home Auditorium 8 How to care for, feed and raise Shar Peis. Warlike Shar Pei: description and characteristics of the breed Purebred Shar Pei

How to care for, feed and raise Shar Peis. Warlike Shar Pei: description and characteristics of the breed Purebred Shar Pei

Shar Peis are easy to care for, so they will not cause much trouble to the owner. The dog does not have a characteristic odor and is not too abundant. The most sensitive and vulnerable part of a pet’s body is the ears. The ear canals are thin and poorly ventilated, so water ingress can seriously affect your pet’s health. Dogs of this breed categorically do not like to bathe; they instinctively feel that this can cause harm. But still, once a month the pet should be subjected to water procedures. Try to avoid getting water on the dog's head; plug his ears with cotton swabs.

Raising a Shar Pei is a difficult task for beginning breeders. The dog can show character and be stubborn at the most inopportune moment. He remembers commands easily, but may resist following them.

For washing you need to use a special shampoo, because representatives of this breed often suffer from skin irritations. Use a brush during bathing to remove dead hair. Thoroughly rinse the shampoo out of the folds. After hygiene procedures, it is necessary to dry the coat thoroughly, do not leave moisture in the folds. You can use a hairdryer for thorough drying.

Brush your pet several times a week with a special rubber brush with short teeth. Shar Peis have no undercoat, so shedding is almost unnoticeable. During this period, comb daily. The dog's nails grow long, they need to be trimmed regularly so that the toes are formed correctly. Please note that there are blood vessels on the claws, try not to go beyond this line. Check your eyes regularly for discharge and wipe them with a slightly damp cloth.

Shar Pei needs balanced physical activity and active walks. This helps the dog keep fit and control its temperament.

Shar Pei nutrition

Basically, breeders of this dog breed try to feed their pets high-quality dry food, which is caused by the high balance of the finished product. However, some dog owners adhere to classical methods, feeding their pets cereals and fresh meat. It is forbidden to give your Shar Pei the following foods: avocado, chocolate and any sweets, garlic, fatty and smoked meat, fruits and berries with seeds, nuts, large quantities of tomatoes and canned vegetables. As treats for your dog, it is better to use special cookies that are sold in pet stores.

Among animal lovers, the most popular breed of dog is the Shar Pei. The history and characteristics of the distribution of the animal are ambiguous.

For many years, Shar Peis, whose origin is associated with China, were quite rare, but over time they began to be of interest in many countries around the world.

History of the origin of the breed

The Shar Pei is an ancient breed whose homeland is considered to be China. It is believed that it comes from two also now known breeds - the Chow Chow or the Tibetan Mastiff. You can verify the similarity from the photo of the Shar Pei, whose fur is not sufficiently reliable protection against severe cold.

However, compared to the ancient ancestors of the breed, modern dogs look less athletic, they have more folds and have become smaller at the withers.

An interesting fact is that this breed belongs to a group of dogs that differs minimally in DNA from the wolf.

In southern China, Shar Peis were used as working, hunting, and guard dogs. For noble residents, these animals had no value, but due to the elasticity of their skin, they were irreplaceable in hunting - the ease with which Shar-Peis left the mouth of a wolf was simply unique.

This property began to be used in organizing dog fights.

With the change in the political system in China in recent centuries, these dogs were destroyed because they were identified with prosperity. Thanks to the emigrants, the breed was saved.

In the 70s of the last century, active breeding work began in the United States. However, the big disadvantage was that virtually all animals that exist outside of Asia came from the 200 animals that were exported. This had a significant impact on the health of the breed.

The modern American Meat-Mouth breed type differs from its Asian relatives Bone-Mouth. Americans have a more massive head with a greater number of large folds, and the animal itself looks thicker.

The breeders managed to improve the dog’s character by adapting it to the urban environment. But at the same time, there are often cases when Shar Pei puppies have poor health. That is why it is recommended to cooperate only with well-known and trusted nurseries.

Description of the breed

Proportional, even in length and height, the Shar Pei can be up to 51 cm at the withers. And the body weight is 19-29 kg. Characterized by a wide chest and the presence of wrinkles throughout the body.

The dogs are very strong, and the presence of folds is only misleading. The tail is short and in the form of a ring of regular shape.

It is distinguished by a large head with a muzzle and skull of approximately equal size. The entire head is covered with folds. The tongue and gums have a blue-black tint.

There are animals with a black nose, but, as a rule, its shade matches the color of the coat. Triangular ears are small in size, their tips droop towards the eyes.

The characteristics of the description of the Shar Pei breed are due to the elasticity of the skin, which is very hard. The dogs have a single straight coat that is smooth to the touch. In some varieties the fur may become very loose, creating a prickly feeling.

There are short-haired, long-haired types, as well as Shar-Peis with “bear hair”.

Pigmented color with black pigment having varying intensities and can vary widely. There are about eight such shades - this includes a pure black version, fawn, cream, red, etc.

Also popular are 6 dilutes with no black pigment - chocolate, apricot, cream, etc.

Character traits

The Shar Pei dog does not have a strictly designated character type due to uncontrolled breeding. Thoroughbred animals with excellent pedigree are very predictable in behavior, get along well with all family members, and can demonstrate loyalty.

But at the same time they do not lose their independence and love of freedom. It is difficult to obey training and displays its attitude towards its owner with restraint.

He treats strangers with caution, but does not show aggression. At the same time, he perfectly senses his territory and protects it. The specifics of the Shar Pei dog can be clearly seen from its photo.

Socialized animals are calm when communicating with a child, but do not tolerate rudeness and cruelty. Poor peripheral vision causes a fearful reaction to sudden movements.

Shar Peis do not get along well with other animals, so it is advisable to keep them alone. In a conflict with other dogs, they are not inclined to retreat, protecting their territory and food.

Shar Pei can also show aggressiveness towards other animals, showing their hunting instinct. Therefore, in the same territory as cats, they will also have conflicts.

This is a leader breed by nature. The dog will always be ready to claim the role of leader of the pack. Therefore, in the process of education, the owner must initially show his dominance. When walking, it is advisable to use a leash, because in pursuit of other animals, a Shar Pei can simply run away.

This breed is well adapted to life both in the yard and in an apartment. Withstands the stress of walking perfectly. At home they are moderately active. They do not like water, dirt and puddles on the street. The noise they make is insignificant, and they get used to the toilet very quickly.

How to care for Shar Peis

These dogs are unpretentious in grooming, but they do require regular brushing. The disadvantage is the susceptibility to molting, especially during seasonal periods. For short-haired species, this problem is less pronounced.

But remember that Shar Pei fur is a serious allergen.

Particular attention should be paid to caring for wrinkles, especially on the face. After all, this is where leftover food and water accumulate. The accumulation of fat and dirt can lead to serious inflammation.

Questions often arise about what to feed your Shar Pei. The animal's body needs animal protein. Therefore, you should choose foods rich in these elements.

Three main feeding schemes can be used:

Natural food consisting of 3/4 protein-containing foods and 1/4 raw vegetables that have been pre-grated. You can add meat, poultry, and fermented milk products to your food. At the same time, the animal tears up the food, which means it is necessary to give the meat in pieces. There is no need to douse them with hot water.

Feeding with complete dry food. It must be premium or super premium. In this case, you must follow the dosage; you should not often change the brand of food; it is important to carry out regular deworming. The risk of developing allergies in the animal should also be taken into account.

Mixed diet of natural food and dry food. It is important to follow the regime here - you need to feed twice. The first time, dry food is used, and the second time, meat or various offal. Mineral supplements are helpful.

But you can’t mix food with meat. It is permissible to soak the food in warm water or mix it with fermented milk products.

Animal health and possible problems

The lifespan of Shar Pei dogs ranges from 8 to 14 years. This breed is characterized by susceptibility to a variety of diseases and poor health.

The most difficult is a curable hereditary disease such as fever. Due to the presence of a large number of folds on the muzzle, peripheral vision is weakened.

Numerous eye diseases are also a concern. And accumulations of fat and food debris are fraught with the occurrence of inflammatory and allergic processes.

Dirt can also accumulate in the ears, the structure of which does not allow the canal to be properly cleaned. This can lead to ear inflammation.

A Shar Pei dog can be an excellent friend, guard and just a pet. This is a freedom-loving animal that does not get along very well with other four-legged inhabitants of the house.

The Shar Pei is calm with children, but is always ready to take a dominant position in relations with its owner.

Photo of Shar Pei

Shar Pei is a breed of dog whose comical appearance hides a real fighter. From time immemorial, in their homeland in China, these dogs have acted as fearless guards and dexterous hunters. The peculiarity of the breed’s character is the combination of tenderness and attentiveness towards its owners with assertiveness and irreconcilability towards enemies.

Shar Pei is one of the oldest dog breeds native to China. In ancient times, the breed was used in Tibet as participants in dog fights. The unusual skin of the animals helped prevent injury to the body during the fight.

There is no reliable confirmation of the history of the origin of the Shar Pei. According to some versions, the Shar Pei came from smooth-haired Chow Chows or from ancient mastiffs. The assumptions are based on the similarity of the appearance of these dogs with the appearance of the Shar Pei. The main argument in favor of this version is the fact that only these breeds have a characteristic blue tongue.

DNA analysis of Shar Peis proves that the breed is at least three thousand years old. According to historians, the breed existed during the Han Dynasty (202-220 BC). Clay figurines of squat dogs with square bodies and a gloomy expression on their faces adorned the burial grounds of that time. However, it is not possible to accurately identify these sculptural images with the ancestors of the Shar Pei, since Chinese art is characterized by stylized images.

The build of the Shar Pei allows us to accurately assume that its ancestors were fighting dogs from the town of Ty-Lee. Historians claim that peasants from this area loved dog fighting, turning it into gambling, and bred special dogs for this purpose. The number of Shar Pei owners during the Han Dynasty was large, but with the advent of the Ming Dynasty, interest in the breed began to wane.

Another blow to the breed's numbers was dealt during the spread of communist ideas in China, when domestic animals were declared a symbol of uselessness and began to be exterminated en masse. By 1950, only a few litters of Shar Peis survived in Taiwan and Macau.

The Shar Pei dog breed is one of the oldest breeds native to China.

The revival of the breed began in 1965, when breeder S.M. Chen bred the Shar Pei Lucky. The male was purchased by a breeder from the USA, A. G. Smith. In 1971, photographs of the rare breed were published in Dogs magazine, with a caption suggesting the possibility of the breed becoming extinct.

Breeder Matgo Lowe called out to American dog breeders asking for help in reviving the Shar Pei breed. After this, a group of enthusiasts formed, looking for the remaining specimens of the breed and transporting them to Hong Kong. The Chinese Shar Pei population has begun to recover and spread throughout the world.

In 1971, the Chinese Fighting Dog was registered in the United States, and in 1973 the breed received the name Shar Pei. The first breed standard was registered by the FCI in 1976. At the same time, the first pedigree of the Shar Pei was created. In 1985, the Chinese Shar Pei received recognition from the American Kennel Club. In Russia, the first representatives of the breed appeared in the early 90s of the last century.

Appearance and breed standard, photographs

Shar Pei has a unique exterior. A strong, dense, short body and a square head are covered with deep folds. The specific muzzle with small ears makes the dog look like a hippopotamus. The Shar Pei is a medium-sized dog breed. Overall the dog looks somewhat asymmetrical.

In appearance, Shar-Peis have some similarities with mastiffs. Both breeds have flexible, folded skin and a blunt, wide muzzle. However, mastiffs are much larger in size.

The breed has the following standards:

Height Shar Pei at the withers - from 46 to 51 centimeters. Weight Shar Pei - from 18 to 25 kilograms.
Head massive in shape tends to be square. The skull is flat. The muzzle is wide.
Nose large, open nostrils, black
Eyes almond-shaped, covered with layers of skin, so they have a gloomy expression.
Ears small, thick, triangular in shape. Set high, close to the skull.
Unusual oral coloring- one of the characteristics of the breed. The gums, palate and tongue of Shar-Peis are bluish-black or lavender in color. Isabella and blue dogs have pink spots on their tongues.
Lips slightly swollen, thick.
Bite scissor-shaped. The lower teeth are perpendicular to the jaw, the upper teeth overlap the lower row of teeth.
Frame has a length almost equal to the height of the dog at the withers. The back is straight and wide. The topline is slightly sunken in the loin area. The stomach is tucked.
Neck firmly set on the shoulders, strong.
Tail thick, cone-shaped, ring-shaped, high-set.
Limbs muscular, parallel, straight. The front ones are moderately spaced. The hind legs are wider apart than the front ones, with moderate eversion of the joints.

The following deviations from the standard are serious disadvantages:

Defects include deep and too frequent folds of the skin.

Underbite.
Tapering muzzle.
Big ears.
Long wool.
Low set tail.

Disqualifying faults:

Coat type and color options

A feature of the breed is hypertrophied folding skin. The dog is covered with folds from head to toe. The first folds appear already on the third day after birth, by the month there are 6-7 folds. At 2-3 months, sharpeis turn into ruffled hippos, but gradually some of the folds smooth out.

Modern standards allow for folds only on the head, withers and tail area. The rest are considered undesirable. However, some experts do not agree with these requirements or are not at all familiar with them, which is why the most folded specimens often win at exhibitions.

Currently, there is a special type of Shar Pei - “extreme”. This is the name given to specimens with hypertrophied folds throughout the body. The skin of such Shar-Peis literally hangs down like tails all over the body, making the dog overweight and inactive.

This is what the first representatives of the breed looked like, and in the civilized world such increased folding is a disadvantage. Although, to please the lovers of “folded” Shar-Peis, breeders deliberately produce such specimens.

The skin is covered with short hair without undercoat. By the nature of its coat, the Shar Pei resembles a plush toy.

Shar Peis come in a variety of colors, from cream to black, with some members of the breed having a dark mask on their face.

Shar-Peis are divided into three types based on their coat type:

Horse - hair length up to 1 centimeter. The number of folds decreases as the puppy grows.
Brush – hair length 2.5 centimeters. The folds decrease throughout the body and remain on the neck and muzzle.
Bear fur - hair length is from 2.5 to 3.5 centimeters. Individuals with this type of coat are not officially recognized as an exhibition breed.

Shar Peis are also classified by color.

Basic color. It has additional pigmentation in the form of a mask and a belt on the back. The main colors include:

black;
cream;
deer;
red fawn;
isabella (cream with a clear admixture of pink tint of varying intensity);
red;
blue (this includes all shades of gray);
sable

Diluted color. Black color is completely absent. The group includes colors:

cream (this also includes a creamy shade);
apricot;
red;
chocolate (all shades from milk to dark chocolate);
lilac;
isabella

Rare, unusual colors are classified into a separate group:

Spotted - with red, blue or chocolate spots on a white background.
Black - black back with light tan marks.

Important. White color without spots is considered unacceptable. This is albinism or breeding marriage. All-white dogs suffer from a variety of genetic diseases.

The appearance of the Shar Pei gives rise to the assumption that it is a gloomy and withdrawn dog, an incorrigible pessimist. But upon closer acquaintance, it turns out that the characteristics of the Shar Pei have nothing to do with its gloomy expression on its face. These dogs are friendly and loving towards their owner and family members. Shar Pei is a kind, cheerful and tactful dog.

Despite their gloomy appearance, Shar Peis are very cheerful and inquisitive dogs.

Shar Peis are characterized by self-sufficiency and stubbornness. Starting from 3-4 months, puppies begin to study household members, test their strength and observe the family hierarchy. They will not listen to family members with low status (for example, children). Only a strong-willed person with a strong character and the qualities of an owner can control a dog.

Shar Peis are distrustful and wary of strangers, both in the house and on the street. Having sensed an uninvited guest behind the door, the dog will not begin to bark heart-rendingly and worry about his appearance in the apartment, but the Shar Pei is ready to meet a stranger on the threshold and fight back in case of danger at any time. Moreover, the size of the Shar Pei’s opponent does not frighten him. He is ready to get into a fight with anyone, even the strongest male.

At the same time, Shar Peis love animals that grew up on the same territory, and they are often connected by good relations. The Shar Pei is kind and kind to children, so it gets along well with them, but children need to be taught how to handle a dog, otherwise some problems may arise.

You should not grab the dog by the legs or suddenly place your hand on it. Fearfulness is associated with the visual characteristics of Shar-Peis: their peripheral vision is weak due to large eyelids, and unexpected touches frighten them. If a puppy is constantly frightened, he will grow up to be aggressive and embittered.

Another feature of Shar Peis is the ability to change in the blink of an eye. While the owner is relaxing on the sofa or busy with his own business, the Shar Pei will sleep peacefully next to him or on his own bedding. But as soon as you pick up a leash and call your pet for a walk, it turns into a cheerful, playful dog, a real choleric person. Despite the apparent clumsiness, the dog moves actively and loves to play.

The Shar Pei is an affectionate dog, loves to be scratched behind the ears, and loves to lick hands. The owner for him is the center of the universe, and the character of the pet will completely depend on the character and lifestyle of its owner. He will adapt to any regime: he will happily go jogging together or sleep long in the morning and patiently wait for a walk, he will have fun with his owner at a country picnic or be sad with him, looking out the window of a city apartment. If sadness is felt in the owner’s voice, the Shar Pei will not bother him with games, but will pretend that he is also sad.

The Shar Pei adapts to its owner's regime: it can lie on the sofa all day with its owner or accompany him on a long walk.

A distinctive feature of Shar Peis is their high intelligence. They are able to instantly make the right decision in unusual situations. Thanks to its high intelligence, the Shar Pei never loses its self-control. He does not like loneliness, but if he remains in the apartment, he will patiently wait for the owner, and will not start mischief, chewing furniture and any things. Dogs living in country houses walk strictly along paths and never enter garden beds or flower beds; this also speaks of their incredible intelligence.

Shar Peis show their best character traits exclusively with close people. Distrust of strangers can manifest itself in the form of aggression, especially if the stranger is intrusive or breaks the distance with the owner or dog.

The dog needs early socialization. The Shar Pei is not inclined to deliberately enter into conflicts with people and other animals, but it can be scared of them and nervous when strangers approach. It is important for the owner to teach the dog to treat others calmly.

A model of correct behavior in the house and on the street should be demonstrated to the Shar Pei, starting from a very early age. The pet needs to be shown what can and should be done and what is unacceptable. From an early age, the puppy must learn who is boss in the house. With a Shar Pei, you need to establish a leadership position, otherwise he will take on the role of leader, and it will be impossible to re-educate him. When teaching your Shar Pei to commands and rules of behavior, you should show confidence and perseverance.

For following commands, the Shar Pei should be rewarded with treats or praise. Screaming, let alone hitting a dog, is unacceptable. The dog is universal, so it can be raised as a guard, watchman, or loyal friend.

Shar Pei socialization must begin immediately after the puppy is brought into the home.

The ideal dog that you can have in a city apartment without any problems is the Shar Pei. Keeping and caring for a Shar Pei will not cause much trouble. It will not shed a lot of hair, and the furniture will not be damaged by the teeth of a pet left alone in the apartment. Shar Pei puppies do not even need to be taught to go to the toilet only outside; they will patiently wait for a walk to do “their business”.

The Shar Pei has a special place in the apartment. It must be positioned in such a way that the dog can see the owners, but does not end up in a draft. The dog should sleep on a spacious, medium-hard bed made from natural materials.

Caring for a Shar Pei consists of several activities.

Bathing is carried out as soiled, on average, once every 3 months. Shar-Peis do not like water, and they need to be accustomed to showering as early as possible. For bathing, you need to use a special shampoo for short-haired dogs.

Human shampoos cannot be used for Shar-Pei. Fragrances can cause severe allergic reactions. In addition, such products are difficult to wash off and the dog can become poisoned when licking. There is no need to wash Shar-Peis frequently, as they do not have the characteristic dog smell. After a shower, the dog should be thoroughly dried and dried, especially in the fold area.

Combing is carried out once a week, and during molting every other day. During shedding, loose hair is removed with a hard rubber mitten. Shar-Peis do not need a haircut. Trimming is also highly undesirable.

During shedding, the Shar Pei is combed with a rubber mitten every 2 days.

Nail trimming, paw care

Nails are trimmed after they have grown 1 mm. It is impossible to cut a Shar Pei's claws short, as there is a risk of damaging the blood vessels located close to the edge of the claw. It is impossible not to trim the claws at all, as they interfere with the formation of the paws and provoke dislocations.

Check the paw pads regularly. You need to wipe your paws and lubricate them with a special cream after every walk.

Caring for your teeth, ears and eyes

The eyes and ears are the weak points of the Shar Pei: due to the structural features of the skin covering them, there is an increased risk of developing inflammation. The eyes should be wiped regularly with a damp pad.

Pieces of lemon, tomatoes, or special seeds that can be purchased at a pet store can help rid your pet of tartar. Sometimes there is too much hair growing in a dog's ears, which impairs air circulation in them. Excess hairs need to be cut off or plucked with your fingers. It is very undesirable to get water into your ears while swimming or swimming in a pond.

Catering

What to feed the Shar Pei - dry food or natural products - is decided by the owner himself. or - a completely acceptable option. They contain natural ingredients, their composition is balanced, and there is no need to spend time preparing food.

Shar Pei can be fed premium or super premium dry food.

When choosing dry food for your Shar Pei, it is advisable to consult with the breeders from whom you purchased the puppy. Abruptly changing your puppy's brand or diet can cause digestive upsets I, so it’s better to stick to the usual menu.

When choosing food, pay attention to the amount of protein in it: it should come first in the composition. The composition should not contain animal fat, meat flour, or offal. Dyes and sweeteners are very harmful to Shar Pei. Recommended brands: , Go.

Important. When feeding, you should strictly adhere to the recommendations on the serving size on the package. For puppies, the granules are pre-soaked; for an adult dog, they are given dry. But if an adult Shar Pei refuses to chew dry granules, soaking them is acceptable.

Shar Pei should not be overfed, since due to a low metabolism and lack of physical activity, these dogs are prone to obesity.

Feeding natural food is cheaper than dry food, but requires a certain amount of time. Balancing a straight dog is quite difficult for a Shar Pei.

The main menu should include:

Experts prohibit including the following foods in the diet of Shar-Peis:

Shar Pei should not be given soups or other liquid foods, which can cause indigestion and kidney problems. This breed should be fed only solid or dense food.

Health and life expectancy

The number of hereditary diseases in Shar Peis is quite large.

The most common are:

The Shar Pei's weakest organ is its eyes. A common occurrence is sudden loss of vision. At first, eye problems manifest themselves in the form of profuse lacrimation, suppuration, redness of the mucous membrane and retina. Some pus and increased tear production are completely normal. It is enough to wipe your eyes with a damp cotton pad, you can add a chamomile decoction.

If the formation of pus is abundant, or tears flow in a stream, immediately consult a veterinarian. This may be a consequence of allergies, conjunctivitis, or entropion. Then urgent treatment or even surgery is necessary.

Many Shar Peis suffer from entropion of the eyelids; this problem is solved with surgery.

To help your dog, you need to urgently identify the allergen and eliminate its effect on the body. Without excluding contact with the product or substance that caused the allergy, treatment is useless. After eliminating the allergen, treatment is prescribed to eliminate itching and remove toxins from the body. The dog is given a therapeutic diet. To relieve symptoms, you can give your pet Suprastin or Tavegil. The selection of treatment must be made by a veterinarian.

The Shar Pei's health is most vulnerable during puppyhood, while it is actively growing. The maturation and growth of the Shar Pei continues until 8-9 months, then it is considered a young dog. With proper care, Shar Peis live 10-12 years.

From the age of 16 months, females are considered adults; The duration of estrus is from 21 to 28 days. . The readiness for mating of a young individual is determined by specialists from kennel clubs.

Rules for choosing a puppy

Shar Pei is a fairly common breed, so purchasing a puppy will not be a problem. The choice must be taken with maximum responsibility, since amateurs and unscrupulous breeders have become involved in breeding the breed. As a result, the chances of purchasing a dog that does not meet the standards have increased.

Photo. Shar Pei puppies

Chocolate Shar Pei puppy in the photo

The breed is guaranteed by contacting a specialized nursery.

You can buy a purebred Shar Pei puppy from the following nurseries:

Moscow – starting at $250 (http://www.sharpei-land.com/, http://chinese-sharpei.ru/, http://www.dogtalisman.ru/, http://www.shar -pei-puppy.ru/breeder/).
St. Petersburg - at prices starting from $300 (http://www.askona-star.spb.ru/, http://www.vita-shamo.ru/).

When choosing, you need to take into account compliance with the following parameters:

Advantages and disadvantages of the breed

The advantages of the breed include:

Devotion to the owner.
Cleanliness.
Balance and friendliness.

Flaws:

Tendency to allergic reactions.
Difficulty in organizing food.
Problems with training.
The need for long walks.

Shar Pei... A breed whose true origin is hidden in the depths of centuries, shrouded in mysticism and mystery. Almost disappeared from the face of the earth several timesChinese Shar Peiwas revived again and again thanks to the incredible efforts of dog handlers, breeders, and ordinary amateurs, who by chance united into a single team.

Interesting and amazing not only because of the history of origin and appearanceChinese Shar Pei breed. Photo, breed standards, character, nuances of caring for puppies, features of keeping adult dogs - this will be discussed further.

The mystery of the “Han dog”: the origin of the breed

The beginning of the existence of the breed goes back to ancient times, back to three thousand years. The name of the breed is of Chinese origin. This is no coincidence. Images on household items and figurines found during archaeological excavations eloquently indicate that the Shar Pei was already known during the reign of the Chinese “Golden Age” of economic and cultural development of China - the most important milestone in the life of the “Han dog”.

The exact place of its appearance is not documented. Researchers suggest thatChinese Shar Pei origincan lead its way both from the south and from the north of China:

South coast: Kwong Tung (Dag Let village) or Guangdong (Taili) provinces.
Northern China, Tibet.

In ancient times, the Shar Pei was used as a universal dog that guarded the home, guarded livestock in the pasture, protected peasant farms from mongooses, and hunted in the mountains and on the plains.

Often, at the will of the owner, the Shar Pei became a fighting dog. Strong jaws firmly dug into the flesh of the opponent, small ears pressed tightly to the head did not allow the enemy to grab onto them, strong bones adequately withstood any shock, the abundance of folds, prickly fur and stubborn disposition gave an additional advantage in battle. The only quality that prevented him from turning into an exclusively fighting dog was his peacefulness. Good-natured, striving for peace and harmonyShar Pei - Chinese fighting dog - presentI didn’t become a real fighter. However, participation in dog fights opened the doors of nobles' houses, temples and even the imperial palace towards him. The Shar Pei became a luxury item, a source of income, a favorite of the nobility, gradually becoming inaccessible to ordinary people.

On the verge of extinction

During the Ming Empire (1368-1644), China reached its maximum level of cultural and economic development, but could not withstand the onslaught of Manchu troops coming from the north. The country plunged into a series of wars, and a crushing wave of devastation and hunger swept through it. This situation caused a loss of interest inChinese SharpeWell, the number of dogs began to decline rapidly.

The policy of the Chinese communists led to the threat of complete extinction of the breed on the territory of the state. All the forces of the working people were thrown into building socialism. In such conditions, dogs began to be considered an unaffordable luxury, taking away the last food from the working people.

The Shar-Pei's famous fellow countrymen - the Pekingese and the Chow Chow - had by this time firmly established themselves in Europe, so their fate was not so tragic. Shar Peis, which had not yet become widespread, began to disappear at an alarming rate, and by 1970 the breed had become truly unique.

Chinese Phoenix, or the Feat of Dog Handlers

Dog breeders from different countries joined forces and searched for surviving Shar Peis throughout China for five years. The rescued dogs were taken first to Hong Kong, then to America.

The breed standard was regulated in 1976. After just two yearsAmerican (or Chinese) Shar Peitook a worthy place in the Guinness Book of Records as the rarest and most exotic breed. This served as wonderful advertising and played a big role in the revival of the Chinese dog.

In the 80s XXcentury, Shar Peis were brought to Europe, and in the 90s - to Russia. Just 4 years later, exotic dog puppies were sold on the poultry market at prices starting from $1,000, and a year later the cost increased to 3.5-4 thousand dollars.

The task of restoring and further improving the breed's characteristics was complicated by the fact that most of the documents related to the origin of the dog and its breeding were destroyed by order of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, further breeding of the breed was kept secret, and Chinese Shar Pei puppies were sold at an incredible price.

Meet the Shar Pei. First impression

Some external features of the Shar Pei lead scientists to believe that the ancestors of the Chinese dog were Molossians (ancient mastiffs) and Chow Chows. From the Molosser the Shar Pei took strength, solidity, and a certain monumentality. It is similar to the Chow Chow due to its similar physique and blue tongue, which, according to legend, is a talisman that protects the dog’s owner from evil spirits.

The very name of the breed (sa-pei - “sand skin”) is interesting and speaks of another exotic feature of the breed. The adjective “sandy” in this case does not refer to the color of the animal, but to the structure of the coat, which feels like granular, prickly sand. On the back and sides the hair is straight, short, raised, like bristles, on the limbs it is smooth.

If the object of discussion becomesChinese Shar Pei, breed characteristicsFirst of all, it begins with a description of the amazing folded skin. In puppies, loosely hanging skin creates abundant folds in the head and neck area and covers the entire body. As they grow older, folds may remain only on the neck, withers and head.

When you look at a Shar Pei, you get the feeling that a fur coat that doesn’t fit is put on a small dog. The presence of folds may presumably indicate that the loosely hanging skin was formed as a result of the breeding of significantly smaller individuals from dogs of impressive size. This statement is to some extent based on historical evidence of the large size of the Shar Pei’s ancestors, weighing up to 80 kg.

Chinese Shar Pei: description of the breed and international standard

In ancient references to the Sa-Pei, which have reached our time, the exotic breed is described figuratively:

the head is like a pear, the ear is like a thick and small sea mollusk;
the wrinkled muzzle resembles the face of an old man;
the wide and blunt nose resembles the shape of a moth, and the eyes are sad almonds;
the strong neck has a small dewlap, like the withers of a buffalo;
the powerful chest is emphasized by widely spaced front legs, like those of a dragon;
the hard and thick metacarpus resembles a head of garlic, and the claws resemble pincers;
the back is flexible and elastic, like a shrimp;
the tail looks like a hard and thin wire, twisted high above the back.

As a result of selection, the genetic pool of the Shar Pei is mixed with the blood of a chow chow, bulldog, boxer, and bull terrier. This made it possible not only to preserve the historically established characteristics of the exotic dog, but also to obtain the unusual color of the originally red Sa-Pei. Chocolate, black, cream and even blue coat colors add a special charm to this amazing dog and are no longer rare.

TOChinese Shar Pei characteristicsaccording to the modern official standard, received in accordance with the features of the ancient dog:

Average height and strong, square build.
The lower back is strong.
The chest is wide and dropped down.
The neck is not long.
Folds on the head and withers.
The head is large.
The ears are small, thick, rounded, fitting tightly to the skull.
The muzzle is wide along its entire length, full, like a hippopotamus.
The eyes are dark, deep-set, reminiscent of almonds; the expression of the eyes is gloomy.
The tail is curled in a ring.
A strongly built dog is compact and active.
Classification: Molossian group.
The purpose of the dog in accordance with the classification: hunting and guard.

Character traits

Majestic and royally reserved, he treats strangers arrogantly and accepts compliments and affection with a sense of his own importance.

Friendly towards otherschinese shar pei, charactercalm and independent. Doesn't like conflicts. He does not strive to dominate in relationships, but he treats other four-legged animals arrogantly and condescendingly.

The Shar Pei accumulates such feelings as devotion to the family and love for all its members. The owner for him is the center of the universe. Alone he gets bored and sad.

Affectionate, balanced and non-aggressive, he adores children, treats them with care and reverence, and knows how to carefully and quietly evade careless children's hands.

He shows his feelings with restraint, although he still strives to lick his hand or present his folded torso and plush face for scratching. Awkwardly burying its “hippopotamian” muzzle in the owner’s lap, the Shar Pei freezes under the gentle hand, expressing bliss and pleasure with its entire appearance.

Noble, tactful, has a lively, developed mind.

Sometimes it seems to manifestChinese Shar Pei featurestelepath: he is able to capture not only the mood of the owner, but also the intentions of strangers. If it seems to him that an outsider is hostile towards family members, he will take active and decisive action. Therefore, it is not recommended to talk near the dog accompanying the owner, loudly, impulsively waving his arms.

Watchman, shepherd, hunter

Shar Pei hardly barks: neither in the apartment, nor in the yard of the house, nor in camping conditions. It is beneath his dignity to bark just like that, for no reason, over trifles. The Chinese Shar Pei shows its character when a stranger appears at the entrance of the house: it will immediately warn family members about this with a menacing roar or a dull heavy bark. During a hike, neither a stranger, nor a hedgehog, nor a lizard will pass by the tourist camp unnoticed - the Shar Pei will warn about their presence and immediately go to deal with the cause of the disturbance. Slowly, with dignity, almost imposingly.

Not only a good watchman, but also a born hunter. Despite the fact that its peripheral vision is limited by the deep-set eyes, the Shar Pei perfectly focuses its gaze on its prey. In addition, it has a superficial sense of smell. You can often see a picture: a Shar Pei froze in place, his head is raised high, his eyes are wary, and his nostrils are wide open and greedily suck in streams of air with smells only understandable to the Shar Pei, coming from God knows where.

The service qualities of a shepherd inherent in nature turn the Shar Pei into a tireless guardian of order in any situation when, as it seems to him, these qualities need to be demonstrated. If friends, neighbor’s children, colleagues have gathered around the owner, the whole company immediately becomes the object of protection of a Chinese dog, which will “graze” everyone out of the corner of its eye, preventing strangers from approaching him without warning.

And God forbid, during a walk, you leave a Shar Pei unchecked in a field where a herd of cows is grazing! The cows will run from him in a circle, obediently huddling together in a tight ring, and the Shar Pei himself will get real pleasure, catching up and pinching the legs of the sluggish horned ones. At the same time, it is almost impossible to catch up with him alone, since he will dashingly avoid the hands of the catcher, enthusiastically turning the herd in the other direction and continuing to run at a leisurely trot. His movements are harmonious, balanced, free. No animal will be harmed in any way, but the owner’s nerves will be pretty frayed.

Parenting: how to overcome stubbornness

The Chinese Shar Pei has an unusual character. The characteristics of its main qualities can be given in a nutshell:independence and stubbornness. Together with intelligence, developed intuition and intelligence, they create certain difficulties during training.

Shar Pei understands everything that is required of him almost the first time. But it is important for him to realize and comprehend the purpose of executing the command. Despite his activity, he does not like to waste his energy; running, jumping, even sitting and lying down will not be forced. Pressure, and especially the use of physical force, will turn an intelligent and quick-witted dog into a cowardly, evil, aggressive creature. This should absolutely not be allowed.

It is impossible to force a Shar Pei to follow a command - you can only interest him. Patience, perseverance, love, affection - these are the main assistants in training.

It’s difficult to call this process training, becauseChinese Shar Pei breedrequires competent upbringing, similar to teaching a child. The algorithm is simple: ban harmful actions once and for all, encourage and develop useful actions. At the same time, it is important to observe the principle of constancy: if it is impossible, then it is impossible never.The owner believes that the pet should not climb onto the sofa, which means that this should be prohibited at all times, without exception. In the future, it is almost impossible to convince your pet that allowing prohibited actions was just a “bonus promotion”.

In the process of raising a Shar Pei, showing firmness and consistency, it is important to leave freedom of action and space for self-realization. Then next to the owner there will be a noble, friendly dog with an individual character; a true friend, smart, loyal, understanding at a glance, ready to defend family members at any moment.

Chinese Shar Pei: care and maintenance

A little bundle of happiness appeared in the house. To successfully socialize him in a new place, you need to take simple steps. Lower the baby to the floor and leave for 30 minutes to independently explore the territory. Only after this can you offer him something to eat, show him where the water is, the toilet is located, and his own place is located (away from the radiator and drafts).

It is advisable that the bed have sides: Shar-Peis of any age love to rest their heavy heads on them. You can use a rolled towel or a large soft toy as a side.

Feeding

Consulting with the breeder is a rule that must be followed. For the Chinese Shar Pei breed, nutrition is one of the main factors affecting the health of the pet. Therefore, you should strictly follow the recommendations received when purchasing a puppy.

In the future, if there is a need to change the diet, it should be taken into account that you cannot mix natural food and dry food during the same feeding, since they are absorbed differently by the body.

Dry food must be of high quality, balanced to the needs of the breed. The pet must be provided with constant access to a bowl of clean water. Due to the structure of their muzzle, Shar Peis usually drink sloppily, spilling liquid. To maintain cleanliness, a bowl of water can be placed on an absorbent mat or cloth.

When choosing natural food, you should pay attention to the list of prohibited foods:

pasta;
legumes;
pork;
bird with tubular bones;
products with salt and spices, including sausage and smoked meats;
cheeses;
milk.

Among those allowed:

Chinese Shar Pei puppies can receive encouragement and treats in the form of bread crumbs without additives, stringy bones, and tripe.

For the health of your Shar Pei, it is important not to change its diet unless necessary, as this can lead to allergies. No more than 22% protein is allowed in food (dry or natural).

An indicator of a balanced diet is active behavior, age-appropriate body weight, absence of odor, shiny eyes, shiny coat.

The owner's pride and joy - healthy, active, full of energyChinese Shar Pei. Photo of an adult dogpresented below.

Bathing

It is not recommended to bathe a puppy that has arrived at a new place of residence until it has been fully vaccinated.

An adult Shar Pei should be bathed no more than twice a year. More frequent water treatments wash away the natural lubricant and disrupt the balance of the skin, causing dry skin and dandruff. When swimming, you need to make sure that water does not get into your ears, as this can lead to inflammation.

You can only wash your paws often: after every walk, with clean water, without using detergents.

After eating, you should wipe the muzzle in a timely manner so that no food remains remain in the folds, which can lead to skin irritation and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

There is no need to wipe the folds of skin on the body. If an unpleasant odor appears, you can wipe the wool with a damp cloth, adding vinegar to the water (1 tsp per 1 liter of water). But it should be borne in mind that the appearance of an unpleasant odor is almost always a manifestation of the first signs of a skin allergy. Healthy skin and coat do not emit any odors, not even the smell of a dog.

Claws, ears, eyes

Should be trimmed monthlyChinese Sharpeyu claws, thick and massive. In order to do a “manicure” painlessly, carefully and calmly, your pet should be accustomed to the procedure starting from a young age.

It is recommended to clean your Shar Pei's ears infrequently and very carefully. The ear canal is very narrow, and going deeper into it is dangerous. It is necessary to remove dirt only in the auricle, as needed, without using liquid solutions that remain in the narrow ear canal, causing complications. If your pet shakes its head, scratches its ear, and there is an unpleasant odor coming from it, this may be a sign of an infection or an allergic reaction. The only correct solution is to contact a veterinarian.

Healthy Shar Pei eyes usually do not become sour, there is no redness in them, and the eyelids do not swell. Only in the morning, after sleep, a slight souring may appear, which can be removed with a soft cloth. If your pet has tear tracks running down his face, his eyes are sour or red, his eyelids are swollen or crusty, self-medication is strictly not allowed.In this case, a doctor's consultation is required.

Shar Pei in the house - well-being in the family

On photoand in reality it always looks funny and arouses genuine interest. An exotic dog has other advantages that make keeping it in the house desirable:

Small size (suitable for keeping in an apartment).
The dog is neat; at the dacha, he makes his route exclusively along paths, bypassing beds and flower beds.
Despite its small size, it is a reliable guard and defender.
Minimal grooming is required: brush the coat weekly, keep eyes and ears under observation.

The rhythm of a pet's life is a reflection of the life of its owners. He is ready to patiently take a nap on Sunday morning if family members decide to sleep longer, but will gladly go for a walk at the first invitation.

A calm philosopher, guessing desires at a glance, helps relieve stress and improve the climate in the family. Doctors recommend this breed for people with high or low blood pressure and heart disease.

The Chinese “four-legged orchid” - in this image he appeared from the pages of ancient treatises. Adorable plush toy - this is how he turns out onphoto. Chinese Shar Pei - dogsand, who came to us from time immemorial... An inhabitant of palaces and temples, an assistant to simple shepherds and hunters, a fighter and security guard, a psychotherapist and a talisman that protects family happiness. The kindest soul, into which he allows only close, loving people to look into.

Shar Pei looks like a plush toy, but what about keeping and caring for Shar Pei? Puppies of this breed, like adults, touch the hearts of many. The breed was bred in China in the 80s. it was listed in the Guinness Book of Records. It was believed that these dogs were very rare, but now in large cities, while walking your dog, you can meet Shar-Peis. The name of the breed is translated from Chinese as “sand dog”. By the way, the dog comes into ours.

The owners of the cute dog find it hard to believe that they used to hunt with them and even organize fights with their participation in the ring. guarded homes in China. If you wanted an affectionate decorative dog, then think about it, because the Shar Pei’s character is quite strong, he likes to make decisions on his own. However, this is a manageable and humane breed.

How to keep a Shar Pei?

Fans of the breed are delighted with Shar-Peis. They are plush and warm, and the skin is so stretchy, as if it was created by nature for a dog to grow. Caring for a Shar Pei is not difficult, but there are some peculiarities that you will soon learn about.

Watch a video about the dog’s character, care and maintenance of a dog of this breed:

Taking care of your eyes

Shar Pei's eyes will fester a little in the morning. If the pus disappears during the day, there is no need to worry; it is enough to wipe your eyes in the morning with cotton wool soaked in boiled water or chamomile decoction. Sometimes your dog's eyes may become watery. Pull your eyelid with your fingers and see if there is a fallen eyelash there?

If you notice that your puppy’s eyelid is rolled up, you need to go to the veterinarian and get a consultation. These are characteristics of the breed and a cosmetic defect can be removed by performing a simple operation.

Wool

It’s good that Shar-Peis are short-haired and their coat is easy to care for. It is enough to completely bathe the dog several times a year, which is recommended to do when it is warm. During the rest of the year, you can wipe the wool with a damp towel to remove dirt.

Choose a quality shampoo and conditioner. When it's warm outside, you don't need to blow dry your dog. You should not bathe your dog with shampoo often, so as not to dry out the skin and cause dandruff.

Bathing the dog

There is no need to bathe your Shar Pei often.. If you feel that he smells like “dog”, it means he is unwell and you need to see a veterinarian. If you bathe him 2 or more times a month, dandruff will appear on his skin. For swimming you will need:

Basin (quite deep) or do it right in the bathroom;
High-quality shampoo for dogs;
Turn on warm water for the procedure;
After drying, you can use dog powder;
Conditioner for dogs with coarse hair;
Dry the dog only with a towel or it, and then with a hairdryer.

Bathe your dog like this:

Soak cotton balls in sunflower oil and plug the dog’s ears with them. It is best not to wash your dog's hair. If dirty water gets into the ear canals, inflammation will occur. Pour warm water into a (deep) basin or bathtub (not hotter than +35C). It takes enough water to completely cover the dog's paws, up to his chest at most. You need to lay a rubber mat or rag at the bottom of the container. Thanks to this, even if the dog slips, he will not fall.
Place the dog in a prepared bath with warm water. Pour water over the dog and massage the coat with shampoo (ideally sulfur or tar). Ordinary shampoo cannot be used, as the skin will become irritated and red. Rinse the dog's fur thoroughly but carefully with clean water.
The dog needs to be dried with a towel, and if the room is cold, dry it with a hairdryer. Dry especially well those places on the dog’s body that are hard to reach. Sprinkle them with powder, which will absorb excess moisture. When you buy a dog, use conditioner for rough coats. To avoid catching a cold, let your pet stay at home for 3 hours after bathing. Shar Pei can be bathed no more often than monthly. If you want more, then buy dry shampoo.

Taking care of your ears

The Shar Pei's ears are small and fit tightly to the head. Because of this, if they are not cleaned weekly, they can become inflamed. Therefore, examine your pet’s ears every week and clean them of wax. When bathing, it is important to cover your ears with cotton balls slightly dipped in sunflower oil.

How to feed your pet?

Up to 1 month The puppy should not be given solid food. No even the best dry food! Take a deep bowl, pour clean water at room temperature into it and change it daily or once every 3 days.

You can feed your dog both natural food and dry food and high-quality canned food. If you prefer natural food, then your body will best digest buckwheat, rice, oatmeal with 10% vegetables (carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, cabbage, cucumbers, etc.) + 50% of the serving volume of raw frozen meat with offal.

It is useful to give your dog boiled sea fish 1-2 times a week. It is a source of protein for the dog. Small ones can be cooked this way, but from large ones, pick out the bones.

When you take the puppy into your home, feed him the same food as the breeder for a week. Then introduce 1 new product weekly and soon the baby will have a varied diet. Shar Pei should absolutely not be fed:

Chocolate;
Garlic;
Avocado;
Sweets;
Smoked meats;
Fatty meat;
Berries and fruits that have seeds;
Nuts;
Give a lot of tomatoes;
Large quantities of canned peas, corn and other vegetables.

If you want to give your dog a treat, buy special cookies that are sold in pet stores. There are great recipes for oatmeal cookies with offal. You will find one of them on the Internet.

Allergy treatment

Symptoms that indicate your dog has an allergy:

Hair falls out in places;
Weeping sores appear in the armpits;
The dog's mouth has an unpleasant odor and itches;

Take your dog to the vet. He will prescribe a course of treatment and treat it immediately. You will need:

Antihistamine medications;
Activated carbon;
"Suprastin" for injection;
Lamb with rice;
Fluorocort ointment with Rescuer cream. One thing is possible;
"Tsamaks" (powder).

Follow the instructions:

Your task is to bring the dog to the clinic. The doctor will examine him and tell him what tests are best to do. There are certain symptoms, in the presence of which the doctor will definitely say that it is an allergy. Often, veterinarians give an injection of the hormonal drug Dexamethasone and send the pet home with the owner. This injection will only mask the disease, refuse it immediately.
Antihistamines "Erius" with "Suprastin" and "Tavegil" will help relieve itching. For 3 days, the puppy is given 0.5 tablets 2 times a day. When you notice that the dog has a swollen face with swollen eyes, this means that an allergic attack has begun and you urgently need to inject your pet with Suprastin.
It is possible to remove allergens from a dog’s body, but it takes a long time. Start treatment. Activated carbon should be given 3 pieces per day. For example, give an antihistamine first. 2 or 3 hours will pass and you can feed activated charcoal to your pet. There is such a difference between taking honey. means in 2 or 3 hours. Stick to it throughout the entire course of treatment.
Now the dog needs to be fed dietary lamb with rice. Do not offer your dog anything other than this food. You can only give vitamins. Distilled or, in extreme cases, boiled water is poured into the bowl. Warn your family that food from the table can seriously harm the dog and it will take longer to treat it.
On the 5th day of your efforts, the dog will receive great relief: it will stop feeling itching, and the spots will gradually disappear. Scratching on the dog's skin should be treated with Celestoderm with Rescuer or Fluorocort cream. If the affected area is large, sprinkle the sore with Tsamaks. Trim the fur along the edges of eczema wounds. Gradually introduce foods into your dog’s diet and see if he develops allergies.