All about sharpei

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

Before proceeding to a direct acquaintance with handsome Sharpei, it is worthwhile to understand in detail the history of their origin.

A large number of different dog breeds come 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 in emotions.

It is believed that Shar Pei descend from the ancient mastiffs and smooth-haired Chow Chows. However, this is evidenced exclusively by the features of the anatomy and certain similarities in the character of these pets.There is only one exact statement, which was obtained by studying the DNA of Shar-Pei - they have existed for more than 3 thousand years.

The history of Shar-Peis, which we managed to preserve on paper, is quite interesting and entertaining. For many centuries, these dogs were distributed only on the coast of the South China Sea and in the provinces of southern China. In the III-II century BC, it was the Shar Pei who were recognized as the most popular and demanded among the Chinese peoples. This is confirmed by 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 on the skin characteristic of a Shar Pei.

This breed has remained very popular for several centuries. 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. During that period, a funny animal with funny folds could be seen in almost every family. The situation has undergone major changes after 10 years. At that time, the Communist Party came to power in China. Politicians have come to the conclusion that having pets is a real luxury. As a result, Mao Zedong ordered the mass extermination of cats and dogs, which were not needed by the proletariat.

The breed was on the brink of extinction when World War II broke out. Cold and hunger hit the Shar Pei population even harder. There is information that at the very beginning of the 50s in China there were very few pets of this breed. Only in 1971 was the first Shar Pei transported to Novaya Zemlya. There, the dog of Chinese origin was so fond of his breeder and all his acquaintances that his photograph was published in a popular magazine. Under the photo was the caption: "The last remaining Shar Pei in the world." Activists and breeders have decided to devote all their efforts to the restoration of this amazing breed.

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

The standards for this breed were adopted only in 1976. At the same time, her first purebred pedigree was bred. At the moment, dogs of this unusual breed are insanely popular in Europe and America.

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

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

• The growth of purebred "Chinese" can be from 44 to 51 cm, and weight - from 18 to 35 kg.The average life expectancy of these pets is not the longest - only 10 years.
• The head of the sharpei should be slightly wider than the torso. The skull is wide enough and has a characteristic flat structure.
• Sharpei's nose is quite wide. It is large and should not taper towards the tip.
• The folds that distinguish Shar Pei from most other breeds should be located not only on the head of the animal. They are also present on the Shar Pei's face, namely on the nose and cheeks.
• The nose has a characteristic pigment - it can be either black, or be in tune with the main color of the body. The nostrils are wide.
• Sharpei lips are naturally fleshy. The tongue and gums have an unusual blue color. Pink-spotted pigmentation is also allowed. If there is a tongue with a uniform pink color, then this will be considered a cull of the breed.
• Shar-Pei eyes should be almond-shaped. They are set deep and have a characteristic rough 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 wide and fleshy. It is pressed as tightly as possible to the skull. If the ears are erect, then this will be considered a serious defect and non-compliance with the standard.
• The jaw is well developed and powerful. The bite has a scissor bite.
• The limbs are straight and wide, parallel to each other. There should be no wrinkles. All movements of a thoroughbred animal should be light, without unnecessary severity.
• The tail of purebred representatives of the breed is narrow to the tip. It should be round and dense, but in moderation. The sharpei's tail is 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. Distinctive feature - no undercoat. The dog's skin gathers 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 Shar-Pei should be muscular, harmoniously developed. There should be no abrupt transitions. The torso itself has a compact constitution. The ribcage is deep and wide. The length of the neck is medium. 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 character of these pets is considered not the easiest. For this reason, it is not recommended to start sharpeis for people who do not have commanding qualities and a sufficient amount of free time.

If you show extra softness and loyalty in relation to the Shar-Pei, then in the end the dog will feel like a leader. Of course, nothing good will come of this - the pet will behave too arrogantly and capriciously, subjugating the household. In no case should such consequences be allowed. Moreover, all family members should be equally strict about such a dog. It is impossible for one person to punish and teach a pet, while another constantly lisp at him and forgave everything.

Despite the displeased expression on the muzzle, the Shar Pei is a friendly and affectionate animal (of course, with the right upbringing). These pets love to be in large companies. Moreover, it can be not only adults, but also children. A properly educated and socialized four-legged family will be very friendly, but this does not mean that the dog will unquestioningly fulfill all your whims and requirements at the first call. From the first days of life, these pets strive to be independent.Throughout all his years, Shar Pei will be guided only by their own considerations and goals.

It should be borne in mind that the Shar Pei is very wary of any attention to his person, especially if the initiative comes from an outsider. Shar Pei often do not allow strangers to come close to themselves, and even more so they do not allow themselves to be stroked or cuddled. This is another reason why it is necessary to socialize such a dog. Raising a puppy is required literally from the first days of its appearance in the house. The Shar Pei's desire to be in an absolutely calm and peaceful environment can interfere with the adaptation process.

Like other Asian breeds, Shar Pei have an unrivaled intuition. Some breeders claim that these pets are real four-legged psychologists. They can easily capture the mood of the owner and his family members. At first glance, the Shar Pei recognizes a threat posed by another person or animal.

Shar Pei often behave quite aggressively towards other members of their species. TOIn addition, it should be borne in mind that these pets can behave fearfully. You shouldn't scare a Shar Pei on purpose, even during games. It will be unnecessary stress for him.

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

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

• Horses - these pets have rather coarse hair, the length of which does not exceed 1 cm;
• brush - such long-haired dogs have soft hair 10 cm long throughout the body, and in the neck and tail the fur can even reach 25 cm;
• "Bear hair" - this category includes dogs whose coat is soft, wavy, and the length of their hair does not exceed 2.5 cm (this variety is non-standard).

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

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

There is another group of pets, the color of which is called dilute. The fur of these four-legged comrades has the following delute colors:

• cream;
• apricot;
• Red;
• lilac;
• chocolate;
• isabella.

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

• albinos with white hair;
• spotted sharpei;
• black-backed individuals.

The American Shar Pei is worth a separate mention. It has some differences from purebred Chinese individuals. American dogs are very small pets. They are smaller in size than the Chinese. And they are lower in height.

There are no less charming mini Shar Pei. These are interesting dwarf dogs with no history of their own. They descended from their Chinese counterparts. Otherwise, such animals are called minipei.

The dwarf Shar Pei is practically no different from its relatives of standard sizes. Adult dogs of this variety in height can reach 42-44 cm at the withers. There are times when dwarf individuals make a sharp jump in growth by 7 months and grow to their standard counterparts. This is where a reasonable question arises: why did this breed have to be divided into two separate species, if they have so many similarities? It should be borne in mind that these dogs are divided according to the regional principle.

If you have definitely decided that you want to acquire such a charming friend and have taken 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 really reliable and trusted breeder who, together with the baby, can provide you with all the necessary certificates and documents.

As soon as adorable plush puppies appear in front of you, you will need to focus on their specific parameters in order to make the right choice.

• It is advisable to buy puppies that are between 1.5 and 2 months old.
• If you are buying a standard Shar Pei, then you should pay attention to the size of the chosen puppy. A small wrinkled pet should not be too large or too small.
• The ears and eyes of the baby must be clean, without mucus, blackheads and other similar things. The presence of such discharge may indicate that the puppy is not completely healthy.
• The coat of a small pet should be perfectly clean and well-groomed.
• Pay attention to the puppy's physique. He must be well-fed. There should be no protruding ribs.
• A healthy Shar Pei puppy will be quite active and playful. Individuals that are too lethargic and sickly-looking can actually carry certain diseases.
• The appetite of babies should be good.
• Puppies should never 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 puppies should have a characteristic square head and a blue tongue.
• It would be nice to have a look at the parents of the puppies.

Choose only bona fide breeders, contact only trusted nurseries with a good reputation. Request all documentation that should come with your puppy. Having chosen the thoroughbred baby you like, it is advisable to talk to the breeder about the nutrition and care of the little Sharpei. Ask all the questions that interest you, if you have not dealt with this breed before, so that at first you do not make any mistakes.

Sharpies do not need too complicated and expensive care. It is enough to comb them out from time to time using a special brush (these are sold in many pet stores). This way you will be able to care for the dog's coat and skin, since dead cells will be removed during the combing process. Thus, the blood circulation of the skin will improve.

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

You need to bathe Shar-Peis monthly. During bath procedures, it is advisable to use a special rubber brush. This way you will take care of a quicker wool replacement process. The skin of wrinkled dogs is very sensitive, so you should use only specialized detergents. Gently rinse all wrinkles on the dog's body, and then dry them thoroughly with a hairdryer (the air temperature should not be too high).

We must not forget about the haircut of Sharpei claws. It is necessary to resort to such hygienic procedures as needed. In most cases, claws do not have to be cut more often than a couple of times a month. To do this, you need to use a special nail clipper. These are available at most pet stores.

Use a damp cloth to clean the Shar Pei eyes every day. Be sure to remove accumulated mucus from the corners of your eyes. If these actions are neglected, serious eye inflammation can develop. Such problems will have to be solved in a veterinary clinic. It is better to spend a couple of minutes treating your pet's eyes than to spend a lot more time and money treating advanced inflammatory processes.

Shar Pei need physical activity. It is necessary to take such a pet for long walks. The more the dog uses up energy outside the walls of the house, the calmer he will behave when he returns.

Please note - Shar Pei are very sensitive to ultraviolet rays. In the heat, their head can simply overheat. That is why dogs of this breed are recommended to be taken outside 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 in size. Regardless of the conditions in which the pet lives, he needs to prepare everything he needs.

• It doesn't matter where the Shar Pei lives - in the house or on the street. In either case, the requirements for arranging his personal space will remain the same. Make sure that a good and wide enough view of the area opens up from the dog bed or kennel (this can be a yard or a room in an apartment). Sharpeis make very good guards. The territory that the owner entrusted to the dog should be easily viewed by him. If you neglect this rule, then the Shar Pei simply will not spend enough time in the corner that you have allocated for him.
• Make sure the Shar Pei is not exposed to drafts. If you keep your pet outdoors in winter, be sure to make sure that its enclosure is properly insulated. If we look at it as a whole, the Shar-Pei usually does not care where to live. Its fur provides light coolness in summer and can keep you warm in cold chill. However, you cannot keep a Shar Pei on the street if you have not prepared an insulated aviary or house for it.

Proper nutrition of a Shar Pei is the key to its health. These pets can be fed both with ready-made food, which are sold in the store, or with natural products prepared in advance by the owner.

If you decide to raise a puppy on store food, then you should immediately understand that excessive savings will be inappropriate here. Under no circumstances should you buy economy-class products for your Shar Pei. Such feeds will definitely not benefit the animal's body, but they can do harm very seriously. Usually these options look bright and are sold in any store. The composition of budget products contains many chemicals, enhancers of tastes and aromas, preservatives, the origin of which is not indicated at all.

The most suitable for sharpei are premium and super-premium elite food. Of course, they are more expensive than budget ones, but they contain all the vitamin complexes, minerals and trace elements necessary for animals. Usually there are not many cheap substitutes for natural ingredients. Such feeds have an extremely positive effect on the condition of the pet.

If you plan to feed your pet not ready-made, but natural products, then you should know that of all types of meat, it is advisable to give sharpei chicken.But be extremely careful: it is permissible for dogs of this breed to only be given a chicken neck, head, back or offal. Do not feed the Shar Pei with sirloin slices, thighs and drumsticks - these foods are prohibited.

In addition, Sharpey, like most dogs of other breeds, in no case should be given river fish, sweets in any form, baked goods, salted, smoked, pickled and other dishes with the addition of various spices or flavoring enhancers.

As soon as you have such a wrinkled puppy, it is advisable to visit the veterinarian with him first. Consult a specialist which feed is best for your baby. Let your veterinarian put together the right diet for your dog. Thus, you will avoid common mistakes that the owners make when compiling a menu for their thoroughbred four-legged companions.

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

Fortunately, Shar Pei are highly intelligent animals. They can be quickly taught new commands. The dog will learn basic options in a short time, but only if he wants to. If the owner does not show the dog in time that he is dominant, then the pet will quickly take this place in their relationship. It is extremely important to take into account that strictness and discipline must take place in the upbringing of a Shar Pei. True, one should not go too far. Do not shout at your pet at the top of your lungs, and you should not resort to physical punishment either.

It is necessary to socialize and raise a Shar Pei puppy from the first days of his appearance in a new house. If you drag out for time or even neglect such actions, then an adult animal will behave aggressively and disobediently. Usually, it is not possible to re-educate such pets.

I must say that Shar-Pei have a fairly strong immunity, especially in comparison with dogs of other popular breeds. However, there are some diseases that Shar Pei suffer from most often. Let's get acquainted with their list.

• Allergic reactions. Most often, such a problem arises if the animal has been in contact with an allergen, ate the wrong food, or the food chosen by the owner did not suit him. The dog may start to vomit, the temperature will rise, the fur will fall out, and swelling will occur.
• Diseases of the eyes. They usually occur if the dog's eyes are not cleaned, 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 cleanliness of their pet's ears, do not remove the dirt that has appeared from there. Because of this, discharge will accumulate in the Shar Pei's ears, scabies will begin, and hearing may deteriorate. If you notice that the dog has begun to dust off its ears too often, then this should serve as a signal for you to act.
• Entropy (the so-called volvulus of the eyelids). This disease is due to a genetic predisposition. It often causes chafing of the cornea, over which folds of skin hang.

If only you notice that your pet is ill with something, then you should immediately go for a consultation with a veterinarian. It is not recommended to be unauthorized and to conduct experiments on the health of Sharpei. 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.And you will hardly be able to make a correct diagnosis.

Sharpei are suitable for a variety of nicknames. Consider several interesting options for a thoroughbred girl:

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

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

• Timosha;
• Pablo;
• Archie;
• Kiwi;
• Paco;
• Gin;
• Brooke;
• Tito;
• Volume;
• Nile;
• Tosha;
• Dani;
• Maurice;
• Bruce;
• Oscar;
• Bing;
• Nathan;
• Zeus;
• Leicester.

Sharpei have long ceased to be rare animals in the Red Data Book. Today these pets can be found in many families. Usually these dogs conquer people with their unusual, but very cute appearance.

Breeders leave a variety of reviews about Sharpei. Consider what good qualities in dogs of this breed are noticed by their owners:

• first of all, all the owners note the beautiful appearance of these animals;
• calm temperament is another reason for the joy of breeders;
• according to the owners of sharpei, they are very affectionate and loyal to their owners;
• many breeders noted that their pet was easy to train and educate;
• the level of intelligence of Sharpeis is noticed by most of their owners;
• these dogs can be kept in a simple city apartment;
• kind disposition, absence of unnecessary aggression.

Many owners argue that Shar-Pei have no downsides at all - only solid pluses. However, there are those who noticed a lot of negative qualities in this breed.

• A lot of money is spent on the maintenance of sharpeis. Food is expensive for them.
• Most of the owners are unhappy with the overwhelming stubbornness of the Sharpei. If such a dog does not want to do something, it will be impossible to force it.
• Shar Pei can be very harmful at times.
• These dogs snore.
• Although Shar Pei have good immunity, many of their owners are faced with the fact that pets were sick from their typical diseases - dysplasia, allergies and volvulus.
• Cowardly behavior is another quality that the owners of Shar-Pei do not like.
• Some people argue that leaving a pet alone with children should not be, because the animal does not behave in a way that can be trusted.

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

Of course, many problems with Shar Pei can be avoided if they are raised properly with a lot of patience, diligence and leadership. In addition, you need to monitor the health of the pet and take all the necessary actions in time so as not to start the situation.

Before you cut Shar Pei's claws, you first need to carefully examine them. That way you can see the vein inside. When cutting, it is very important not to hurt her.

Train such a dog to hygiene from an early age. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to care for an adult pet, because he will violently resist.

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

Please note - Shar Pei do not really like to stay at home alone for a long time. If the dog still finds himself in such circumstances, he will not be very naughty without you. However, you still need to try not to force the pet to miss and yearn for its owner.

In the next video, everything about the Shar Pei dog breed.