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History
of the Chinese Shar-Pei
The origin of the Chinese Shar-Pei can be traced to the
province of Kwun Tung and has for centuries existed in the southern
provinces of China. These dogs helped their peasant masters in various
tasks such as herding cattle, guarding the home and family, and have
proven themselves to be qualified hunters of "wild game, usually
wild pigs."
The Shar-Pei is believed to have shared a common origin with the smooth-coated
Chow-Chow because of the blue-black mouths and tongues, possibly the
Great Pyrenees, a source of the double dew claws, and the Tibetan Mastiff.
It was believed in ancient times that the dark mouth of the Chow-Chow,
exposed when barking, helped to ward off evil spirits. The first Shar-Pei
may have appeared as a mutation. The Shar-Pei when translated means
"sand-skin" or "shark skin." This uniquely rough,
loose, prickly coat enabled the Shar-Pei to wriggle out of its opponents
grasp while fighting in the dog pits. The coat when stroked against
the grain may be abrasive, producing a burning, itching sensation. Their
tail is carried over their backs on either side exposing the anus. The
first tail set is a tightly curled tail, a "coin" tail. The
second tail set is the loose curl, and third is carried in an arch over
the back. The Shar-Pei with his tail sticking out straight or between
his legs was thought to be cowardly. The tail should denote bravery.
While viewing the body head on, if the toes were slightly
turned out this was thought to help the dog with balance according to
old-time dog-fighting g fanciers. The Chinese crawling dragon with his
feet pointed east and west was considered a sign of strength. Because
of these poor breeding practices many of the Shar-Pei have bad fronts.
A dog with straight forelegs is correct.
Incidentally, any dog in China that protects property
is called a fighting dog, whereas in Canada and the United States they
are referred to as guard dogs.
Following the establishment of the Peoples' Republic of
China as a communist nation, the dog population was virtually wiped
out. If not for the efforts of Matgo Law of Hong Kong, the Shar-Pei
would not be here today. Due to his dedication to the breed, a small
number of Shar-Pei were brought to the United States in the 1960's and
early 70's. In 1974 American and Canadian fanciers answered Matgo's
appeal for help and in 1976 the first Shar-Pei was registered. The foundation
stock brought over from Hong Kong were of poorer quality then the Shar-Pei
we see today. In August of 1991 the Shar-Pei officially completed the
requirements for recognition by the American Kennel club and was placed
in the Non-Sporting Group. In 1992 the Canadian Kennel Club also officially
recognized and grouped the Shar-Pei in group 6, Non-Sporting n g events.
Since that time several Shar-Pei are now and continuing to become CKC
and AKC champions.
Together the United States and Canada can now boast over
100,000 Shar-Pei in the world. This unique breed is also recognized
by the FCI, HKKC, and the CSPCGB. The CSPCGB operates independently
receiving no input or influence from the [British] Kennel Club. I would
also mention that the FCI recognizes the HKKC standard and not the AKC's
at this time, as per its general policy of using the standard from the
country of the breed's origin.
The AKC Standard
The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It
describes the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the
breed otherwise known as type. Some characteristics, such as size, coat
quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function
for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye color;
but taken together they set this breed apart from all others. The Standard
describes an ideal representative of the breed. No individual dog is
perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the breeder to strive
towards.
Because of copyright concerns over the collection of all the Standards
at any single site storing all the faqs, AKC Standards are not typically
included in the Breed faqs. The reader is referred to the publications
at the end of this document or to the National Breed Club for a copy
of the Standard .
Socialization
Shar-Pei are extremely devotion to their family, and as
with all breeds early socialization is important. Because the Shar-Pei
can be stubborn and somewhat standoffish towards strangers, puppy kindergarten
and general obedience should be a consideration for a new prospective
owner.
Crate Training
Crate training is a positive way to train your dog. Your dog will come
to think of its crate as a safe place to re-treat to when they need
some quiet time.
Showing
Many Shar-Pei throughout the world have gained their titles with Companion
Dog (CD), Companion Dog Excellence (CDX), and Utility Dog (U.D.) degrees.
They have also proven themselves in tracking and retrieving. The Shar-Pei
have won many conformation titles and are known to have an excellent
gait when at full trot.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Why is its tongue black?
Do any other breeds also have a black tongue?
The Shar-Pei shares this distinctive characteristic with only one other
breed, the Chow-Chow, indicating that there may be a common ancestor.
What happens if a Shar-Pei has a spotted black tongue, is it mix?
If the Shar-Pei has a spotted tongue it is a major fault. The tongue
should be a bluish black unless it is a dilute in which case a lavender
tongue is acceptable. A solid pink tongue is a disqualification.
What colors do the Shar-Pei come in?
The Shar-Pei can be a number of colors. The coat must be solid in color
and any Shar-Pei with a "flowered coat" (spotted) or black
and tan in coloration (i.e. German Shepherd) is a disqualification.
Colors include black, cream, fawn, red-fawn, red, sable, apricot, chocolate,
isabella, and blue. The nose may be black or brick (pink with black),
with or without a black mask. A Shar-Pei can also have what is called
a "dilute" coloration. Meaning the nose, nails and anus of
the dog is the same color as the coat, (i.e. chocolate coat with chocolate
nose, nails and anus). All of these color variations are acceptable
and beautiful, but the coat color must be solid and well blended throughout
the whole body of the dog.
The puppies are SO cute and wrinkly! Do they stay this wrinkly?
No, in the adult Shar-Pei the wrinkling is confined mainly to the forehead
and withers. However, some have more wrinkles than others.
Are they good with other dogs? Children? Cats and other pets?
Yes, like most breeds if raised with children and other pets the Shar-Pei
can be a loving member of the family. Puppy kindergarten is a good way
to socialize your puppy with other dogs, people, and unfamiliar surroundings.
When considering a Shar-Pei as your family dog make sure you see the
parents of your prospective pup. This will help you determine what your
pup's temperament will be like. "A well-bred Shar-Pei, bred by
a pedigree-knowledgeable breeder, rarely, if ever, has had a problem
with this in the past 10 years. While it's true some of the original
12 dogs imported to the United States that make up the breed's genetic
foundation in this country were street dogs with nasty dispositions,
conscientious breeders have made tremendous strides in eliminating people-aggressiveness
tendencies." This is why socialization when young is very important.
The Shar-Pei thrive on lots of attention and interaction.
Why do Shar-Pei shy away when a person tries to pet them on the head
or approaches to quickly?
"The breed's eyes are hooded by skin, which limits its peripheral
vision. As a result, they have difficulty seeing people approach from
either side until they're almost directly in front of them. The sudden
appearance startles the dogs, which causes them to shy away. When approached
from the front, Shar-Pei don't react this way." Always let the
dog sniff your hand and allow him/her time to familiarize themselves
with you. Sniffing is a dog's way of making friends just as we say "Hello"
or shake hands. Young children especially should be taught how to approach
a dog and a child should never approach a dog unless with their parent(s)
and the dog's owner are present.
Are they suspicious of strangers? Do they make good watch dogs?
Yes, they are aloof with strangers and make excellent watch dogs. They
are defensive of their home and loved ones. They are an independent
breed, very owner-oriented. "A plus as well as a minus in the training
situation. Independence is a plus because dogs possess the necessary
confidence to work at a distance from their handlers, but it's a minus
because it sometimes translates into stubbornness". Training sessions
should be brief and not with force. Shar-Pei respond best to praise
and or food reinforcement as a reward for good behavior.
Do Shar-Pei snore?
Yes, Shar-Pei snore, some more then others. The Shar-Pei also snort
which may be mistaken for growling. As with all squashed-faced breeds,
Bulldogs, Pugs, etc., snoring and snorting go hand-in-hand.
Do they shed much?
No, only once a year to lighten their dense coat for the summer. Always
use a bristled brush or a hound glove.
How long do they live?
They live to be approximately 8 to 12 years of age but some have been
known to live as long as 15 years or more.
Is the Shar-Pei suitable for apartment living?
Yes, but they need daily exercise otherwise they will begin to feel
pent-up. This should include more then just taking them out to do their
duties.
Are Shar-Pei intelligent?
Shar-Pei are very intelligent and excel in obedience training. They
are quick to learn therefore training should be varied in order to maintain
their interest.
Do Shar-Pei drool?
Only after they eat do they get slobbery due to water getting trapped
in the folds of their muzzle. Oh, and of course if they are offered
some tasty treats!
Can Shar-Pei tolerate extremes in temperature?
Shar-Pei should not be left in the sun for long periods of time as they
can get over heated easily. In cold weather the Shar-Pei are fine but
should not live as an outdoor dog. Remember to put Vaseline on the pads
of their paws to protect them from the salt some cities put down for
vehicles. This salt can burn the pads of their feet and be very painful.
The Shar-Pei do not do well with climate extremes, "because of
the health problems living as an outdoor dog presents (i.e., flea bite
dermatitis, inhalant allergies to plant material) and because of the
breed's possible increased susceptibility to airborne diseases such
as parvo. The social isolation associated with living as an outdoor
(or kennel) dog also is not beneficial to this owner-oriented breed".
What is the general disposition of a Shar-Pei?
"The Shar-Pei is a bright, affectionate dog that makes a terrific
companion animal. In addition it is an able contender in the obedience
or agility ring when trained with the appropriate methods. It is easily
house-trained, exceptionally clean and requires minimal grooming. And,
it is stable and temperamentally dependable when bred by reputable breeders
knowledgeable in genetics"
Health Problems
In general, dogs with any of the following conditions
should not be bred. You want to make sure that the parents of the puppy
you may be considering have been cleared or checked for any of these
conditions. The following health conditions are not present in all Shar-Pei.
This is an introduction to health problems that may occur in this breed
and is not intended as a generalization.
If your veterinarian requires more information about the Chinese Shar-Pei,
send the name and address of your veterinarian (for overseas orders,
send $2.00 in U.S. funds for postage) to:
Jeff Vidt, DVM
210 S. Park Street
Westmont, IL 60559-1940
Entropion
The Shar-Pei are 1 of 14 breeds that can have this condition. This is
where the eyelid rolls in towards the eye, rubbing against the cornea
and irritating this sensitive structure. Watery eyes, infection, even
a corneal ulcer, can occur. Surgical correction is required. Dogs with
this condition should not be bred, as a genetic component is suspected.
Hypothyroidism
The thyroid glands secrete a hormone which controls the basic metabolic
rate of the entire body. Inadequate hormone levels reset the body to
function at a lower metabolic level. In that case, dogs fatten easily
on a normal diet, become sluggish, and are easily chilled. Hair changes
are most noticeable and include loss of hair from the flanks and back,
increased pigmentation of the skin, scaling and seborrhea (an abnormality
in the production of skin cells.) Secondary bacterial infection of the
skin is common. The ears may also be affected, filling with thick, yellow
greasy material which may predispose the dog to ear infections. Blood
tests will determine the level of thyroid function and administration
of thyroid hormone can treat the condition.
Familial Shar-Pei Fever and Amyloidosis
Familial Shar-Pei fever also known as "Swollen Hock Syndrome"
(SHS) typically may include the following symptoms:
Swelling of the hock joint and sometimes other joints can be affected.
Reluctance to move.
Sometimes a swollen painful muzzle.
Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and shallow breathing.
"Familial Shar-Pei Fever (FSF) is an episodic fever disorder. Shar-Pei
with this disorder have one or more bouts of unexplained fever, usually
103-107 degrees but rare cases may go higher. Fevers usually start when
they are less then 18 months old but sometimes the first attack is not
until they are adults. Fever episodes usually become less frequent with
age. Fevers last 24-36 hours in most cases without treatment".
The disorder is "thought to result from an inability to regulate
the immune system. Dogs suffering from this disorder are at risk of
dying from a related disorder, amyloidosis. Affected Shar-Pei with amyloidosis
have an inability to break down chemicals released in the bloodstream
when inflammation results from abnormal deposition of amyloid protein
throughout the body. While not all dogs with Shar-Pei fever die of amyloidosis,
when they do, death most commonly occurs between the ages of 3 and 5
years".
The CSPCA has setup a charitable fund. A tax-deductible donation may
be made payable to:
CSPCA Charitable Fund
c/o Lee Arnold, Chairman,
P.O. Box 7007, Bedminster,
NJ 07921.
Demodectic Mange
The mite, Demodex canis, starts off as small dry areas on the head,
chest, and legs of the Shar-Pei. Because the dog scratches to relieve
the intense itching, the skin becomes red and raw with a leathery look
about it. Check with your veterinarian for prescribed medication, shampoos,
and other appropriate treatment.
Seborrhea Oleosa
Severe rancid body odor which comes from raw, scaly, bloody skin. Could
be caused by hypothyroidism, yeast infections, and or food allergies.
This situation should be immediately discussed with a veterinarian and
the appropriate shampoos and medication can effectively treat this condition.
Malocclusion
Overbites are very common. This can occur due to the misplacement of
the incisors causing an overcrowding. Extraction at a young age can
prevent the adult canines from cutting into the hard palate.
Tight Lip Syndrome
This is where the excess flesh from the lower lip covers the teeth making
it difficult for the Shar-Pei to chew. This excess flesh also traps
food and is usually associated with an overbite.
Ears
Due to the breed standard calling for small ears, this results in the
Shar-Pei having very narrow ear canals. Attention should be taken in
cleaning the ear thoroughly with a vet prescribed ear solution. Do not
use a Q-tip to dig down in the ear canal. Use a make-up pad to gently
clean the ear and then let the dog shake.
Nose - Stenotic Nares
These dogs snore because of excess flesh. If the dog is unable to pass
air with ease, surgery to altar the folds of the nostril may be necessary.
An "elongated soft palate" is likely to be the cause of "respiratory
distress."
Carpal Laxity
This is a weakness is the carpal ligaments which causes instability
and bowing forward in young puppies. Decrease the protein level and
exercise on a non-slippery surface. In severe cases soft wraps will
be in order.
Patellar Luxation
Is where the knee cap slips out of its socket. Any Shar-Pei with this
condition should not be bred.
Hip Dysplasia
A dysplastic dog has an abnormal hip joint where the femur and acetabulum
are misaligned. This can range in severity from mild (controllable)
pain to dogs in such agony they must be put down. Make sure the parents
of any puppy you consider has been cleared of Hip Dysplasia through
the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.
Regurgitation/Vomiting
"Megaesophagus and or diaphramatic hernias may not be detected
until the dog is much older when they will appear underweight or emaciated
with a history of vomiting. This is a developmental defect possibly
a delayed maturation of the esophageal nueromuscular system. Mild cases
in young dogs can improve with careful feeding." Feeding the dog
by elevating the food in such a way as to raise the dog's front end.
Putting food bowls on a stair or two and then allowing them some time
to digest in the same position may help.
Cutaneous Mucinosis
"Mucin is the substance in the Shar-Pei skin that causes all the
wrinkling. It is clear and stringy and acts like glue in fight wounds."
Some Shar-Pei have an excess of Mucin causing it to form clear bubbles
on the skin that may rupture and ooze. May be associated with possible
allergies and can be treated by a alternate day steroid therapy.
Torsion/Bloat
Being one of many deep chested breeds, bloat can occur in Shar-Pei.
Can also be caused by the way you roll your dog. Although similar to
colic in horses, "bloat and torsion occur when the stomach swells
with gas and then twists and cuts off its blood supply. Without timely
surgical intervention the condition is fatal". The dog must see
a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Often complicated by food allergies and or Chronic stress diarrhea.
Usually responds to a strict hypoallergenic diet.
Allergies
Some Shar-Pei can be susceptible to allergies caused by food, grass,
plants (indoor and outdoor), flea bite dermatitis an allergy based condition
where the dog develops an itchy rash in reaction to flea saliva after
being bitten. Try to keep the dog's living quarters and play area as
flea free as possible. Other allergies are "Inhalant allergies"
that causes the dog to lick his/her paws, scratch, and rub its muzzle.
"Eliminating the allergy's cause, using the correct type of shampoo
and administering antihistamines or cortisone are common forms of treatment".
Always consult a Shar-Pei knowledgeable veterinarian for proper treatment
and care. "In addition some breeders believe the Shar-Pei has a
weakened immune system that makes it more susceptible e to and less
able to recover from airborne viruses such as parvo. This condition
makes timely inoculation especially important".
Cancer
"In regard to cancer, several forms have a high incidence in the
breed. At present, the CSPCA is surveying club members to determine
which are most prevalent. Once isolated, the organization's Charitable
Trust plans to fund relevant cancer research".
Diet
Food allergies may cause skin and stomach diseases. This breed should
have a well balanced, preservative free diet and one that is low in protein,
approximately "(16-21%)." Some alternatives to rawhide and store
bought treats are raw or cooked veggies when ever you are steaming some
up for yourself, nothing from the cabbage family or onions, and most fruits
such as bananas, apricots, apples, etc. are also healthy alternatives
to store bought treats. No table scraps because we as humans tend to dress
up our veggies with butter, margarine, salt, sugar, and/ or gravy. Anything
with soya or beef, dyes, or chemical preservatives liked BHA, BHT, or
Exthoxyquin should be avoided. Instead look for foods that are preserved
with vitamins A, C, or E. A chemical-free food is often enough to make
a huge difference in a dog's health.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Grooming
The Shar-Pei requires minimal maintenance. Brushing with a good bristle
brush every other day keeps its unique coat in excellent condition.
Bathing may occur occasionally using warm water and a good shampoo recommended
by a vet. Contrary to popular belief the Shar-Pei do not need to be
bathed every week. This constant bathing will make the skin dry (increase
itching) and cause the coat to look dull. By doing this you will wash
all of the dog's natural oils away. Only bath the dog if he/ she smells
with a vet recommend shampoo for general bathing needs. The nails of
a Shar-Pei grow fast so frequent clipping is in order. Always touch
your puppy's paws and the puppy all over to get them used to grooming.
Because the Shar-Pei have tiny ears frequent cleaning is a must. Usually
once every week or every two weeks depending on the individual dog.
Use cotton swabs or make-up pads (cotton ones) with an ear solution
from your vet. Do not use Q-tips as it may push the waxy build-up further
down the ear canal. After you have cleaned the ears let them shake and
then later clean the excess. The ears, eyes, and the whole body in general
should be inspected frequently to have a happy, healthy Shar-Pei.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Puppy Buyer's Guidelines
These are just a few suggestions a new prospective owner of a Shar-Pei
puppy should be aware of and consider when looking for a new puppy:
* Puppies should at least be 8 weeks of age before going to a new home.
A puppy needs adequate time with his/ her littermates and mother for
proper socialization to begin.
* Buyers should see both parents. "Although it's
normal for a Shar-Pei to behave in a standoffish manner when in the
presence of strangers, neither the sire nor the dam ( nor puppies) should
behave in a shy or aggressive manner.
* Buyers should look for a puppy that is confident not
shy, aggressive or fearful.
* Health should be of the utmost importance for a new
prospective owner. No discharge from the eyes or nose, distended or
potbellied abdomen, dull coat, and no lethargic behavior.
* Check with the kennel club in your area if you are not
sure about what papers you are entitled to, but you should not be asked
to pay extra for the registration papers of your new puppy. Papers included
in the purchasing g price of your pup are a signed pedigree, copies
of the contract of sale and health guarantee, a complete health record
that includes the dates of worming and a veterinarian's certificate
proving inoculation. "The breeder also should provide written proof
he or she will take the puppy back within a limited period of time if
it is found to be ill or suffering from some defect. Dogs should be
examined by a veterinarian within 48 hours of the sale. Pet quality
dogs should be sold with a spay/ neuter contract or limited (i.e. non-breeding)
registration".
* The price of a pet quality Shar-Pei, and again it depends
on where you live, should be between "$300-$500" in the United
States and in Canada $600-$800. Show quality starts at $1000 and escalates
from there.
Shar-Pei Mailing List
This is the website for eGroups. At this link you will find a list of
email groups geared to Chinese Shar-Pei fanciers.
http://www.egroups.com/search?query=shar-pei
Author
Heidi Merkli (heidi@direct-internet.net)
Created Feb. 6, 1995.
Revision: March 14, 1999
Changes to rescue and club sections
Revision: Sept. 28, 1998
Changes to and new hyper links added.
Revision: Feb. 22, 1998
Changes to health, grooming, diet, FAQ's sections. Addition:
Puppy Buyer's Guidelines.
Revision: Oct. 24, 1997
Additions to frequently asked question section. Correction to
mailing list address. |
Revision: Sept. 16, 1997
Changes to health and rescue sections.
Additions: Crate Training, Vet List and Mailing List.
Revision: March 10, 1997
Changes to health, rescue and FAQ's sections.
Revision: July 1, 1996
Changes to health and rescue sections.
Copyright 1995-2001 by Heidi Merkli.
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