Understanding Chinese Shar Pei Health Issues

Chinese Shar Pei health issues can be a concern for any owner. The breed is prone to skin fold dermatitis, a condition that occurs when skin folds trap moisture and bacteria.

Regular grooming is essential to prevent skin fold dermatitis. This includes daily cleaning of the facial folds and regular bathing.

The Chinese Shar Pei is also susceptible to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that can lead to arthritis. This is due to the breed's shallow hip joint.

Responsible breeding practices can help reduce the risk of hip dysplasia in Chinese Shar Pei puppies.

For another approach, see: Dog Health Issues by Breed

Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. Your Chinese Shar-Pei is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth.

Regular dental care is crucial to prevent tartar build-up on the teeth, which can progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth.

If dental disease is left untreated, your buddy may lose her teeth and be in danger of damage to her kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. Your Chinese Shar-Pei's lifespan may even be cut short by one to three years!

We'll clean your dog's teeth regularly and let you know what you can do at home to keep those pearly whites clean.

Genetic Predispositions play a significant role in Chinese Shar Pei health issues.

Chinese Shar Pei's genetic makeup makes them prone to skin fold dermatitis, a condition that affects the skin folds on their face, neck, and body.

They are also at risk of developing autoimmune disorders, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, due to their genetic predisposition.

Skin fold dermatitis is caused by bacteria that thrive in the moist skin folds, leading to infections and inflammation.

The Chinese Shar Pei's skin folds can become infected with bacteria, causing pain, swelling, and discomfort.

Regular cleaning and drying of the skin folds can help prevent skin fold dermatitis.

Genetic testing can help identify potential health issues in Chinese Shar Pei puppies, allowing owners to make informed decisions about their care.

Chinese Shar-Peis are prone to various eye conditions that can cause blindness if left untreated. Glaucoma is a medical emergency that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated.

Glaucoma is an extremely painful disease that affects Chinese Shar-Peis and people too. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, and redness in the whites of the eyes. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick!

Cherry eye is a condition where the gland in the third eyelid is sore or swollen, causing a red blob in the corner of the eye. It can occur very suddenly in one or both eyes and is more common in puppies and young Shar-Peis.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This is an extremely irritating and painful condition that can ultimately lead to blindness. Chinese Shar-Peis are especially at risk for this heritable disorder.

Related reading: Dog Eye Diseases

Here are some key facts about eye conditions in Chinese Shar-Peis:

Annual glaucoma screenings can help diagnose and start treatment as early as possible. If you see symptoms, don't wait to call your veterinarian, go to an emergency clinic!

Shar-Peis are prone to joint issues, particularly patellar luxation, where the kneecap slips out of place. This can cause sudden changes in gait, such as skipping or hopping, and may require arthritis medication or surgery to realign the kneecap.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in a Shar-Pei's elbows or hips may become a problem as they mature.

Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering.

Shar-Peis can be prone to kneecap problems, specifically patellar luxation. This is when the kneecap slips out of place, causing your pet to suddenly pick up a back leg or skip and hop for a few strides.

You might notice your Shar-Pei kicking their leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place. This is a common sign of patellar luxation.

If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, arthritis medication might be enough to manage the issue. However, if symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap.

In some cases, your Shar-Pei might develop an abnormal gait to compensate for a sore leg, which can be a sign of panosteitis, a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia is a serious health issue that affects Shar-Peis.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis.

Stiffness in your Shar-Pei's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures.

You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down.

We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain.

We’ll take X-rays of your dog’s bones to identify issues as early as possible.

Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases.

Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering.

Many Chinese Shar-Pei owners are unaware that their pet is prone to respiratory distress syndrome, also known as brachycephalic syndrome. This condition affects dogs with a short nose, like your Chinese Shar-Pei.

Short-nosed dogs have the same amount of tissue in their noses and throats as longer-nosed dogs, but with less area to contain it. This can lead to a narrow and obstructed airway, making it difficult for them to breathe.

Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult with your veterinarian right away.

In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to alleviate airway obstruction.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome is a serious condition that affects dogs with short noses, like your Chinese Shar-Pei. These dogs have the same amount of tissue in their noses and throats as longer-nosed dogs, but with less area to contain it.

The soft palate at the back of the roof of the mouth is often too long and may hang down into the airway, causing obstruction. This can lead to a narrow and obstructed airway, making it difficult for your dog to breathe.

Exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, and fainting are all signs that your dog may be experiencing respiratory distress. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek veterinary attention.

Dogs with short noses are also more likely to develop other problems, such as flatulence from excessive air intake, pneumonia from aspirating food, and heat stroke. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to alleviate airway obstruction.

Bloat is a serious condition that can be fatal if left untreated. Your Shar-Pei is more at risk than other breeds due to their deep, narrow chests.

Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, occurs when the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. This twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes the spleen.

Your dog may retch or heave, but little or nothing comes up. They may also act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up).

Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour or 30 minutes. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately.

Preventive surgery is an option to tack down or suture the stomach in place so it's unlikely to twist.

As a Shar-Pei owner, you're likely aware that this breed is prone to skin issues. Demodex is a microscopic mite that lives in the hair follicles of all dogs, but some breeds, like your Shar-Pei, may develop an overabundance of these mites.

Mild cases of Demodex can cause dry, irritated, hairless lesions on the face or feet, which may or may not be itchy. Secondary skin infections may occur if left untreated.

Prompt veterinary care is essential to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Many pets seem to outgrow the problem, while others require lifelong management.

Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Chinese Shar-Peis than other breeds.

The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful.

All suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal, so early detection is critical.

Amyloidosis is a disorder in which protein characteristics change, causing them to deposit in unwanted places, and unfortunately, it occurs more often in Chinese Shar-Peis than other breeds.

This condition can cause a range of problems in pets, including kidney, liver, adrenal gland, and pancreatic disease.

Amyloid deposits in the skin can cause high fever and swollen joints in some breeds.

Symptoms of amyloidosis may include poor appetite, increased urination and thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

These symptoms usually start in young adulthood.

While there is no cure, symptomatic treatment of fever, pain, and nausea can improve an affected pet's quality of life.

In humans, amyloid deposits in the brain cause Alzheimer's disease, which is a serious and debilitating condition.

Amyloidosis is a serious condition that requires veterinary attention, and early detection and treatment can make a big difference in a pet's quality of life.

Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Chinese Shar-Peis than other breeds.

The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Early detection is critical, as many cancers are cured by surgical removal.

Mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. This can make them tricky to diagnose.

All suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal, so don't delay.

Surgical removal is often the best course of action for mast cell tumors. The sooner they're removed, the better the chances of a successful outcome.

Taking care of your Chinese Shar-Pei at home requires common sense and attention to detail. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, and regularly brush her teeth and coat.

To keep your Shar-Pei out of trouble, supervise her as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself. This will prevent her from getting into objects she shouldn't put in her mouth.

Brushing her coat as needed, at least weekly, is crucial to prevent matting and tangling. Chinese Shar-Peis generally have good teeth, but brushing them at least twice a week will keep them perfect.

Here is a summary of essential routine care tasks:

Keep in mind that Chinese Shar-Peis may not get along with other dogs, especially if they were bred for fighting. Be alert to signs of heat stress, especially in warm weather, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

Spaying or neutering your Shar-Pei is one of the best things you can do for her health and well-being.

Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers, such as those that affect the ovaries and uterus in females, and the testicles in males.

Performing this surgery also gives your veterinarian a chance to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop, like hip problems or the need for a puppy tooth extraction.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

Having your Shar-Pei spayed or neutered is a good opportunity to address other health issues, making it more convenient for you and easier on your dog.

Home Care is a crucial aspect of caring for your Chinese Shar-Pei. It's essential to supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed, picking up after yourself, and blocking off rooms as necessary.

To keep your Shar-Pei out of trouble and away from objects she shouldn't put in her mouth, it's vital to block off rooms as needed. This will also help prevent her from getting into mischief.

Brushing your Shar-Pei's coat as needed, at least weekly, is a must. Chinese Shar-Peis generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week!

Cleaning your Shar-Pei's ears weekly, even as a puppy, is crucial to prevent infections. Don't worry, you'll learn how to do it with ease.

Her deep wrinkles need to be cleaned and dried often to prevent infections. This is a vital part of her home care routine.

It's essential to be aware that Chinese Shar-Peis were bred for fighting and may not get along with other dogs. This is something to consider when introducing her to new canine friends.

To keep your Shar-Pei safe and healthy, avoid any prolonged sun exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. This is especially important in warm weather.

Here's a quick rundown of the essential home care tasks for your Chinese Shar-Pei:

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for maintaining your Chinese Shar-Pei's health. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that your veterinarian recommends.

If you notice any unusual symptoms or changes in your dog's behavior, don't hesitate to reach out to your vet. They can help you identify potential issues and provide guidance on the best course of action.

Your Chinese Shar-Pei is prone to skin infections, particularly lip-fold pyoderma, which can cause a reddened, smelly area along the lower jaw. This can be treated with antibiotics, and in severe cases, excess skin folds may need to be surgically removed.

Seborrhea, a common skin disease, can cause dry, flaky skin or greasy, oily skin, leading to itchiness and discomfort. Hypothyroidism, allergies, Cushing's disease, and other problems can contribute to seborrhea.

Pet health insurance can help cover the costs of medical tests and procedures your dog may need throughout its life. Regular brushing of your dog's teeth and coat can also help prevent health issues.

Some common health issues affecting Chinese Shar-Peis include cutaneous mucinosis, demodicosis, ectropion, and entropion. Regular check-ups can help identify these issues early on, making treatment more effective.

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If you notice any of the following signs in your Chinese Shar Pei, seek medical care immediately.

Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge can be a sign of an ear infection or other issue.

Inability or straining to urinate, or discolored urine, is a serious sign that requires prompt attention.

Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes can be a sign of a eye infection or other issue.

Dry heaving or a large, tight, painful abdomen can be a sign of gastrointestinal distress.

General reluctance to run or play can be a sign of underlying health issues.

Tubular vomit, undigested food in vomit, or dry, scaly, sometimes itchy hairless patches on face or paws are all signs that need medical attention.

Loud breathing, tires easily during exercise, leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, run, or jump, or "bunny hopping" are all signs that require medical care.

Here are some signs that require immediate medical attention:

Shar-Peis are prone to skin allergies, also known as atopy, which makes their skin itchy.

Common areas affected by allergies in Shar-Peis include the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears.

Symptoms of allergies in Shar-Peis typically start between the ages of one and three and can worsen every year.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are common signs of allergies in Shar-Peis.

Many treatment options are available to manage these conditions.

The good news is that with proper treatment, Shar-Peis can live comfortable lives despite their allergies.

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The Chinese Shar Pei's body type is quite distinctive, with loose skin folds covering its body, especially its head, giving it a permanent frown.

The high-set, thick tail is a characteristic feature, often curling over the back or to either side of the back, and it's not altered in any way.

These physical characteristics can sometimes make the Shar Pei more prone to skin issues, which is a common health concern for this breed.

As you consider bringing a Chinese Shar-Pei into your life, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can arise. Obesity is a significant health problem in this breed, which can cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

You may be tempted to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, but it's crucial to resist the urge to overfeed. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk.

Chinese Shar-Peis are prone to obesity, so it's vital to monitor their food intake and ensure they get regular exercise. A healthy weight will not only improve their physical health but also their mental well-being.

Here are some signs that your Chinese Shar-Pei may be experiencing a health issue:

Keep an eye out for these signs and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms. Early detection and treatment can make a significant difference in your Chinese Shar-Pei's quality of life.

The body type of this animal is quite distinctive. It's known for the folds of loose skin covering its body, especially its head, which gives it a permanent frown.

This body type is characterized by a high-set, thick tail that curls over the back, or to either side of the back, and is not altered. The tail's positioning is a notable feature of this animal's body type.

The ears of this animal are small and folded, and are never altered. This is an important consideration when thinking about this body type.