Artifacts found in China suggest that the breed was present even as far as 206 BC, so is easy to say that the Shar Pei is one of the worlds oldest dog breeds. For a long period of time, this breed was kept as a farm dog, used for about any type of work including protection, guarding the home, hunting and herding stock. Later, the breed was used in dog fights, because of its loose skin and prickly coat which made it difficult for the opponent to grab on to.
During the Communist Revolution, the breed population went into a period of decline, but in the 70s a Chinese business man managed to acquire a few dogs and so the breed was saved from becoming extinct.
The Shar Pei is a large dog with a unique appearance. The profile is square and the head is flat, with a wide padded muzzle. Like their relative, the Chow Chow, these dogs have a distinctive characteristic, the blue-black tongue.
The eyes are sunken, small, and almond shape. They usually have a dark coloration, but lighter shades can be encountered in dogs with light colored coating. The dogs ears are small, high set and rounded at the tips.
Another unique characteristic about this breed is the wrinkly skin, pore pronounces as puppies, where an adult should have the wrinkles only in the face, shoulders and the base of the tail.
The coat is divided into three categories: horse-coat, the rare bear-coat and the brush-coat. The coloring is very diverse, including all sables and solid colors.
The coat must be brushed regularly with a fine brush. Some specimens can go through a molting period, when they must be bathed once a week to prevent the dog from looking unkempt.
These dogs are very loyal to their owners. Very intelligent, active, playful and brave, they create a very strong bond with their family. They are sociable with other dogs and small pets as well as with children, if they are introduced to them from a young age. They are calm, devoted companions, as well as remarkable watch dogs.
Having an independent character, the dogs must be taught that all humans are above them in rank, and they should be obedient towards them.
This one of a kind dog can adapt to living in an apartment only if it gets the amount of exercise that it needs, being relatively inactive indoors. Due to the wrinkles on its skin, the breed is sensitive to heat, so if the dog lives in a yard, proper shade must be provided, as well as an abundance of drinking water.
They are very active, so they will need a daily walk, but be careful not to exaggerate with the exercise during warm weather.
These dogs have a life expectancy of around 10 years, so if you provide all the attention, exercise and care that they need, you will surely have a happy life near a loving companion: the Shar Pei.
