Each breed of dog was originally bred for a specific purpose - to protect something, transportation, hunting and so on. For example, sharpei is one of the oldest breeds of guard dogs. The roots of this breed goes to China. During excavations on the territory of the imperial palaces of ancient Chinese dynasties, figures of dogs were found that have many external resemblances to sharpei.
Researchers suggest that this breed of dog was used as security guards and hunting assistants. However, later this breed of dogs became regular participants in dog fights. The folds inherent in this dog protected it from serious injuries. In the 70s of the twentieth century, sharpei were officially recognized by the American Association of Dog Breeders. Interestingly, back in the late 1970s, this dog breed was in the Guinness Book of Records as the rarest dog breed.
External signs
This breed of dog stands out for its unusual appearance, which will help to easily distinguish them from other dog breeds. Their bright and specific feature is 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 violet tongue, which can also be found in the Chow Chow breed.
In ancient China, it was believed that thanks to the unusual color of the tongue, these dogs guard their homes from evil spirits with their barking.
The following types of colors sharpei:
- the black - in its pure form it exists extremely rarely, most often the black color is represented by some kind of shade - dark brown, with a tint of brown color, as well as olive;
- golden or sand - It is considered the oldest 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 pale caramel;
- sable - the coat of such a dog has a light grayish spraying;
- 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 color shades - apricot, red deer, isabella, lilac and so on. Blue sharpei can have a unique shade of wool - from pale blue to almost asphalt. This breed belongs to medium sized dogs. Their average height is 42–52 cm and their weight is 16–38 kg, depending on the sex 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, a frown. The ears are small, dense, triangular in shape, set wide. The neck is short, quite powerful. The body is strong, taut, and puppies are characterized by a large number of folds that stretch with age, remaining visible only on the face and neck. The coat of the blue sharpei is short and thick, rather hard to the touch.
Character traits
By their nature, blue sharpei are calm and measured, although quite active and energetic. The model of behavior is completely dependent 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 representatives of this breed are distinguished by good intellectual abilities, while being very proud and wayward. But they get along well with children, they have good endurance and patience.
Only a maliciously tuned other dog can provoke sharpei to aggressive actions. In case of danger, this dog can not only stand up for itself, but also stand up for its owner. In everyday life, such a dog is very flexible and peaceful.
Care
Those who decide to have a blue sharpei puppy need to familiarize themselves with the basic rules for caring for this breed and the features of its feeding. Like any other dog, sharpei must be periodically brushed with a stiff bristle to comb out the hair.
When bathing, it is important to ensure that water does not get into the dog’s ears, since even a small amount of water entering the ear canals can cause the development of various kinds of diseases. When bathing, it is necessary to rinse all the folds well, while 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, or rather a hairdryer, carefully dry the area between the folds.
Blue sharpei need daily physical activity, long walks in the fresh air and communication with the owner. A dog who actively spent time on the street will behave calmly and quietly at home.
Sharpei are quite sensitive to the sun, therefore it is better to walk them in the morning and in the evening.
Food must combine meat, various cereals and vegetables.
It is important to know that Pork is prohibited, and chicken can cause severe allergies. When feeding dry feeds, hypoallergenic premium and holistic foods should be preferred. It is better to feed the dog, combining dry mixes and canned food. Sharpei nutrition plays a key role in the normal functioning of the dog.
All about sharpei dogs, see the next video.
