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Chinese Shar Pei - click to enlarge
Chinese Shar Pei - click to enlarge

Chinese Shar Pei Gifts

The Chinese Shar Pei is at the same time, one of the oldest and newest breeds in the world. The image of a distinctly wrinkled dog can be found on pottery that dates to the third century B.C. and yet it was not recognized for show by the AKC, until 1991. Employed over the centuries as both guard and working farm dogs, the Shar Pei’s defining appearance was encouraged even more when the sport of dog fighting became popular because the loose skin allowed them to turn and bite back when grabbed. They were often referred to as Golden Lions... (continued below)


You are here: Home  ♥ Shop by Dog Breed  ♥ Chinese Shar Pei
(continued) ...for those with that coat color, out of the Asian reverence for lions’ courage and strength. The breed declined dramatically in the 20th century, and only a 1973 appeal to American breeders, allowed the Shar Pei to keep from vanishing entirely. At that time they were known as the rarest dog in the world, because of their small numbers. It is thought they may share some common ancestor with the chow, but the only “evidence” to date, is a peculiar shared trait, and that is a blue tongue. A Chinese Shar Pei dog averages 18-20 inches at the withers, and weighs 40-50 lbs. While the breed is defined by their wrinkled skin, there are two variations within the breed, one being a large headed dog with many wrinkles, and the other a dog with a smaller head and tighter skin. The more wrinkled dogs have a tendency to smooth out some as they grow into their bodies. Solid colors and sable are acceptable colors, with minimal shading down the back and on the ears that is a darker hue of the body color. Shar Peis are an affectionate and loyal companion, but they are not above pushing the limits of acceptable behavior. Owners must take command and exercise complete and consistent control over them, which should be shared amongst the family. An intelligent dog, they will quickly sense who is not strong enough to deal with their foibles and will try to assume dominance. It is necessary to socialize them early with the family pets, and to assess their behavior later if you intend to add another animal to the family, as some have a tendency to aggression with strange animals. © DogDecor.com
  
 
     
 


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