How to Select a Chinese Shar-Pei

The Shar-pei, which means "sand skin," originated in China as early as 200 B.C. This breed, with its wrinkled face and short ears, was originally a farm dog and then a fighting dog. The Shar-pei is bright and willful at times, needing consistent training. Extremely loyal to its family, the dog can be rather aloof with strangers.

Things You'll Need

  • Electric Dog Clippers
  • Dog Beds
  • Dog Bones
  • Dog Bristle Brushes
  • Dog Collars
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Flea/tick Control Medication
  • Dog Leashes
  • Dog Shampoo
  • Dog Tags
  • High-quality Dog Food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a Chinese Shar-pei if you are looking for a watchdog that is protective and loyal. Because it is standoffish with strangers, the Chinese Shar-pei makes an excellent watchdog.

    • 2

      Consider a Chinese Shar-pei if you have children and cats in the house. If socialized at an early age, the Chinese Shar-pei does well with both. Be aware, though, that these dogs can be aggressive with other dogs.

    • 3

      Reconsider getting a Chinese Shar-pei if you are not willing to be firm and consistent in your training. This breed can be stubborn and independent at times and may not heed your words if you are soft-spoken.

    • 4

      Keep in mind that a Chinese Shar-pei does not do well in weather extremes, especially heat. But this breed is fine living in an apartment or a house.

    • 5

      Note the following features: The dog's head will be wrinkled, but its facial expression should be keen and sharp. Its body will be thick and compact. It will have one of three types of coats: the brush, which is long and smooth; the horse, which is short and rough; or the bear, which is similar to a chow coat. Coats may be solid colors or sable.

    • 6

      Realize that Chinese Shar-peis are prone to certain health conditions, such as entropion, familial Shar-pei fever, ear problems and allergies. Some dogs with familial Shar-pei fever may also suffer from swollen hock syndrome during fever episodes. Some will go on to develop kidney failure due to anyloidosis.

    • 7

      Ask the person who supplied your dog whether he or she did any screening for health problems specific to the Chinese Shar-pei.

    • 8

      Look at potential breeders very carefully, asking if they are members of breed clubs, specialty clubs or obedience clubs. You can check references through a club to make sure the breeder does not run a puppy mill and that it carefully screens for health problems before breeding.

    • 9

      Know that a Chinese Shar-pei will grow to be 18 to 20 inches tall and will weigh 40 to 55 lbs. at maturity. Expect the dog to live about 10 years.

    • 10

      Realize that you will probably pay between $300 and $500 for a pure-bred Chinese Shar-pei.