Cindy’s Other Blog

DNA evidence has established that Shar Pei dogs are among the oldest dog breeds in the world. The breed has survived all manner of hardships. Originating in the Guangdong Province of China, Shar Pei dogs were originally bred for dog fighting, as their loose skin and small ears makes it difficult for other dogs to bite them in fights.

Shar Pei problem behaviors are mostly misconceptions based on the breed’s dog-fighting origins and upon the baseless belief that the Shar Pei descended from the Chow Chow, a difficult and temperamental breed. Owners who encounter problems should consult dog training books for advice. Shar Pei dogs nearly became extinct and were once declared the most rare dogs in the world. Shar Pei dogs are survivors, though, and the breed is no longer considered a rarity.

Shar Pei dogs are sweet, lovable dogs that were also trained to work as watchdogs and guardians, protecting livestock from predators. The Shar Pei may look intimidating because it has been bred to wear a frown on its face; however, most Shar Peis are friendly and loyal and make excellent pets.

Shar Pei owners should socialize their dogs at an early age, with other dogs, with cats and with children. Shar Pei behavior problems such as getting along with other dogs, cats and children can be avoided by exposing the dog to these influences when it is a young puppy. That being said, an adult Shar Pei can adapt to a family with other dogs, or cats or children, however more training may be needed, especially if the dog is expected to obey commands given by a child. Owners may consult dog training books for training ideas.

Overall, Shar Pei dogs are easygoing and calm. They are self-assured dogs that need confident handlers. Shar Pei training must be consistent, firm and gentle. The Shar Pei may refuse commands from family members whom the dog perceives as being lower in the pecking order of the pack. Owners may consult dog training books for advice on how to overcome these issues. While some other dog breeds may resist housebreaking, the Shar Pei is notoriously easy to housebreak. The dogs are very clean and dislike soiling their living area.

The most frequent Shar Pei problem behaviors that Shar Pei owners complain of is barking. Because of its ancestry as a watchdog, Shar Peis tend to bark when strangers approach. Like most behavior problems, the barking problems can be overcome with patience and consistent discipline. Again, dog training books are valuable training aids.

Shar Peis have also been known to act out mischievously, stealing food from kitchen counters. Owners can deal with this behavior by denying the dog access to the kitchen unless the owner is present.

Like most dogs, the Shar Pei needs regular exercise. The dogs are active while indoors, so they do not need the exhausting romps that high-strung dogs need. In fact, Shar Pei tend to overheat, so owners should be very careful not to exhaust the dogs outdoors, especially in warm weather. When considering that the Shar Pei was once forced to fight to the death, and then nearly driven to extinction, the Shar Pei’s determined survival as a faithful companion and family pet is indeed remarkable.