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!

Tips and Suggestions

1. Always be careful not to get water into the ears or your Shar-Pei.  Water in the ears of this breed causes more problems than that of some other breeds.  They have very small ear canals and any moisture in the ears can cause major ear infections.  If concerned, try using a waterless shampoo for the head area and wipe with a damp cloth.
2. Ear drying solution can be purchased if water does get into the ear canal so it may be a good idea to have some on hand when bathing.
3. Using a medicated shampoo is always a good idea with this breed. Make sure you rinse well, leaving no shampoo residue in their coat.
4. Be prepared. Most Shar-pei’s dislike water, even when they have been groomed since their puppy stages