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: Read more

Shar Pei 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 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

All about Chinese Shar Pei

Shar-Pei possess guard-dog and fighting characteristics which were taught throughout ancient history.  Owners need to understand these behaviors in order to effectively and safely restrain their dog.  See the Shar-Pei behaviors and restraint suggestions below before attempting to restrain your Shar-Pei.

BEHAVIORS

• They are very determined, assertive, and independent dogs.
• They are very smart, attentive, and highly quick to respond.
• They have a tendency to be aggressive.
• They have a low tolerance toward other dogs.
• They are content until they are  Most Shar-Pei are very content until they are pushed to do something they are not willing to do such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and physical restraint.
• They will fight to death if physically dominated or in a fierce situation.

RESTRAINT SUGGESTIONS

The following guidelines should be used before using restraints:

1. Shar-Pei are very strong and intelligent dogs.  Using excessive force to restrain the dog could result in extreme aggressiveness.  Chemical restraints are highly recommended but always consult your veterinarian about tranquilizers or other chemical restraints before using them
2. Most Shar-Pei dislike nail trims and their feet being handled.  The vein most tolerated for blood drawing is the jugular vein or the lateral saphenous vein, located on the outside of the lower rear leg rather than that of the cephalic vein in the front leg.
3. Because of all the wrinkles behind the head, a gauze muzzle works better than a leather muzzle.  A leather muzzle can easily slip off and could result in a dangerous outcome.
4. Puppy Training and basic obedience classes are encouraged for puppies.  Early use of socialization and dominant training benefits the Shar-Pei breed more than any other breed.

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