Sharpei Temperament

Chinese Shar-Pei are very protective of their home and family and are very possessive and territorial.  Since they were bred as guard dogs in ancient history, these traits have carried on throughout the years, making them excellent protection, especially around strangers.  While it is pleasing to have a guard dog to protect the home, it can also be dangerous if overprotective.  Here are some suggestions to keep your Chinese Shar-Pei from becoming too protective: Read more

Sharpei Bathing Supplies

Treats – Shar-Pei are known for their extreme dislike of water.  However, it is possible for the entire bathing routine to be trained.  Before filling the bathing area with water, reward your dog for getting into the bathing area and standing quietly with a treat.  When the water is on, familiarize them with the sound of the water as well as the blow dryer before getting them completely wet.  Reward them with treats for having good behavior during their bath time.
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Sharpei Exercise

The exercise requirements of the Shar-Pei are moderate and if provided with a large yard they will usually get enough exercise on the own.  However, a daily walk is pertinent both for their enjoyment as well as keeping them in shape physically.  Walking also stimulates their sense of sight and sense of smell, increasing their mental stimulants.  It is important to remember that Shar-Pei are especially sensitive to heat so walks and daily exercise should be done during the cooler times of the day.  Shade and fresh water should be available at all times during exercise as to not overheat your companion.

Grooming Your Shar-Pei

• The ears of the Chinese Shar-Pei need special cleaning attention before bathing.  Some Shar-Pei tend to collect more dirt and wax in their ears than others which needs to be removed.
• Use a rubber brush in the bath to loosen and remove shedding hair.
• A light hand massage is a good way to remove any additional shedding hair.
• Be especially careful to dry the folds of the skin on the Chinese Shar-Pei.  Use your hands to open the folded skin and dry with moderate heat.
• Once the dog is dry, try using a light coat of grooming powder or baby powder.  This can keep the folds dry from damp skin irritation.  Be sure to use only a light coat!
• After bathing and drying, try using a light gloss spray for a shiny coat!

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Basics of Dog Training – Shar Pei Discipline

“What is this on the floor!?” you yell while pointing to a mess of garbage your dog got into while you were away.  While your dog stands there with a guilty look on his face you may believe the dog knew what he did wrong…

Often times, dogs do not understand why they are receiving punishment or what they did  to receive the punishment.  It’s important to realize this when learning discipline techniques and training your dog. Read more

The Truth Behind Do-It-Yourself Dog Washing Facilities

Bathing your dog is a necessity but doing it at a do-it-yourself dog washing facility may be questionable.  Though they are thought to be a great convenience for pet owners, there have been many cases in which folliculitis or furunculosis has been present in dogs after bathing or grooming.  This skin infection is mainly seen along the neck and back and is due to trauma caused by contaminated shampoo and high-pressure spray heads.  This infection causes very painful skin irritation, sores, fever, behavior changes, and in some cases could be life threatening!   Many do-it-yourself dog washing facilities use bulk shampoo containers which can easily become contaminated from the excessive use from the same container. Read more

General Guidelines on Feeding Shar-Pei

1. Shar-Pei should be fed at least twice a day.  This decreases begging and bloat.
2. Obesity is a very common problem among dogs and it’s essential to balance the dog’s activity level and food intake.  An inactive dog requires less food to maintain body weight where as an active dog requires more.  Dogs use protein for energy so a high protein diet for an active dog is essential.  However, a high protein diet for an inactive dog will make them gain weight.  Feed your dog according to it’s activity level.

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Choosing a Veterinarian

When searching for a great veterinarian, look for more than just someone with medical expertise.  Look for someone willing to be your pet’s second best friend, a doctor good with animals as well as people, and someone you feel you could establish a lifetime relationship with.  The absolute worst time to seek a vet is when you are in desperate need for one.  So plan ahead and choose wisely. Know beforehand who your veterinarian is going to be so that when an emergency arises you are completely prepared.

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Training Your Sharpei

Have you ever visited a friend or family member and upon walking in you are attacked by sloppy wet kisses, non-stop jumping?  You sometimes feel like you have to hurdle over their dog just to make it through to greet the person you are visiting!

Training your dog is an important way to create a well-behaved, safe, and valued member of the family.  A good training class is a fun, social activity that not only introduces your pet to being around other animals, but also prevents or modifies behaviors that were once allowed to become problems.

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