The Shar Pei is a unique and loving breed that makes a great companion for many families. The Shar Pei is a relatively small dog, typically weighing between 25-40 pounds and standing between 16-19 inches tall at the shoulder.
One thing to consider is the Shar Pei's wrinkled skin, which requires regular cleaning to prevent skin infections. This breed is also known for its short, easy-to-maintain coat.
Shar Peis are a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to exercise needs, requiring only short daily walks. However, they do need regular grooming to prevent skin problems and keep their wrinkles clean.
With proper care and attention, a Shar Pei can live a long and healthy life, typically ranging from 10-15 years.
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Physical Characteristics
The shar pei is a medium-sized breed of dog, typically standing between 44 and 51 centimetres (17 and 20 in) tall.
Their weight can vary between 16 and 20 kilograms (35 and 44 lb), which is relatively consistent across the breed.
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The shar pei has a short, very harsh coat that can be any solid colour except white, with black, red, fawn, and cream being the most common colours.
Their head is relatively large compared to their body, with a broad muzzle that is usually darker than the rest of the coat.
The breed's ears are small and triangular, set wide apart, and the eyes are set very deeply into the folds of skin on the head.
Shar peis have straight, well-boned, muscular legs below sloping shoulders and a medium-length broad tail that is curled over their back in a manner typical of spitz-type dogs.
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Care and Upkeep
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a unique breed that requires some special care. Its coat is generally easy to care for, requiring only weekly brushing.
It's essential to keep an eye on your Shar-Pei's folds and wrinkles, inspecting them daily to prevent irritation or skin-fold pyoderma. This can be done by gently cleaning and drying them regularly.
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Your Shar-Pei needs a moderate walk or game session every day to stay happy and healthy. However, it's crucial to keep it from overheating, so make sure it's not too hot outside.
Since Shar-Peis are not very adept at coming when called, it's best to let them off-leash only in fenced areas. They may also be aggressive towards strange animals, so dog parks might not be the best idea.
A Shar-Pei's coat can come in three types: "horse" (rough), "brush" (smooth and long), or "bear" (bushy and puffy). All types require regular care to prevent irritation and skin problems.
Here's a quick rundown of your Shar-Pei's grooming needs:
- Brush their coat at least weekly.
- Clean their ears weekly.
- Brush their teeth at least twice a week.
- Clean and dry their deep wrinkles often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chinese Shar-Pei rare?
No, the Chinese Shar-Pei is no longer considered a rare breed, having gained popularity since the late 20th century. Its numbers have grown significantly, making it a more common sight today.
What is the ideal weight for a Shar Pei?
The ideal weight for a Shar Pei is between 50-60 pounds. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help maintain a healthy weight for your Shar Pei.
Is a Shar Pei considered a large breed?
No, the Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium-sized breed, not large. Its compact size is one of the breed's distinctive characteristics.
Sources
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