Moreover, all family members should be equally strict with such a dog. It is impossible for one person to punish and teach the pet, while the other constantly lisps with him and forgives everything.

Despite the displeased expression of the muzzle, Shar Pei is an animal friendly and affectionate (of course, with proper upbringing). These pets love to be in large companies. And it can be not only adults, but also children. Properly educated and socialized four-legged households will be treated very kindly by the household, but this does not mean that the dog will unconditionally fulfill all your whims and demands on the first call. From the first days of life, these pets seek to be independent. For all his years, Shar Pei will be guided only by his own thoughts and goals.

It should be borne in mind that Shar Pei is very wary of any manifestation of attention in relation to his person, especially if the initiative comes from an outsider. Sharpei aliens are often not allowed to come close to themselves, much less allow themselves to be stroked or stroked. This is another reason for the need to deal with the socialization of such a dog. To raise a puppy is required literally from the first days of its appearance in the house. To interfere in the process of adaptation of a Shar-Pei, his desire may be in an absolutely calm and peaceful atmosphere.

Like other Asian breeds, the Shar Pei are owners of unsurpassed intuition. Some breeders claim that these pets are true four-legged psychologists. They can seamlessly capture the mood of the owner and his family members. At first glance, Shar Pei recognizes a threat from another person or animal.

With respect to other members of their own species, Shar Pei often behave quite aggressively. TOIn addition, it must be borne in mind that these pets can behave fearfully. Especially frightening Shar Pei is not worth it even during games. For him it will be more stress.

Do not leave sharpei alone with children. Of course, the pet will not rush at them or hurt, but we must not forget that the Shar Pei have an impenetrable character and always act as they see fit.

Sharpei are divided into separate varieties based on different characteristics. For example, depending on the length of the coat, these animals are distinguished:

• horse - these pets have rather coarse hair, the length of which does not exceed the mark of 1 cm;
• Brush - these long-haired dogs have soft hair 10 cm long all over their bodies, and in the neck and tail area the fur can reach up to 25 cm;
• “Bear wool” - dogs fall under such a category, the coat of which is soft, wavy, and the length of their hair does not exceed 2.5 cm (this type is non-standard).

Dogs with characteristic folds differ not only in structure, but also in wool color. There are not only gray or red animals. The main category includes pets whose coat has such colors:

• deer;
• cream;
• red deer;
• sable
• the black;
• blue;
• isabella.

There is another group of pets whose color is called dilutny. The fur of these four-legged comrades has the following colors:

• cream;
• apricot;
• red;
• purple
• chocolate;
• isabella.

There are also dogs with non-standard colorings. For example, these types include:

• albinos with white coat;
• spotty sharpei;
• black-faced individuals.

We should also highlight the American Shar-Pei. It has some differences from purebred Chinese individuals. American dogs are very small pets. They are smaller in size than the Chinese. Yes, and they are lower in height.

There are no less charming mini-sharpei. These are interesting dwarf dogs that do not have their own history. They are descended from their Chinese counterparts. Otherwise, these animals are called minipay.

From relatives of standard sizes dwarf Shar Pei is almost no different. Adult dogs of this species in height can reach 42-44 cm at the withers. There are cases when dwarf individuals by 7 months make a sharp jump in growth and grow to their standard counterparts. It is then that a reasonable question arises: why did this breed have to be divided into two separate species, if they have so many similarities? Here we must bear in mind that these dogs are divided according to the regional principle.

If you have decided that you want to get such a charming friend and take into account the peculiarities of his “iron” character, then you should choose the right puppy of this breed. To begin with, you will need to find a truly reliable and trusted breeder who can, together with the baby, provide you with all the necessary certificates and documents.

Once charming plush puppies appear before you, you will need to focus on their specific parameters in order to make the right choice.

• It is advisable to buy puppies, whose age ranges from 1.5 to 2 months.
• If you buy a standard Shar-Pei, then you should pay attention to the size of the puppy you choose. A small wrinkled pet should not be too large or too small.
• The ears and eyes of the baby must be clean, without mucus, black spots and other similar things. The presence of such secretions may indicate that the puppy is not very healthy.
• The fur of a small pet should be perfectly clean and well-groomed.
• Pay attention to the puppy's physique. He must be well-fed. Sticking ribs should not be.
• A healthy Shar Pei puppy will behave quite actively and playfully. Too sluggish and sickly looking individuals can actually be carriers of certain diseases.
• Kids' appetite should be good.
• Puppies in no case should not have any defects or lameness.
• If you notice a soft protruding growth on the puppy's abdomen, then you have an umbilical hernia. Of course, healthy individuals should not have it.
• The heads of the puppies should have a characteristic square shape, and their tongue should be blue.
• It would be nice to look at the parents of puppies.

Choose only bona fide breeders, contact only proven kennels with a good reputation. Ask for all the documentation that should go along with the puppy. Choosing your favorite pedigree baby, it is desirable to talk with the breeder on the topic of nutrition and care for a small Shar-Pei.Ask all your questions, if you have not previously dealt with this breed, so that at first you do not make any mistakes.

Charpey do not need too complicated and expensive care. It is enough to comb them from time to time using a special brush (such ones are sold in many pet shops). In this way, you can take care of the dog's coat and its skin, since dead cells will be removed during the combing process. This will improve the blood circulation of the skin.

It is necessary to take into account the fact that the ears of Sharpey need special attention. Be as careful as you bathe your wrinkled, four-legged friend. It is advisable not to wash the Shar-Pei's head, otherwise water may enter the auricles. As a result, this will lead to the development of a large number of quite serious and dangerous diseases. Many of the diseases that can occur after such omissions do not affect representatives of other breeds of dogs.

It is necessary to bathe Sharpey monthly. During bath procedures, it is desirable to use a special rubber brush. In this way, you will take care of a faster wool replacement process. The skin of wrinkled dogs is very sensitive, so you should use only specialized detergents. Gently wash all the folds on the dog's body, and then dry them thoroughly with a hairdryer (the air temperature should not be too high).

We can not forget about the haircut claws Sharpei. It is necessary to resort to such hygienic procedures as required. In most cases, claws must be cut no more than a couple of times a month. To do this, use a special clipper. Such devices are sold in most pet stores.

Every day, sharpei eyes clean with a damp cloth. Be sure to remove accumulated mucus from the corners of the eyes. If we neglect such actions, serious eye inflammation may develop. Such problems will have to be solved in a veterinary clinic. It is better to spend a couple of minutes treating the pet's eyes than spending a lot more time and money in treating advanced inflammatory processes.

Sharpei need physical exertion. It is necessary to bring such a pet for long walks. The more the dog uses up energy outside the walls of the house, the calmer he will behave upon return.

Note - Shar Pei is very sensitive to the effects of ultraviolet rays. In the heat, their head may simply overheat. That is why it is recommended to bring the dogs of this breed to the street only in the mornings and evenings, when solar activity is quite insignificant.

Sharpei can be kept in the apartment without any problems. These dogs are not so impressive size. Regardless of the conditions in which the pet lives, he needs to prepare all the necessary.

• It doesn't matter where Shar Pei lives - in a house or on the street. In both cases, the requirements for the arrangement of his personal space will remain the same. Take care of a good and fairly wide overview of the area from a dog lounger or booth (this may be a courtyard or a room in an apartment). From Sharpey get very good guards. The territory that the owner has entrusted to the dog must be seamlessly viewed by him. If you ignore this rule, then Shar Pei simply will not spend enough time in the corner that you have allocated for it.
• Make sure that Shar Pei is not exposed to drafts. If you keep a pet in the winter outside, be sure to ensure that its enclosure is properly insulated. If we consider as a whole, Shar-Pei usually doesn’t care where it is. Its fur provides an easy cool in the summer and can warm up in a cold cold.However, on the street Shar Pei can not be kept if you have not prepared for him a warmed enclosure or a house.

Proper nutrition Sharpei - the guarantee of his health. These pets can be fed as ready-made feeds that are sold in the store, as well as natural products prepared by the owner in advance.

If you decide to raise a puppy in store feeds, then you should immediately realize that unnecessary savings here will be inappropriate. In no case do not buy for the Shar Pei products of economy class. Such food will not exactly benefit the animal body, but the harm can be very serious. Usually these options look bright and are sold in all stores. The budget products contain many chemicals, flavor enhancers and aromas, preservatives, the origin of which is not indicated at all.

The most suitable for Shar-Pei are premium and super-premium elite feed. Of course, they are more expensive than the budget, but they include all the vitamin complexes necessary for animals, minerals and microelements. Usually there are not a lot of cheap substitutes for natural ingredients. Such feeds have a positive effect on the pet's condition.

If you plan to feed your pet with not ready, but with natural products, then you should know that of all types of meat it is desirable to give Shar-Pei chicken. But be extremely careful: dogs of this breed are allowed to give only chicken neck, head, back or offal. Do not feed sharpei fillet pieces, thighs and shins - these products are prohibited.

In addition, Shar-Pei, like most dogs of other breeds, in no case can not give river fish, sweets in any form, baking, salted, smoked, pickled and other dishes with the addition of various spices or flavor enhancers.

As soon as you get such a wrinkled puppy, it is advisable to visit the vet first. Consult with a specialist what feed is better to give the baby. Let the veterinarian prepare the correct diet for your dog. This way you will avoid the frequent mistakes that the owners make by composing a menu for their pedigree four-legged companions.

Like any other dog, Shar Pei must be properly educated and socialized. Without this, the pet will behave very badly, will not listen to the hosts. In the end, this will lead to a large number of problems that a person quickly get tired of fighting.

Fortunately, shar pei are animals with well developed intelligence. They can be quickly taught to new teams. The dog learns the basic options in a short time, but only if he wants it. If the owner in time does not show the dog that he dominates, then the pet will quickly take this place in their relationship. It is extremely important to take into account that when raising a Shar-Pei there must be rigor and discipline. True, and go too far should not. Do not shout at your pet with all their might, you should not resort to physical punishment either.

Socialize and educate a Shar Pei puppy from the first days of its appearance in a new house. If you take time or neglect such actions altogether, an adult animal will behave aggressively and disobediently. Usually it is not possible to re-educate such pets.

I must say that the Sharpey’s immunity is quite strong, especially compared to dogs of other popular breeds.However, there are some diseases that sharpei most often suffer from. Let's get acquainted with their list.

• Allergic reactions. Most often, such a problem occurs if the animal has been in contact with an allergen, has been fed the wrong food, or if the food chosen by the host has not approached. The dog may begin to vomit, the temperature will rise, the hair will fall out, puffiness will occur.
• Eye disease. Usually they occur if you do not clean the eyes of the dog, which ultimately leads to the development of inflammatory processes and even their injury. Because of this, there is swelling of the eyelids, blurred vision.
• Ear infections. Such problems occur, if the owners do not monitor the purity of the ears of their pet, do not remove any contamination from there. Because of this, discharge will accumulate in the ears of the Shar-Pei, scabies begin, and hearing may deteriorate. If you notice that the dog has started brushing his ears too often, this should be a signal for action.
• Entropy (the so-called twisting century). This disease is caused by a genetic predisposition. It often leads to rubbing the cornea over which skin folds hang.

If only you have noticed that your pet is sick with something, then you should immediately go for a consultation with a veterinarian. It is not recommended to act willfully and conduct experiments on Sharpei health. Yes, they have good immunity, but this does not mean that you will not bring even more harm to these dogs by choosing the wrong treatment. Yes, and you can hardly make the correct diagnosis.

Charpey suited a variety of nicknames. Consider some interesting options for pedigree girls:

• Isa;
• Chema;
• Lana;
• Dorris;
• Mimi;
• Mary;
• Candy;
• Bark;
• Wendy;
• Megan;
• Cleo;
• Bell;
• Sabina;
• Sheri;
• Christie;
• Luli;
• Tina;
• May;
• Baby;
• Sali;
• Nancy.

For a boy, you can choose an interesting name from the following:

• Timosh;
• Pablo;
• Archie;
• Kiwi;
• Paco;
• Gin;
• Brooke;
• Tito;
• Tom;
• Nile;
• Tosh;
• Dani;
• Maurice;
• Bruce;
• Oscar;
• Bing;
• Nathan;
• Zeus;
• Leicester.

Shar-Pei has long ceased to be rare Red Book animals. Today, these pets can be met in many families. Usually these dogs conquer people with an unusual, but very cute appearance.

On sharpey breeders leave a variety of reviews. Consider what good qualities in dogs of this breed their owners notice:

• first of all, all owners note the beautiful appearance of these animals;
• calm nature is another reason for the joy of breeders;
• according to the owners of the Sharpey, they are very affectionate and loyal to their owners;
• many small factories noted that their pet easily gave in to training and education;
• Sharpey’s intelligence level is noticed by the majority of their owners;
• these dogs can be kept in a simple city apartment;
• good temper, no extra aggression.

Many owners claim that Sharpey does not have any cons at all - only solid pluses. However, there are those who have noticed a lot of negative qualities in this breed.

• The maintenance of Sharpey takes a lot of money. Feed for them are expensive.
• Most of the owners are dissatisfied with the Sharpey's overwhelming stubbornness. If such a dog does not want to do something, it will be impossible to make it.
• At times, the Shar-Pei are very harmful.
• These dogs snore.
• Although the Shar Pei have good immunity, many of their owners are faced with the fact that their pets were sick of the diseases typical for them - dysplasia, allergies and bloat.
• Cowardly behavior is another quality that does not suit the owners of Sharpey.
• Some people argue that it is impossible to leave a pet alone with children, because the animal does not behave in such a way that it can be trusted.

Yes, there are plenty of flaws in this breed too.Most negative reviews people leave about the complex nature of these pets. Many breeders (especially beginners) find it incredibly difficult to cope with the excessive waywardness and stubbornness of wrinkled quadrupeds.

Of course, many problems with sharpei can be avoided, if properly educate them, showing considerable patience, diligence and leadership qualities. In addition, it is necessary to monitor the health of the pet and take all necessary actions in time so as not to trigger the situation.

Before you cut the claws of Shar Pei, they must first be carefully examined. So you can see inside the vein. When shearing is very important not to hurt her.

Teach such a dog to hygienic procedures from an early age. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to care for an adult pet, because it will violently resist.

Walk a dog in a muzzle and keep it on a leash. Shar Pei often behave very aggressively towards other animals. If you keep the situation under control, there will be no serious problems during the walk.

Note - Shar Pei does not like to stay home alone for a long time. If the dog is still in such circumstances, he will not be very naughty without you. However, you still need to try not to force your pet to be bored and to yearn for its owner.

The following video is all about the Shar Pei dog breed.