Dog Sar Pei, also known as the Chinese Shar Pei, is a breed that originates from southern China. The name Shar Pei comes from the Mandarin word ‘shā pí’, which means ‘sand skin’.

It’s no coincidence that the breed sports a short, bristly coat that feels rough to the touch and is most notable for its signature wrinkles.

The Appearance of Dog Sar Pei

A mature Shar Pei can weigh up to 60 pounds and stand up to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. According to the AKC’s breed standard, the dog’s head should be large and slightly ‘foreshortened’ to create a flat plane.

They have small, sunken brown eyes, and ears that are triangular and close to the head. The tail is thick at the base and tapers to a fine point.

The Personality of Dog Sar Pei

A Sar Pei may look like a tough, intimidating dog, but they have incredibly sweet and loyal personalities. They’re very affectionate towards their owners and are incredibly protective when it comes to their human family.

They’re often wary of strangers and will not hesitate to sound the alarm when they sense something is wrong.

Training Your Dog Sar Pei

The Shar Pei is a highly intelligent breed, but they can also be quite stubborn. Here are some tips for training your Dog Sar Pei:.

Start training early on in your dog’s life and be consistent with your commands
Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and verbal praise
Be firm, but not harsh. Harsh training techniques can lead to aggression in Shar Peis
Enroll your dog in obedience classes or work with a professional trainer to reinforce good behaviors and socialize your dog with other dogs and people

Caring for Your Dog Sar Pei

The Shar Pei is a pretty low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, but they do require a few special considerations:.

Wrinkle care: The Shar Pei’s trademark wrinkles can actually be a breeding ground for bacteria or yeast. Regularly cleaning and drying them can help prevent infections
Bathing: Shar Peis don’t need to be bathed frequently. In fact, too much bathing can strip away their skin’s natural oils and cause dryness or irritation. A bath once every couple of months should suffice unless your dog gets unusually dirty or smelly.
Nail trimming: Shar Peis should have their nails trimmed once every month or so to prevent them from becoming overgrown and causing discomfort
Exercise: Despite their reputation as being lazy dogs, Shar Peis actually require moderate exercise to stay healthy. Aim for at least two 30-minute walks per day or playtime in a fenced-in backyard.

Health Concerns for Dog Sar Pei

Like all breeds, a Shar Pei is susceptible to certain health issues. Here are a few common ones to be aware of:.

Entropion: This is a genetic condition in which the eyelid rolls inward towards the eye, causing irritation and discomfort. Surgery may be required to correct the condition.
Patellar Luxation: This is a condition in which the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. It’s more common in small and toy breeds but can affect larger breeds like Shar Peis as well.
Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop correctly. Dogs with hip dysplasia may suffer from arthritis or lameness later in life.
Familial Shar Pei Fever: This is a genetic condition that causes recurring fevers and inflammation in Shar Peis. Symptoms usually appear by the time a dog is six months old.

Is a Sar Pei Right for You?

Shar Peis make wonderful family pets and are incredibly loyal and loving. However, they do require a significant investment of time and effort to train and care for properly.

If you’re considering adding a Shar Pei to your family, make sure you’re prepared for the responsibility that comes with owning a larger dog.

Conclusion

The Dog Sar Pei, also referred to as the Chinese Shar Pei, is a fascinating breed that has a lot to offer in terms of loyalty, affection, and protection. This dog is both intelligent, stubborn, and is highly trainable with the right approach.

It’s essential to take special care of this breed’s unique features, including their wrinkles, nails, and exercise requirements.