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Facts about Shar Pei Puppies
Are you unsure how to care for Shar Pei puppies or just want to learn more about the breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a dog and want to know if this is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
Also known as Chinese Shar Pei, the breed probably originated in the Chinese Guangdong Province around 200 B.C.
This is an intelligent dog. It also possesses great strength and for many years was used for hunting, protecting farm animals and guarding homes.
Like many ancient breeds, Shar Pei came close to extinction but recovered and is now a relatively common companion dog.
By the way, the name "Shar Pei" translates to "sand skin"!
Physical Characteristics of Shar Pei Puppies
The Shar Pei is a medium sized dog with very compact and square body. It has an oval muzzle, small forward-falling ears and a high-set, curly tail. But its most distinctive feature is its wrinkled skin that covers the whole body (puppies have more wrinkles than adult dogs).
The coat is straight and comes in two types - a short and longer coat.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 18 to 20 inches | 45 to 60 pounds | |
| Female | 18 to 20 inches | 45 to 60 pounds |
Temperament
Shar Pei is an intelligent and alert dog. It's affectionate with its family but wary with strangers. If you introduce a young puppy to children and pets, he will not have any problems with them when he grows up.
Because Shar Pei can be stubborn, I recommend general obedience and puppy socialization training.
Indoors, it's moderately active and will do well in an apartment setting.
A Shar-Pei can be best described with the following terms: intelligent, brave, dominant and playful.
Best Owner
Shar Pei puppies need an experienced and confident dog owner willing to take charge. Unless you establishes an "alpha" status, your dog will!
Some Shar Pei breeders may interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
To keep Shar Pei puppies and adult dogs in top shape, provide them with moderate but regular exercise.
Grooming
Shar Pei puppies don't require a lot of grooming.
Since the breed does not shed a lot, brushing once a week will be sufficient. Of course, if you have time, daily brushing can't hurt!
Shar Pei ears tend to collect a lot of dirt and wax. It's a good idea to check them on a regular basis and clean when necessary.
Weekly bathing will make the skin dry and coat dull. Bathe your Shar Pei puppy only when necessary (you'll smell it!).
Almost forgot... Shar Pei nails grow fast, so check regularly and clip them when necessary.
Health Concerns
Like many other breeds, Shar Pei is prone to health issues.
Some, like a painful eye condition called "entropion", are caused by irresponsible breeding. Dogs suffering from this condition have eyelashes curl inward, irritating the eye. This condition can be fixed by surgery.
Shar Pei fever, characterized by a fever lasting up to 24 hours, is another serious problem for this breed.
Amyloidosis is caused by unprocessed amyloid proteins depositing in kidneys or liver, leading to renal failure.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable Shar Pei breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy for Shar Pei puppies is around 10 years.
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