Chinese Shar-Pei

Calm, independent, loyal, affectionate to his family.

This Chinese breed has existed for hundreds of years in the provinces bordering the South China Sea. The town of Dialak in the province of Kwun Tung is probably the place of origin.

The name Shar-Pei means sandy coat, referring to the gritty sandpaper texture of the coat. When rubbed backward, the prickly coat can be uncomfortable, and even cause welts on the skin of an occasional sensitive person.

If given proper exercise, this breed can do okay without a yard. An average sized yard is suggested, but is not required. This breed loves walks with his owner however due to the folds of skin, which can make him overheat, fresh water should always be provided.

The coat of the Chinese Shar-Pei is not very high maintenance, however it should be brushed to remove loose or dead hair occasionally. A rubber brush should suffice. The ears should be cleaned regularly as well as under the folds of skin.

The training of this dog must be made by a person with experience, determined, who is not giving signs of weakness, hesitance, because it will show its inborn instincts of domination. The training must be firm and consistent and made from an early age. It needs daily a lot of exercise, only this way it will have no problems in house.

The wrinkles from the body and head must be cleaned regularly, for not getting infected. If it is necessary, they could be brushed with a soft brush.

This very clean breed almost housebreaks itself. The brush coat sheds a little year round, but the horse coat tends to shed only during molting periods. Molting may leave the dog looking unkempt. Bathing about once a week and brushing the coat daily durin