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 get to know more closely these funny and charming pets.

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

A large number of different breeds of dogs come from China, and sharpei are no exception. Even in their external characteristics, these pets are somewhat reminiscent of a well-educated, intelligent and restrained in emotions of a Chinese.

There is an opinion that sharpei come from the 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 existed for more than 3 thousand years.

The history of sharpei, which was saved 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 sharpei that were recognized as the most popular and in demand among the Chinese peoples. This is confirmed by the numerous clay figurines that were discovered during excavations of ancient Chinese tombs.In the latter, one could find images of slightly frowned dogs that have folds on the skin characteristic of sharpei.

For several centuries, this breed has remained very popular. Moreover, sharpei 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, sharpei were at the peak of their popularity. At that time, 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, 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 sharpei population even harder. There is evidence that in the very beginning of the 50s in China there were very few pets of this breed. Only in 1971, the first sharpei was transferred to Novaya Zemlya. There, a dog of Chinese origin was so fond of his breeder and all his friends that his photo was printed in a popular magazine. Under the photo was the caption: "The last remaining shar pei in the world." Activists and breeders have decided to put all their strength into the restoration of this amazing breed.

Despite the fact that the process of the revival of the breed was able to start, the existence of sharpei was still a big question. As a result, it was decided to interbreed these individuals with all breeds that had at least some similar features with them. It took several decades to get a little fit into the general gene pool of sharpei.

The standards of 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 very popular in Europe and America.

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

Sharpei are very cute and cute creatures who are able to fall in love with themselves at first sight. They are not very large and unusual features with characteristic folds. However, this information is too little to decide on the purchase of 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 sharpei's head should be slightly wider than the body. The skull is quite wide and has a characteristic flat structure.
• The nose of the sharpei is quite wide. It is large, tapering to the tip should not.
• The folds that distinguish sharpei from most other breeds should not only be on the head of the animal. They are also present on the sharpei's face, namely on the nose and cheeks.
• The nose has a characteristic pigment - it can be either black, or be in tone with the main color of the body. The nostrils are wide.
• Sharpei's lips are naturally fleshy. 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 culling of the breed.
• Sharpei eyes should be almond-shaped. They are planted deep and have a characteristic rude 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 pressed against the skull as tightly as possible. If the ears are erect, then this will be considered a serious flaw and non-compliance with the standard.
• The jaw is well developed and powerful. The bite has a scissor structure.
• The limbs are smooth and wide, spaced parallel to each other. No creases should be observed. All movements of a thoroughbred animal should be light, without undue 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 tail is set high enough. It is either bent or thrown to one side or back.
• The coat is very short. The hair length should not exceed 2.5 cm. A distinctive feature - the undercoat is missing. The skin of the dog is collected in many folds. This is another distinguishing characteristic of purebred sharpei. There are no serious requirements for their color - it can be almost anything.
• The body of sharpei should be muscular, harmoniously developed. There should not be sharp transitions. The body itself has a compact constitution. The chest is deep and wide. The length of the neck is medium. This part of the animal’s body is quite powerful. The back is short and the lower back 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 considered not the easiest. For this reason, sharpei is not recommended to start people who do not have the commanding qualities and enough free time.

If in relation to sharpei to show excess softness and loyalty, 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 willfully, subjugating household members to itself. In no case should such consequences be allowed. Moreover, all family members should be equally strict with such a dog. It is impossible for one person to punish and teach a pet, and the other constantly sniffed at him and forgave everything.

Despite the displeased expression of the muzzle, sharpei is an animal friendly and affectionate (of course, with proper education). These pets love to be in large companies. And it can be not only adults, but also children. Correctly brought up and socialized four-legged people will treat the household very kindly, but this does not mean that the dog will unconditionally fulfill all your whims and requirements at the first call. From the first days of life, these pets tend to be independent. Throughout all his years, sharpei will be guided only by his thoughts and goals.

It should be borne in mind that Shar Pei is very wary of any attention paid to his person, especially if the initiative comes from an outsider. Sharpei often do not allow strangers to come close to them, much less allow themselves to stroke or cuddle. This is another reason why it is necessary to socialize such a dog. Raising a puppy is required literally from the first days of his appearance in the house.Interfere with the process of adapting sharpei can his desire to be in an absolutely calm and peaceful atmosphere.

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

In relation to other representatives of their species, sharpei often behave quite aggressively. TOIn addition, it must be borne in mind that these pets can behave shyly. Especially frightening sharpei is not worth it even during games. For him, this will be unnecessary 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 sharpei are impenetrable in nature and always act as they see fit.

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

• hors - these pets have rather coarse hair, the length of which does not exceed a mark of 1 cm;
• brush - such long-haired dogs have soft hair 10 cm long along the entire body, and in the neck and tail the hair can even reach 25 cm;
• “Bear hair” - this category includes dogs whose woolen coat is soft, wavy, and 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 wool has the following colors:

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

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

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

Dogs with non-standard colors are also distinguished. For example, these types include:

• albinos whose wool is white;
• spotted sharpei;
• black-headed individuals.

Separately, it is worth highlighting the American sharpei. It has some differences from purebred Chinese individuals. American dogs are very small pets. They are smaller than the Chinese. 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 descended from their Chinese counterparts. Otherwise, such animals are called minipey.

Dwarf shar pei is practically no different from relatives of standard sizes. Adult dogs of this species in height can reach 42-44 cm at the withers. There are times when dwarf individuals by 7 months make a sharp jump in growth and grow to their standard counterparts. This begs the reasonable question: why should 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 make such a charming friend and take into account the features of his “iron” character, then you should choose the puppy of this breed correctly. To begin with, you will need to find a really reliable and trusted breeder who can provide you with all the necessary certificates and documents together with the baby.

As soon as you see charming plush puppies, you will need to focus on their specific parameters in order to make the right choice.

• It is advisable to buy puppies whose age is from 1.5 to 2 months.
• If you buy a standard sharpei, 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, black dots and other similar things. The presence of such secretions may indicate that the puppy is not completely healthy.
• The hair of a small pet should be perfectly clean and well-groomed.
• Pay attention to the physique of the puppy. He must be well-fed. There should be no protruding ribs.
• A healthy sharpei puppy will behave quite actively and playfully. Too sluggish and painful-looking individuals can indeed be carriers of certain diseases.
• Appetite in babies should be good.
• In no case should puppies 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 head 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 the puppies.

Choose only conscientious breeders, contact exclusively trusted nurseries with a good reputation. Ask for all the documentation that should go with the puppy. Choosing a favorite thoroughbred baby, it is advisable to talk with the breeder on the topic of nutrition and care for a little sharpei. Ask all the questions you are interested in if you have not dealt with this breed before, so that at first you won’t make any mistakes.

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

We must take into account the fact that the sharpei ears need special attention. Be careful when bathing your wrinkled, four-legged friend. It is advisable not to wash the sharpei's head, otherwise water can 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 may occur after such omissions do not affect other breeds of dogs.

It is necessary to bathe sharpei monthly. During bathing procedures, it is advisable to use a special rubber brush. This way you take care of the faster wool change process. The skin of wrinkled dogs is very sensitive, so you need to use only specialized detergent compositions. Gently rinse all the folds on the dog’s body, and then dry them thoroughly with a hairdryer (air temperature should not be too high).

We must not forget about cutting the claws of sharpei. It is necessary to resort to such hygienic procedures as needed. In most cases, claws have to be cut no more often than a couple of times a month. To do this, use a special clipper. Such accessories are sold at most pet stores.

Treat your sharpei eyes with a damp cloth every day. Be sure to remove accumulated mucus from the corners of the eyes. If these actions are neglected, serious eye inflammation can develop. Similar problems will have to be addressed 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 on treating advanced inflammatory processes.

Sharpei need physical activity. 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 on his return.

Please note - sharpei are very sensitive to the effects of ultraviolet rays. In the heat, their head can simply overheat. That is why it is recommended that dogs of this breed be taken outside only in the mornings and evenings, when solar activity is very small.

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 necessary.

• It does not matter where the sharpei lives - in the house or on the street. And in that, and in another case, the requirements for the arrangement of his personal space will remain the same. Make sure that from a dog lounger or a booth a good and fairly wide view of the terrain opens (this can be either a yard or a room in an apartment). Very good guards are made of sharpei. The territory that the owner has entrusted to the dog should be easily viewed by him. If you neglect this rule, then sharpei simply will not spend enough time in the corner that you allocated for him.
• Make sure that sharpei is not exposed to drafts. If you keep your pet outdoors in the winter, be sure to ensure that its enclosure is properly insulated. If to consider as a whole, sharpei usually does not care where to live. Its wool provides easy coolness in the summer and can warm in a cold cold. However, you cannot keep a sharpei on the street unless you have prepared a warmed aviary or house for him.

Proper nutrition of sharpei is the key to his health. These pets can be fed with already prepared feeds that are sold in the store, as well as natural products prepared in advance by the owner.

If you decide to raise a puppy on a feed store, then you should immediately understand that excessive savings will be inappropriate here. In no case do not buy economy-class products for sharpei. Such feeds will definitely not benefit the animal’s body, but they can do very seriously harm. Usually these options look bright and are sold in any stores. Budget products contain many chemicals, flavor enhancers, and preservatives, the origin of which is not indicated at all.

The most suitable for sharpei are premium and super-premium elite feed. Of course, they are more expensive than budget ones, but they contain all the vitamin complexes necessary for animals, minerals and trace elements. Usually there are not a lot of 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 with ready-made, but with natural products, then you should know that of all types of meat, sharpei should preferably be given chicken. But be extremely careful: dogs of this breed are allowed to give only chicken neck, head, back or offal. Do not feed sharpei with sirloin, hips and drumsticks - these products are prohibited.

In addition, sharpei, like most dogs of other breeds, in no case should be given river fish, sweets in any form, muffins, 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 first visit a veterinarian with him. Consult a specialist what feed is best for your baby. Let the veterinarian make the right diet for your dog.Thus, you will avoid the frequent mistakes that the owners make when creating a menu for their thoroughbred four-legged companions.

Like any other dog, sharpei 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.

Fortunately, sharpei are animals with a well-developed intelligence. They can be quickly taught to new teams. The dog will learn the basic options in a short time, but only if he himself wants it. If the owner does not show the dog in time that he dominates, then the pet will quickly take this place in their relationship. It is extremely important to consider that when raising sharpei, strictness and discipline must take place. True, you should not go too far. Do not yell at your pet at the top of your neck; you should not resort to physical punishment either.

It is necessary to socialize and educate a sharpei puppy from the first days of his appearance in a new house. If you take time or completely neglect such actions, then an adult animal will behave aggressively and naughty. Usually re-educating such pets is not possible.

I must say that Sharpei immunity is quite strong, especially compared to dogs of other popular breeds. However, there are some diseases from which sharpei suffer most often. Check out their list.

• Allergic reactions. Most often, this problem occurs if the animal was in contact with the allergen, fed on the wrong food, or the food chosen by the owner did not suit him. The dog may begin to vomit, the temperature rises, the hair falls out, and swelling occurs.
• Eye diseases. Usually they occur if you do not clean the dog’s eyes, which ultimately leads to the development of inflammatory processes and even their injury. Because of this, there is swelling of the eyelids, visual impairment.
• Ear infections. Such problems occur if the owners do not monitor the cleanliness of their pet’s auricles, and do not remove the resulting contaminants. Because of this, discharge will accumulate in the ears of sharpei, scabies will begin, and hearing may deteriorate. If you notice that the dog began to brush his ears too often, then this should serve as a signal for you to act.
• Entropy (the so-called inversion of the eyelids). This disease is due to a genetic predisposition. It often leads to rubbing of the cornea, over which skin folds hang.

If only you noticed that your pet was ill with something, then you should immediately go for a consultation with a veterinarian. It is not recommended to arbitrage and conduct experiments on the health of sharpei. Yes, they have good immunity, but this does not mean that you will not do more harm to these dogs by choosing the wrong treatment. Yes, and you will hardly be able to make a correct diagnosis.

Sharpeys fit a variety of nicknames. Let's consider some interesting options for a thoroughbred girl:

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

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

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

Sharpei have 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.

About sharpei 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;
• a calm character is another reason for the joy of breeders;
• according to the owners of the sharpei, they are very affectionate and loyal to their owners;
• many factories noted that their pet easily succumbed to training and education;
• the sharpei intelligence level is noticed by most of their owners;
• these dogs can be kept in a simple city apartment;
• good disposition, lack of unnecessary aggression.

Many owners say that sharpei have no drawbacks at all - some solid pluses. However, there are those who noticed a lot of negative qualities in this breed.

• The maintenance of sharpei takes a lot of money. Food for them is expensive.
• Most owners are unhappy with the overwhelming stubbornness of sharpei. If such a dog does not want to do something, it will be impossible to force it.
• At times, sharpei are very harmful.
• These dogs snore.
• Although sharpei have good immunity, many of their owners are faced with the fact that the pets were sick from their typical diseases - dysplasia, allergies and inversion of the eyelids.
• Cowardly behavior is another quality that does not suit the owners of sharpei.
• Some people argue that you can’t leave a pet alone with children, because the animal does not behave so that it can be trusted.

Yes, there are plenty of shortcomings in this breed. Most of the negative reviews people leave about the complex nature of these pets. It can be incredibly difficult for many breeders (especially beginners) to cope with the excessive waywardness and stubbornness of wrinkled tetrapods.

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

Before cutting the claws of sharpei, they must first be carefully examined. So you can notice the vein inside. When cutting, it is very important not to hurt her.

Accustom such a dog to hygiene procedures from an early age. Otherwise, it will be very difficult to care for an adult pet, because it will fiercely resist.

Walk such a dog in the muzzle and keep on a leash. Sharpei often behave extremely aggressive towards other animals. If you keep the situation under control, then during a walk there will be no serious problems.

Please note - sharpei does not really like to stay at home alone for a long time. If the dog nevertheless 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.

The next video is all about the sharpei dog breed.