I’ve been breeding Shar-Pei dogs for about 10 years now and they have changed my life. I’d love for them to do the same for you.

So you’re thinking of adding a new pup to the family? Whether the dog is a rescue or a puppy from a breeder, you need to learn about Shar-Pei’s. Shar-Pei people are as loyal to the breed as the breed is to them. The Chinese Shar-Pei is one of the most lovable and loyal breed of dogs you will ever come across. They are generally an active and playful dog. Although they have a reputation of being aloof and standoffish, they can be a fantastic addition to the family. Shar-Pei can be a bit stubborn so it is important that they know you are in charge from the very beginning. They are fiercely protective of the ones they love. Shar-Pei are one of the few breeds that are not just a one person dog. Their loyalty includes everyone who has been accepted into the “pack”.

Shar-Pei are known for their short bristly coat and loose wrinkly skin. The word Shar-Pei actually means “sand skin”. Rubbing against it can bring about a little prickly rash on sensitive skin areas such as the inner forearm. Usually this rash is short lived. It will disappear fairly quickly after exposure and generally after you become accustomed to it, the reaction will cease to happen. Shar-Pei are born with many wrinkles and extra skin, but as they age they tend to grow in to their wrinkles. An adult Shar-Pei usually has wrinkles on their face and neck and some around their ankles, but the wrinkles on their torso usually stretch out and fill in as they grow.

There are three different possible coats on the Shar-Pei breed. The horse coat is very short and smooth with an athletic build and appearance. This coat is the prickliest of the three. The brush coat is the most common. It can be up to an inch long, stands up in areas and is less prickly than the horse coat. The bear coat is even longer and fluffy. The bear coat is the least common as it is the product of a recessive gene that both parent must possess. Although the bear coat is rare and so lovably cute, it is considered a flaw according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). The bear coat would not be a good choice for you if you intend to show your dog competitively. Each of the three look uniquely different from each other, and yet they are all genuine Chinese Shar-Pei. The brush and horse coats shed the least as there is no undercoat. None of the three coats require trimming.

Shar-Pei are a compact and powerful dog. A full size breed can weigh from 45–60 pounds and stand roughly 18–20 inches high at the shoulders. A miniature Shar-Pei can weigh from 25 to 40 pounds and stands roughly 14–17 inches at the shoulders. They have a larger square head but not disproportionate to their body. Their ears are small triangles that face front t=and flat on their head when they are alert. The ears are able to move independently and act as radar beacons to sense what is happening around them.

Make sure your Shar-Pei has regular and consistent commands so they completely understand what you want from them. They are highly intelligent and will learn many words as commands. Consistency of the selected words will ensure a better understanding and obedience. Practicing these commands every day with positive reinforcement will make both you and your dog happier. For their safety, one of the best commands to learn first is recall. If the skill of recall is practiced regularly you can expect that your dog will stop on a dime and return to you when you say the word. Shar-Pei could take advantage of an inexperienced dog owner. Its very important to be firm with them and yet not physical with punishment as they generally do not respond well to aggressive behavior in humans.

Most Shar-Pei are able to housebreak themselves, or they catch on with minimal encouragement. They are a clean dog who will understand quickly what is expected. Most often they will find their favorite places to relieve themselves and makes picking up in the yard a simple task. If you wish you may train them to show a sign that they wish to go outside, or if you pay attention to their patterns, it is easy to know when they need to go.

Crate training is highly recommended. It takes the burden off both you and your pet to behave appropriately when you are not home. It is a safe place for them to rest and not get into mischief. Many Shar-Peis have separation anxiety and could act out by scratching at doors to see where you have gone. Crating them in your absence will alleviate this problem.

The key to having a loving and loyal Shar-Pei is socialization from the day you bring them into your home. Bring them everywhere you go. Have them meet as many people and dogs as you can from the very beginning. When they know you have accepted others, they will too. Don’t let their ancestry fool you. Some say they were bred to be fighting dogs, however since their ancestry goes all the way back to 200 B.C., and they were nearly extinct by the 1970s, the breed is not anything like what it was historically. They actually have become a breed you can count on to be a cherished member of the family and a good companion til the end.

Shar-Pei are generally good with kids. Provided they have been socialized from youth, they make an outstanding family pet. They are very laid-back and tolerant of touching. If they don’t like something they usually just walk away.

Make sure you touch them regularly to acclimate them to being handled. Their feet, their mouths, and other areas of their body to keep them from being sensitive in any particular area. Regular brushing, petting, brushing of teeth, and nail clipping will keep them used to human touch. Also, it should go without saying, teaching your children to be respectful and kind to your pet will go a long way.

Treat yourself to a wonderful pup that will bring you endless happiness and smiles.

My first slideshow production of my favorite dogs!