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Chinese Shar-pei Facts
- Group
- Non Sporting
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 18" - 20"
- Weight
- 45-60 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 12 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
Shar-pei, Chinese fighting dog
Origin
It is believed that the Chinese shar-pei originated in a small village called Tai Li in Guangdong Province or China.
Date Of Origin
The Chinese shar-pei originated in 200 B.C.
History
The Chinese shar-pei is believed to be an ancient breed that is thought to have originate in the region around the small village of Tai Li in China during the Han dynasty. Statues bearing a strong resemblance to the shar-pei have been dated to this period and a Chinese manuscript form the thirteenth century refers to a wrinkled dog with characteristics much like those of the shar-pei. The Chinese shar-pei is thought to have been developed as an all-purpose dog. The communist government of the Peoples Republic of China has on more than one occasion tried to eradicate dogs, and although these efforts have, at times, driven the breed close to extinction, breeders in Hing Kong and Taiwan kept the breed alive prior to its introduction to the western world.
Description
The Chinese shar-pei is a medium size, compact, and square dog. Its most distinct feature is the lose skin that covers its head and body, creating hundreds of wrinkles. It has an oval shaped muzzle, sometimes called a hippopotamus muzzle, small ears, and a high set tail. The tongue and lips are a bluish-black. It comes in two coat types: A short and a longer coat, which should not exceed an inch in length. The coat can be solid color or sable.
Temperament
The Chinese shar-pei is an alert, serious, and intelligent dog. It is affectionate and devoted to its family but wary with strangers. It prefers the company of humans to dogs and may be aloof.
Uses
In the past it was a ferocious combat dog. Dog fighting was very popular in China and for years the shar-pei was an applauded protagonist in these battles. Later, after careful and loving breeding, it was brought to the U.S. where it has become almost exclusively a companion dog.
Health Concerns
Amyloidosis, cancer, immune system problems, shar-pei fever
Additional Information
The wrinkles on this breed can cause issue if not properly cared for. They must be cleaned daily with a washcloth to keep bacteria from building up and infectious sores from forming.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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