Shar-Pei
Description:
Despite the fact that it may well be one
of the oldest breeds in the world, until recent
years the Chinese Shar-Pei (which means sand-paper
coat in Chinese) was also considered one of the
rarest. The breed has existed in China for over
2000 years and fanciers believe the breed was
originally used as a fighting dog. This rare breed
almost became extinct during China's politically
charged years in the 1970s. Fanciers in Hong Kong
and Taiwan appealed to American dog-enthusiasts
for help in saving and perpetuating the breed.
Several of the dogs were exported to the States,
where breeders began programs to help bring back
the breed. Now the Chinese Shar-Pei is extremely
popular and is no longer in danger of disappearing.
This unusual dog has a blue-black tongue, similar
to the Chow Chow's; it also has extra saggy wrinkles
as a pup which he tries to fill out as he grows
up. The loose skin is said to have made him less
vulnerable in a dog fight. The Chinese Shar-Pei
requires moderate exercise on a regular basis.
Height:
18 - 20" (45.7 - 50.8cm)
Weight: 35 -
55 lbs (15.6 - 24.6 kg)
Coat Type: There
are two coat lengths, the shorter "horse"
coat, and the longer "brush" coat. The
coat is short and smooth; the skin is looser and
more wrinkled on shoulders, neck and head. Any
solid coat color is permitted with darker shading
allowed on the ears and back. When grooming, be
sure to check and clean skin folds to avoid skin
irritations.
Temperament:
The Shar-Pei is at first wary of strangers and
is intensely loyal, devoted to and protective
of his family. He is also smart and charming,
which wins him admirers everywhere.
Health Problems: Skin
problems due to the many folds; eyelid problems
due to heavy wrinkling on brow; tight lower lip.
Special Interest: In China, this dog is often
referred to as a melon head, or a grandma face.
Classifications:
AKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
CKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Utility Group
FCI: Group 2
ANKC: Group 7 - Non Sporting
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