The Chinese Shar Pei

Mar 14th, 2010 by Samurai Jack

It’s a bath towel… it’s a floor mat…it’s a dog! No way? Yes way! Take a closer look. Ladies and gentlemen, may I introduce to you the magnificent and unique Shar Pei, a breed that hails all the way from China and is famous for its Michelin Man wrinkles and bluish black tongue.

The name Shar Pei can be directly translated as ‘Sand Skin’ and came about due to the rough texture of its coat. Origin of the Shar Pei goes back centuries ago when they were bred by peasants in Southern China to assist with daily chores such as herding cattle, hunting pigs and guarding the home.

The Shar Pei was also once known as ‘The Chinese Fighting Dog’ and used in dog fights for the entertainment of the Upper Class during the Han Dynasty. Because of its excessive and loose skin that served as a protective layer, the Shar Pei was less likely to be seriously injured during the fights. When the Communist Party ruled in China in the 40’s, they destroyed and banned breeding of all dogs and the Shar Pei became almost extinct. Luckily a few remaining Shar Pei somehow managed to end up in the West, and the breed has gained favour and popularity ever since.

Who is the Chinese and who is the Mongolian?

Despite the uncanny physical resemblance of a Bull Dog and Shar Pei, they are actually not related at all. In fact, the Shar Pei’s closest relative is a Mongolian breed known as the Chow Chow. This is attributed to the bluish black coloured tongue that they both share.

* Tip for Chow Chow or Shar Pei owners: Check your pet’s tongue. If it’s pink, it’s not a pure breed!

Chow Chow

It comes as no surprise that with the unique and one-of-a-kind look, any dog lover could easily fall in love with the idea of owning a Shar Pei. But before rushing off to buy one, there are certain areas of susceptibility a responsible owner should be aware of. Because of the Shar Pei’s wrinkly skin, they are prone to health problems such as malformations of the eyelids, ear infections, overshot jaw and also skin irritations. Bringing home a cute puppy is a delightful experience, but it is always important as an owner, to be prepared for issues that might develop as the puppy grows older. Other than that, make sure that your Shar Pei comes from a reputable breeder as over-breeding in the 90’s have led to numerous cases of skin conditions.

Just too adorable to resist!

On the brighter side, the Shar Pei is an excellent family pet and loves socialising among humans. Unlike the Poodle or the Shih Tzu, the Shar Pei does not require monthly visits to the grooming salon. They are also known to be able to keep themselves clean. However, good luck trying to give them a bath as they absolutely hate water. Because it is an active dog, the Shar Pei will enjoy regular walks and being in the outdoors.

Could this be a potential chick magnet? Before, we had the 5 C’s:

1) Cash
2) Car
3) Credit Card
4) Condo
5) Country Club Membership

Now, do we have a 6th?

6) Chinese Shar Pei

Cute puppies here

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