 Breeds
by Name |
 |
|
|
| Breeds
by Group |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Chinese Shar Pei name roughly translates to "draping sand paper like skin" in Chinese where they were once known as the "Chinese Fighting Dog". In 1978 the Guinness Book of Records listed them as the world's rarest dog. Today there is a renewed interest in the breed as a unique family pet. A one family dog, they are suited for both urban and city living, but they do not kennel well. The Shar Pei loose wrinkled skin gives them an appealing frowning, sad look, which is a false appearance. Chinese Shar Peis were once used for fighting but they are now a well-mannered, friendly dog with an easy going nature, but may show aggression towards other dogs.
Other Names: Chinese Fighting Dog
Height: 18 - 20 inches
Weight: 35 - 45 lbs.
Colors: Solid colors only, black, red, light fawn, dark fawn or cream.
Coat: Short, straight, bristly, no undercoat on loose skin.
Temperament: Chinese Shar-Peis are independent, aloof.
With Children: Most are good as they are family oriented.
With Pets: Early socialization minimizes natural dog and interspecies aggression.
Watch-dog: High, aloof and watchful, their sober expression tends to make strangers wary.
Guard-dog: High, has a guard-dog temperament, but will become friendly with regular visitors.
Care and Training: Attention must be paid to the skin of the Chinese Shar-Pei to ensure that no irritations exist within the folds. Regular massaging and brushing with a bristle brush will keep the coat in top condition. Teeth need regular cleaning and toenails need to be clipped every ten days. Regular exercise on a leash is necessary for Chinese Shar-Peis. Firm training and socialization are required at a young age to prevent aggression as an adult.
Learning Rate: High, they are clever and intuitive but may be manipulative. Training should be with a firm hand and determined handler.
Activity: Varies, some are athletes, some prefer to be sedentary.
Living Environment: Best as a member of the family, they do not kennel well.
Health Issues: High maintained dog. Chronic skin problems, in-turned eyelids (entropion) and allergies.
Life Span: 7 -12 years
Litter Size: 4 - 6
Country of Origin: China
History: The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient breed that has existed for centuries in the southern provinces of China, dating back to the Han Dynasty of 202 B.C - 220 B.C. They were originally recognized as a fighting breed but was also were used to hunt, herd and offer protection. Chinese Shar-Peis almost became an extinct breed but there was a renewed interest in the sixties. Recognized by the Hong Kong Kennel Club in 1968, the Shar-Pei is now a popular pet. The Shar-Pei has a blue black tongue a characteristics only found in the Chow Chow and the Thai Ridgeback which may suggest a common ancestry.
First Registered by the AKC: 1991
AKC Group: Non-Sporting
Class: Non-Sporting
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), KC (GB), UKC
|
|
|
|
