Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-pei adults
Shenanigan's Bighorn Thunder
"Thunder" (left)
"Molly" (right)

Bred in the southern provinces of China, the Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient dog, tracing his ancestry back to the Han Dynasty (220 BC - 202 BC). Once considered the rarest breed in the world, the Shar-Pei was nearly extinct in the 1970s. Once a fighting dog, the Shar-Pei has also been used for hunting, protection, and herding.

In Chinese his name translates to "draping sandpaper like skin", a reference to his bristly skin folded into many wrinkles. Puppies tend to 'grow into' their wrinkles as they mature. Too much bathing and an improper diet may lead to skin problems. The Shar-Pei must receive regular grooming.

The Shar-Pei stands about 20 inches tall at the shoulder, and has a short, smooth coat that may be any solid colour. One unusual characteristic of this breed is his blue-black tongue. This feature is shared by only one other dog, the Chow Chow.

Although he was once known as the Chinese Fighting Dog, his temperament made him unsuited for fighting as he is generally good-natured and friendly. The Shar-Pei is intensely loyal to his family. His attitude with strangers is independent, aloof, and watchful. As such he makes a natural guard dog. As devoted as he is to his family, this is not the dog to be left in the kennel.

As with any breed, training should be started early to prevent bad habits from developing. The Shar-Pei is clever and intuitive, and learns quickly. He requires regular exercise.

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