Blue Shar Pei Dog: Complete Care and Ownership Guide

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Posted Nov 5, 2024

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Shar Pei Dog Lying Down
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The Blue Shar Pei dog is a unique and lovable breed. They have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming.

Their calm and gentle nature makes them an excellent choice for families with children. With proper care and attention, a Blue Shar Pei can live up to 12 years or more.

Regular exercise is essential for this breed, as they can easily become overweight if not kept active. A daily walk of at least 30 minutes is recommended to keep them happy and healthy.

Blue Shar Peis are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training. Consistency and patience are key to developing good behavior in this breed.

If this caught your attention, see: Blue Pointer Dog Breed

Puppies

Getting a Blue Shar Pei puppy is a dream come true, but it's essential to select a reputable breeder with a history of healthy litters and sound temperaments.

Their unique looks will undoubtedly get you plenty of compliments, with their soft, fluffy fur and movable wrinkles when they're small. You'll also appreciate their intelligence, which makes potty training and basic commands a breeze.

Credit: youtube.com, Chinese SHAR-PEI Pros And Cons | Should You REALLY Get A CHINESE SHAR-PEI?

To bring your little bundle home, you'll need to create a comfortable space with toys and a cozy bed, just like a newfiedoodle would need its own corner.

Blue Shar Pei puppies have specific dietary needs, especially as they grow, so consult with a veterinarian to ensure they get the right nutrition.

Here are some key considerations for a happy and healthy Blue Shar Pei puppy:

  • A Comfortable Space: Ensure they have a space of their own with toys and a comfy bed.
  • Diet and Nutrition: Consult with a veterinarian for the right nutrition.
  • Training and Socialization: Provide consistent guidance.

Temperament & Intelligence

The Blue Shar Pei is an incredibly intelligent dog breed. They're naturally vigilant and quick to alert their family to potential threats.

Their intelligence also makes them relatively easy to train, but they can be stubborn at times. This means that patience and consistency are key when teaching them new behaviors.

As guard dogs, Blue Shar Peis have a strong instinct to protect their family and territory. They may be reserved or reactive around new people or animals, so early socialization is crucial.

Credit: youtube.com, Shar Pei | Description, Temperament, & Facts

To help your Blue Shar Pei feel comfortable around new faces, make sure to expose them to various situations and environments from an early age.

Here are some key traits to keep in mind when interacting with your Blue Shar Pei:

Overall, the Blue Shar Pei is a loyal and loving companion, but they do require consistent training and socialization to thrive.

Care and Training

Caring for a blue Shar-Pei is relatively straightforward. They don't require a lot of exercise, and they're not known for being loud.

They're a naturally clean breed and often have an aversion to water, so you won't find them splashing around in muddy puddles. Their independent nature means they can be stubborn and willful at times.

To guarantee success with training, patience and commitment are essential. They need early socialization and training to help them feel more comfortable around other dogs and strangers.

Using positive reinforcement methods is key, as they can be wary of roughhousing. Forcing them to comply is unlikely to end well, so it's best to stick with gentle and encouraging training techniques.

Care

Cute Shar Pei Dog Running on Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Cute Shar Pei Dog Running on Grass

Caring for a shar-pei is relatively simple, as they don't require a lot of exercise.

They are not known for being vocal, so you won't need to worry about excessive barking.

Shar-peis are naturally clean dogs, but they often have an aversion to water, so you won't catch them splashing around in muddy puddles.

Their independent nature means they can be stubborn and willful, requiring patience and commitment from their owners to train successfully.

Training a shar-pei must start early, with a focus on socialization and positive reinforcement methods.

Food Requirements

Shar Peis can be sensitive to certain foods that irritate their skin. They may develop skin issues, especially in skin folds, due to food allergies.

Avoid meals with lots of preservatives, artificial ingredients, and chemical compounds. These can exacerbate allergies and skin problems.

Buy high-quality dog food that's rich in protein to nourish your pup's growing body. This is especially important during their life stages.

As puppies, Shar Peis need puppy chow with DHA and glucosamine or chondroitin to support muscle and bone growth.

You can switch to an adult formula once they enter their adult years. This will help them manage their weight and energy levels.

Exercise

Credit: youtube.com, Online Training Course To Learn How To Exercise and Care Your Dog For Dog Owners

Shar Peis require moderate to high amounts of exercise, making them a great fit for active families or individuals.

You can take them on brisk daily walks, which should total about an hour a day.

They also love to play games in the yard, so be sure to set aside time for play.

Most adult Shar Peis require no more than 60 minutes of solid exercise per day, making them a great choice for busy owners.

Health and Wellbeing

As a responsible Blue Shar Pei owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your furry friend. Skin fold disease and pododermatitis are two conditions to watch out for, especially in the first year of ownership.

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your Blue Shar Pei's health. In the first year, they'll need parasite prevention, deworming, spaying or neutering surgery, and microchipping.

The breed's excess skin folds can lead to skin problems like pyoderma, a bacterial skin infection. Regular cleaning and drying between the wrinkles can help prevent infections.

Credit: youtube.com, CHINESE SHAR PEI 101! Everything You Need To Know About Owning a Chinese Shar Pei Puppy

Eye problems are also common in Blue Shar Peis, including entropion, where the eyelid rolls inward, and glaucoma. Vigilance is key, and surgical correction might be necessary in some cases.

A balanced diet is vital for your Blue Shar Pei's overall health. Consult with a veterinarian to ensure you're providing the right nutrition, especially as they grow.

Here are some common health issues to be aware of in Blue Shar Peis:

A comfortable space, proper diet, and training are essential for your Blue Shar Pei's overall well-being. Consult with a veterinarian to ensure you're providing the best possible care for your furry friend.

Grooming Basics

A Shar Pei's grooming needs are a top priority, and it's essential to establish a regular routine to keep them healthy and clean. They require routine baths every 4 to 6 weeks, and frequent cleaning of their wrinkles is a must.

Their coats don't need much brushing, but be prepared for year-round shedding. You'll need to clean up puppy fur on your furniture regularly.

Credit: youtube.com, Shar-Pei Grooming 101: Toenails

Cleaning their wrinkles is crucial to prevent bacteria and infection buildup. This involves wiping them out with a damp cloth and drying thoroughly.

Shar Peis have small, tight ears that can be prone to chronic ear problems. Regular ear cleaning is necessary to prevent recurrent yeast or bacterial infections.

Bathtime is also an opportunity to trim their nails and brush their teeth for overall good health and fresh breath.

Family and Socialization

A blue Shar Pei can be a loving addition to your family, but it's essential to remember that they have a strong pack mentality. They will always think of their family members as part of their pack and exhibit no aggression towards them.

However, it's crucial to train your Shar Pei to distinguish between play and potential threats, as they can be highly protective of their loved ones. With proper training and socialization, you can have a well-rounded dog that listens to commands and gets along with company.

To ensure a smooth transition, it's vital to expose your Shar Pei to various animals and situations to desensitize their desire to protect. This can be achieved by taking them on walks and introducing them to other pets in a neutral space.

Good Family Dogs?

Credit: youtube.com, TOP 10 DOGS FOR FAMILIES - Best Puppy Breed For Children

A Shar Pei can be a great addition to a family if properly trained and socialized. They integrate into a pack mentality easily and will think of family members as part of their pack.

They can be highly protective of those they love, which might lead to aggression towards strangers. This must be addressed early on to prevent any issues.

A Shar Pei can learn to distinguish between play and threats with proper training. They can then remain calm around visitors and listen to commands.

However, it's unlikely that a Shar Pei can behave around strangers without training and socialization. Some landlords may not allow Shar Peis, so it's essential to check your property's policies before adopting a dog.

Getting Along with Other Pets

Shar Peis can be aggressive or territorial with other dogs, especially those of the same sex. This is due to power dynamics involved.

It's essential to introduce your Shar Pei to other pets in a neutral space to avoid territorial disputes. This can be an unfamiliar park or a friend's yard.

Credit: youtube.com, 8 Tips on How to Make Two Dogs Become Friends

Monitor your Shar Pei's body language during interactions with other pets. Relaxed tails, playful barks, and a curious approach are promising signs. Conversely, if you see your dog shaking legs excessively or showing teeth, it's a sign to intervene.

Initial interactions should be short and always supervised. Gradually increase the time they spend together as they get more comfortable.

Here are some tips for integrating your Shar Pei with other pets:

Shar Peis may not make the best roommates with cats and other smaller pets. They may view them as prey rather than friends. However, with proper training and socialization, your Shar Pei can learn to coexist with other pets.

Owning and Caring

Owning and Caring for a Blue Shar Pei requires patience and commitment due to its stubborn and willful nature.

The breed is not known for being vocal, so you can expect a relatively quiet companion.

A Blue Shar Pei is a naturally clean dog and it often has an aversion to water, so you're unlikely to find your pup enjoying a romp in muddy puddles.

You'll need to provide regular care and attention to keep your Blue Shar Pei happy and healthy.

Exercise requirements for a Blue Shar Pei are relatively low compared to other breeds of its size, making it a great choice for owners with limited space or energy.

Adopting or Buying a Dog

Credit: youtube.com, Meet Louise Redknapp's ADORABLE Shar Pei Dog Blu | Celebrity Snoop Dogs

If you're considering bringing a Blue Shar Pei into your life, you're likely aware that this breed comes with its own set of unique challenges.

Research is key when it comes to finding a reputable breeder, especially for a breed like the Blue Shar Pei that's prone to health issues. Expect to pay between $1,000 to $2,500 for a champion bloodline puppy.

A good breeder will keep both mother and pups in a nurturing home environment, conduct health checks, and not separate pups from their mother before eight weeks old.

You can start your search by checking the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America or North American Shar-Pei Rescue for breed-specific resources.

If you're not set on buying from a breeder, consider visiting your local animal shelter, where you might find a Blue Shar Pei in need of a forever home.

Before making a decision, be sure to ask plenty of questions about the dog's history, dietary needs, and potential health issues.

Here are some useful resources to get you started:

  • Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America
  • North American Shar-Pei Rescue

Fun and Activities

Credit: youtube.com, Funny Shar Pei Funny moments

Blue Shar Peis are up for fun, and they'll love engaging activities that stimulate their intelligent minds. Puzzle toys are a great way to keep them entertained, as they can be just as intriguing as a miniature collie herding a flock.

Nature walks are also a great way to spend time with your Blue Shar Pei, as they appreciate a good sniff around the park. These excursions can be as enriching for them as they are for you.

To make playtime even more exciting, consider using the Fi Dog Collar's tracking feature to set boundaries and create a treasure hunt for your Shar Pei. This can be as engaging as a miniature collie figuring out a maze.

Here are some fun activities you can try with your Blue Shar Pei:

  • Puzzle toys
  • Nature walks
  • Hide and treat
  • Interactive exploration
  • Nature walks & safety
  • Activity goals with Fi

Fun Activities with You

Engaging your Blue Shar Pei's intelligent mind is crucial for their happiness and well-being. Puzzle toys are a great way to do this, as they stimulate their brain and can be just as intriguing for them as a miniature collie herding a flock.

Shar Pei Dog Lying Down
Credit: pexels.com, Shar Pei Dog Lying Down

Nature walks are another great activity for Blue Shar Peis. They may not be as high-energy as some breeds, but they still appreciate a good sniff around the park.

Hide and treat games are a delightful way to keep your Blue Shar Pei entertained for hours. Simply hide treats around your home or garden and watch them sniff around.

Here are some fun activities you can do with your Blue Shar Pei:

  1. Puzzle toys: These stimulate their brain and can be just as intriguing as a miniature collie herding a flock.
  2. Nature walks: These excursions can be just as enriching for them as they are for you.
  3. Hide and treat: This game can keep them entertained for hours.

Fun Activities with Friends

Planning fun activities with friends can be a challenge, especially if you have pets that require attention. Consider using the Fi Dog Collar to create a treasure hunt for your dog, similar to a miniature collie figuring out a maze.

This activity can be a great way to get your dog's mind and body engaged at the same time. The Fi Dog Collar's tracking feature allows you to set boundaries and create a fun and interactive experience for your pet.

Shar Pei Dog in Forest
Credit: pexels.com, Shar Pei Dog in Forest

If you're planning a nature walk, the Fi Dog Collar gives you peace of mind by continuously tracking your pet's location. This way, you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about your dog's safety.

Here are some fun activities you can do with your friends and pets:

Frequently Asked Questions

Are blue Shar Pei rare?

Yes, blue Shar Pei are a rare color variation, requiring careful breeding and planning to obtain. Their uniqueness makes them a special addition to any family.

How much does a Shar Pei dog cost?

The cost of a Chinese Shar-Pei dog can range from around $800 to over $2,000, depending on the puppy's quality and traits. If you're looking for a purebred Shar-Pei, be prepared for a significant investment.

What is the life span of a blue Shar Pei?

The average lifespan of a Shar-Pei is 8-12 years, regardless of coat color. However, life expectancy can vary based on individual factors and genetics.

How smart is a Chinese Shar-Pei?

Chinese Shar-Peis are highly intelligent dogs that require minimal training, making them a great choice for owners who want a smart and loyal companion.

Bertha Hauck

Senior Writer

Bertha Hauck is a writer with a passion for sharing knowledge about canine companions. With a focus on Dutch Shepherds and other breeds originating in the Netherlands, Bertha's articles provide in-depth information for dog enthusiasts. Her expertise in herding dogs and FCI breeds has earned her a reputation as a trusted authority in the field.