The SharPei has been in existence for hundreds of years. Originally from China, and even today is often called the Chinese SharPei.

The SharPei was the 134th dog recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club), and even though the dog was a relatively late arrival into the AKC, it has climbed up to 64th out of 200 dog breeds the AKC has now registered.

SharPei At A Glance

Personality:
Affectionate, wary, reserved, loving, independent, devoted, strongwilled, and loyal.

Life Expectancy:
8 to 12 years.

Size & Weight:
Weight:
Males, 50 to 60 pounds.
Females, 45 to 55 pounds.

Height:
Males, 18 to 20 inches.
Females, 17 to 19 inches.

Coat:
Straight with a rough texture.

Coat Colors:
All solid colors and sable.

Coat Shedding:
Above average.

Exercise:
Moderate.

Energy:
Low.

SharPei Breed

SharPei are incredibly loving and loyal dogs to their family; however, they are stubborn and strongwilled; they aren't a dog for firsttime owners or if you're a bit timid. Because of their stubbornness, they can develop a dominant nature, especially if they believe they are in charge of the house.

This dog is very distinctive with the loose skin that forms wrinkles over the head, neck, and shoulders. SharPei also possess an unusual head shape because the muzzle is exceptionally broad, and plopped on top of the head are pretty small triangular ears.

SharPei jowls hang down below the muzzle, and the dog has thick lips; another unusual feature of the SharPei is their blueblack tongue.

SharPei puppies always look as though they have far too much skin, but as the dogs mature, they grow into their skin. The dog is robust without looking thickset, with a long, curving tail.

The SharPei coat has two lengths, which are acceptable to the AKC, a very short ‘horse coat’ and an inch longer ‘brush coat.’

Because of the heavy jowls and thick lips, they tend to be pretty messy when they eat and drink; owners need to be on standby with a cloth; they also slobber.

SharPei Temperament

The SharPei is a pretty calm dog and is exceptionally clean and one of the easiest and quickest dogs to toilet train.

Undoubtedly they are impressivelooking dogs, and as an owner, you're probably getting used to all the stares and comments by now. But training is fraught with difficulty because this is one independent and strongwilled dog.

Novice, timid or firsttime owners will probably find the Sharpei too much of a hand full to manage.

SharPei only need a moderate amount of exercise each day; just a few good walks will suffice. If you allow them out into your backyard unsupervised, then ensure the area is secure because they have a high prey drive and will likely attack smaller animals in the vicinity.

Years ago, the Chinese bred the dog for guarding and hunting, and their territorial instincts are still powerful. This makes them very wary of strangers, and owners should socialize the SharPei from a very young age to curb these instincts.

Typically SharPei are not too bothered if they bump into other dogs on their walks; however, some can be aggressive towards other dogs with other SharPei who dislike cats. To help prevent these tendencies is another reason to socialize from a young age.

SharPei Health

SharPei have some health conditions. The skin folds and creases are of concern because they trap moisture and can create bacterial infections in no time if owners do not wipe them dry and care for them constantly. SharPei also suffer from several eye disorders and a severe kidney disease.

SharPei Sounds

If strange dog noises put you off, you will probably be better off choosing another breed because Sharpei are known to snore loudly, grunt and snort. Many owners find these sounds endearing, and they love to hear them.

SharPei Legal Problems

Before you bring home a SharPei, if this is your intention, you need to check with your State authorities to ensure what your liabilities are owning a SharPei. In addition, check with your home insurance policy because some insurers will refuse you cover when owning a SharPei.

Conclusion

The Chinese SharPei is not an easy dog to own and bring up; they can be independent and assertive dogs. Inexperienced dog owners may find them too much to handle. In addition, families with very young children might be better looking for an easier dog to bring home because of the dog's nature.

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