Shar Pei Pup

Today, it’s not difficult to obtain a Shar Pei pup, as this breed is no longer rare, but several decades ago, the Shar Pei was new and very rare in the USA and Europe. Actually, the Shar Pei is an ancient dog breed dating back to around 3,000 B.C. It developed in China in isolation from the rest of the world. Only in the 1970s, several purebred Shar Pei dogs were brought to the USA to save the breed from extinction in the motherland.

Though a Shar Pei pup is no longer a matter of prestige, it’s not the right choice for any family. This breed has its own pros and cons. These dogs and especially puppies attract buyers by their unusual appearance, but they are not the easiest dogs to own. Though very intelligent, these dogs may be difficult to train because of their independent nature. They need a firm and strong-willed owner able to be a leader for a large and strong dog. If the owner is too mild, the Shar Pei will display dominant behavior and will be difficult to control. Only positive methods of training work with this breed. Drill and dull repetitive exercises make a Shar Pei bored very soon.

A Shar Pei pup needs early socialization with various people and animals. Without early socialization, these dogs grow up very protective, suspicious, and standoffish towards strangers. Cats and smaller pets should never be trusted with a dog of this breed, but a Shar Pei does well with other dogs, if raised together. As for exercise needs, these dogs are inactive indoors and need long daily walks. The Shar Pei hates water and needs no special grooming, except for brushing and cleaning eyes, ears, and wrinkles.

Those who buy a Shar Pei puppy because it looks so cute with a short muzzle and deep wrinkles all around the body should take into consideration that adult Shar Pei dogs change considerably. They have wrinkles only on the forehead and withers. Some dogs have more wrinkles than the others, but it’s impossible to predict the future look of the dog when you see a Shar Pei pup.