Breed Info/Care/Health
HISTORY
Used for centuries in China as palace guards, fighting dogs, and farm dogs the Shar-Pei were close to extinction in 1970. In the 1940s the Chinese government began taxing dog owners. As a result, the number of Shar-Pei declined dramatically. In the early 1970s Mr. Matgo Law of Hong Kong pleaded with breeders in the United States to help save this rare breed. Fortunately, due to the enthusiastic response of breeders, the Shar-Pei no longer holds the title as the rarest dog in the world (Guiness Book of World Records, 1978). In fact, in 1988 the Chinese Shar-Pei was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and can now be seen strutting their stuff in the Non-Sporting Group.
Aside from the obvious wrinkled appearance of the Shar-Pei, they also have other distiguishing features not very common in the canine world. Their rough coat, multitude of beautiful colors, and blue-black tongue (or lavender in the dilutes) make the Shar-Pei truly unique. Flowered Shar-Pei (spotted) are not currently recognized for show by the AKC, but they are steadily increasing in popularity. They come in all of the beautiful shar-pei colors and in many patterns.
COATS
The name "Shar-Pei" means "sand-skin." There are three different coat types:
Horse Coat- Very short, somewhat rough. In general, horsecoats have a leaner build and are more active and outgoing than the other two coat types.
Brush Coat- No longer than one inch in length (most common).
Bear Coat- Long and more rare (not recognized for show in conformation by the AKC).
Cashel's first bear baby! A chocolate dilute mini doll!
Here is our Abby sticking out her tongue to kiss someone- notice her black tongue:)-
Toy, Miniature, Standard, Colossal: What's the Difference?
All categories of Shar-Pei are the same breed. The only difference is size.
Toy Shar-Pei measure less than 15 inches at the shoulder.
Miniature Shar-Pei measure 15 to under 18 inches.
Standard Shar-Pei measure in at 18-21 inches.
Colossal Shar-Pei measure in at more than 21 inches.
CARE
A few quick care tips:
1. Feed all-natural, high quality food and treats with no by-products, corn, wheat or soy.
2. Do not use chemicals on or around your Shar-Pei. If it is not safe for you to injest, inhale, or come into contact with- it is not safe for your Shar-Pei.
3. Keep puppy up to date on immunizations, wormings, and flea/tick control. I highly recommend using all-natural flea & tick control products.
4. Clean ears frequently as Shar-Pei ears are small and foster growth of bacteria which can lead to ear infection.
5. Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls and water dishes- no plastics as they may leech chemicals into food and water and some can even discolor muzzles.
HEALTH
Please check out Dr. Jeff Vidt's site at http://www.drjwv.com/ to learn about potential Shar-Pei health issues (in particular Amyloidosis, Familial Shar-Pei fever (FSF), and Entropian) BEFORE deciding to add a Shar-Pei to your family. As with any pet, a Shar-Pei is not for everyone, and serious consideration should be made before making a commitment.
**Please note that I am available for questions and support to all families that have purchased babies from us. However, if you did not purchase your puppy from us, I cannot answer health questions due to liability issues and the fact that I do not know the health issues in your breeder's lines. If you need help, please seek qualified veterinary assistance. A list of Shar-Pei friendly vets is available at www.sharpeiforums.com/resources/shar-pei-vets.asp .
