Chinese Shar Pei

The Chinese Shar Pei is a strong and muscular dog, famous for his exceptional drive, strong will and superb guarding qualities. These dogs originated in the south of China many centuries ago, and their violet tongues make some breeders think of them as an offspring of the Chow Chow. In a way, these dogs are similar to Mastiffs, and some breeders also relate them to European Mastiff-type dogs. The exact origin of the Chinese Shar Pei is uncertain.

Chinese Shar Pei dogs are naturally protective and bossy. Hey have a characteristic scowling countenance, and they are not good for everyone. Chinese Shar Peis are very assertive and self-assured, and they are infinitely brave. Their strong protective instincts must be controlled through early socialization, so that a grown-up dog does not get too wary toward strangers or other animals. Unfortunately, improper breeding has resulted in production of many poor quality dogs, which often have serious behavioral problems, and this has contributed to the dog’s reputation as a vicious fighter dog, which should be regarded with extreme caution. Indeed, a well trained and socialized Chinese Shar Pei will never undertake an attack without provocation. His is a very intelligent dog, capable of assessing situations and differentiating between good and bad people.

The Chinese Shar Pei is a strongly built dog. He has muscular limbs, deep chest, broad and blunt head and thick and wrinkled skin. Chinese Shar Peis are capable of withstanding physical rigors, and they were once used as fighter dogs. The wrinkles on the forehead, chest and shoulders provide for sufficient shock absorption, making him almost impervious to serious physical impact. Today, the Chinese Shar Pei is a home companion, and is not intended for any sport.

These dogs come in three types of coat: horse coat – harsh and short; brush coat – a little longer than horse coat; and bear coat, which is long, soft and sometimes wavy. The American Kennel Club does not recognize dogs with bear coats or coats exceeding 1 inch in length. Chinese Shar Pei dogs should come in solid colors: fawn, red, beige, brown, black, apricot, etc. Pet quality dogs may have various color combinations. The Chinese Shar Pei dog is a healthy and hardy dog. He rarely comes down with genetic diseases. In general, these dogs show proneness to skin problems and kidney failure, which arise from hereditary factors. Chinese Shar Pei dogs are sensitive to heat, so they are best suited for cooler climates.