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:

1. It’s a good idea when having company over to the house to have the dog in a crate.  This avoids any confrontations with strangers entering into his domain.  Have your guests ignore the dog for the first five or ten minutes until the dog gets comfortable with having strangers in his domain.  Having your guests offer the dog treats under your supervision and control is also a good idea to introduce the idea of having guests in your home.
2. Often times, Shar Pei will stand guard at the door to protect their domain, family, and home.  Try using baby gates to restrict them from blocking entryways.
3. Since most Shar-Pei dislike water, keep a spray bottle containing water on hand.  This may be useful in some situations.
4. Have your guests call before coming over.  This allows you a chance to prepare for the interaction of guests and your dog ahead of time.
5. Keep a supply of treats on hand to reward good behavior.
6. Don’t let your dog be a nuisance to your house guests and use common sense.  Not all people like dogs or know how to act around dogs, especially children.  Be careful and aware of all situations when children are visiting.

Breed-Specific Behaviors:

Shar-Pei display the some of the following behaviors which seem to be characteristic of their specific breed:

1. Sharking is described as a circling and staring motion, characteristic of fighting dogs used to intimidate their opponents.  Shar-Pei were raised as fighting dogs in ancient history and they usually present this behavior when nervous or unsure of something around them.
2. When confined in a small space such as a crate or a cage, Shar-Pei tend to try to bury their food and/or water.
3. This particular breed does not like to go outside in the rain.  Shar-Pei are known to dislike water and will sometimes refuse to go outside if raining
4. Because they have poor peripheral vision from the excessive skin folds around the eyes, Shar-Peis tend to dislike being pet on top of the head.

Shar-Pei and Other Dogs:

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a very intelligent and highly responsive dog breed.  They have a lower The Chinese Shar-Pei is a very alert, intelligent and highly responsive dog breed.  Their aggression threshold to other dogs and tolerance around other dogs is lower than that of other breeds.  By following the recommendations suggested below, aggression toward other dogs can be reduced drastically:

1. Obedience training is highly advised during the early stages of your Shar-Pei’s life.  Socialization with other dogs in early years tends to encourage a less aggressive behavior toward dogs in later years.
2. Maintaining control of your Shar-Pei is essential when in the presence of other dogs.  Other dog owners may not control their dogs so be prepared for the unexpected.
3. Treats, toys, and other positive reinforcement tools should be used to reward good behavior.  Rewarding your Shar-Pei when paying attention in the presence of other dogs is necessary to maintain control.  When around other dogs, your Shar-Pei may be excited and full of adrenalin making it hard to punish the dog.