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Chinese Shar-pei |
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Description... |
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The Shar-pei is an alert, medium-sized dog. Its
short, harsh coat, the loose skin covering the head and body, and
the high set tail impart to the Shar-Pei a unique look peculiar to
him alone. The loose skin and wrinkles covering the head, neck and
body are superabundant in puppies but these features may be
limited to the head, neck and withers in the adult.
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History...
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 The
Shar-pei originated in the southern part of China, where it helped
peasant masters herd cattle, guard the home and family and hunt
wild pigs. The Shar-pei may have shared a common origin with the
smooth Chow Chow, the Great Pyrenees and the Tibetan Mastiff. The
rough, loose, prickly coat allowed the Shar-pei to wriggle out of
the grasp of opponents in dog-fighting pits.
The dog population was virtually wiped out following the
establishment of the People's Republic of China. A small number of
Shar-peis were brought to the US in the 1960's from the Down-Homes Kennel
in Hong Kong. Matgo Law appealed to Americans to save the Shar-pei, and
was greeted by an enthusiastic response.
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Traits...
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Daily walks, not runs, make for a great exercise
for you and your Shar-pei.
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Good aspects...
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The Shar-pei breed is devoted to their families,
and often becomes especially attached to just one person. They
require minimal grooming, a weekly brushing and biweekly bath. In
addition, this breed makes an excellent watch dog.
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Health...
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 Your
Shar-pei could suffer from a number of series health problems.
Common eye, ear, palate and skin defects can give your puppy
recurring problems that can last into adulthood. Some common adult
dog health problems include entropion, hypothyroidism, Familial
Shar-pei Fever-Swollen Hock Syndrome, demodectic mange, Seborrhea
Oleosa, Malocclusion, Tight Lip Syndrome, and patellar luxation.
In addition, watch out for hip dysplasia, cutaneous mucinosis,
bloat, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, and cancer.
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Be aware...
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The Shar-pei tends to have a stubborn nature, often
requiring lots of attention. They can not see very well, and this
causes them to be startled if approached to quickly. In addition,
there are numerous potential health problems. Most veterinarians
will be familiar with Shar-pei and their special health needs.
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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Further resources... |
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