How to Be a Shar-Pei Breeder

Shar-Pei are as mysterious as they are alluring. They exhibit characteristics found in no other breed of dog. Such uniqueness has lured many to the breed. A fascination with all things Shar-Pei is, however, not enough to justify becoming a breeder. Reputable breeders take great pains to exhaustively educate themselves on Shar-Pei, and they're also likely to have owned several dogs before embarking on their first litter. Dedication to producing healthy and well-tempered Shar-Pei is important for any aspiring breeder.

Instructions

    • 1

      Own a Shar-Pei. Not everyone is fit to take care of this dog, let alone breed it. Their endearing wrinkles may lend them an avuncular cuddliness, but Shar-Pei were bred as guard dogs; they are territorial and can be prone to overt aggression. Other idiosyncrasies of the breed are an aversion to being petted on the head and a dislike of the rain. Potential Shar-Pei breeders should parent a representative of the breed to ensure that they not only know what they're entering, but also to foster a passion and admiration of this extremely unique dog.

    • 2

      Become a devotee of the Shar-Pei breed. Study the official Shar-Pei breed standard as provided by the American Kennel Club. Join the Shar-Pei Club of America. Attend conformation dog shows as both a spectator and a participant; experience showing a Shar-Pei in the ring. Breeders who exhibit gusto in immersing themselves with information and activities regarding the Shar-Pei can find that running a breeding program is not so laborious, as it is an extension of their love for the breed.

    • 3

      Purchase the highest quality Shar-Pei female you can find. Read the pedigrees of outstanding Shar-Pei, such as Bellicose Headcase, and look for these animals in your bitch's genetic history. Many outstanding breeders begin with a bitch that may not be aesthetically excellent, but whose heritage is extraordinary.

    • 4

      Search for a stud. Attend dog shows to notice the current top winning Shar-Pei who might make a suitable match for your female; the CSPCA National Specialty is an ideal event to experience when looking for a potential stud. Consult with other local, reputable breeders about stud options they may have. Invest copious time in studying and comparing the pedigrees of your stud and future dam before breeding.

    • 5

      Arm yourself for the breeding experience. Purchase, read and re-read literature that discusses not only whelping and litter care, but also information on genetics and the art of breeding. Screen your Shar-Pei for such problems as amyloidosis and elbow dysplasia, which can occur and be passed down in the breed. Inform other, more experienced breeders, of your naiveté in this process and ask for their help. Supplement your bitch's diet with extra nutrients if her current diet is not sufficient. Familiarize her with the whelping box and breeding area far in advance of her giving birth.