BRIEF HISTORY
The Shar-Pei originated in China many centuries ago. They were used for herding, hunting, guarding and as dog fighters, but most importantly they were a family pet. When the Chinese Communists came into control they became nearly extinct. During the 1960’s there were very few left and they became the rarest dog in the world.
In 1970 a gentleman by the name of Matgo Law began a rescue operation of his native breed. A few specimens found their way to interested parties in the United States. Thanks to this man the breed is no longer an endangered species.
TEMPERAMENT AND CHARACTER
If you have never had the pleasure of meeting a Shar Pei before, the first impression might just as well be that of a kind, though independent, even arrogant dog with a mind of their own.
Indeed, these dogs are often arrogant and standoffish with strangers. Of course, this makes people think that a Shar Pei is smarter than it looks, but under the mask of arrogance and indifference hides the mischievous soul of a natural-born clown.
It is in their home surroundings that these dogs reveal their true character, their numerous faces and aspects of mood. Each of them is truly individual and a great wonder to discover. This is what makes Shar Pei so capable of true and loyal friendship unlike many other pets. Talking about the character of these teddy bears, first and foremost they are calm, independent and devoted to their family. Moreover, these dogs are very enduring, noble and wise, seeming to be able to read your mood and know when you need that little bit extra love or laugh.
A Shar Pei truly enjoys human company, especially that of children – they can play with them for hours and stand any liberties the children might take. A Shar Pei can and is extremely patient and discreet. They are never aggressive without an obvious cause., a will give a warning growl if a situation that are in gets out of their control. These reflexive animals should be given an opportunity to assess the situation and use their own discretion when it comes to action. Amazingly sharp sight allows keeping everything under control – at all times. Although historically these dogs were meant for protecting property, the Shar Pei is no worse a bodyguard than a Mastiff. These energetic and fast-running dogs have more than a fair chance of protecting human life against any potential threat and will do so if they feel their family needs them.
A Shar Pei needs a firm owner, someone who will put them in their place.
While the Shar Pei is one of the most unusual and distinctive breeds, it should not be purchased simply “because we wanted something different”. It can be an excellent, appealing family dog and a worthy watchdog and will accommodate itself to most living situations. It can also be stubborn, self-willed and try to dominate its owner. The heavily wrinkled skin which gives this breed its unique appearance brings with it a heavy responsibility to take care of it. The Shar Pei’s propensity for arguing with other dogs also must be taken into account. This is definitely not a breed for novice dog-owners.
TRAINING
The Shar-Pei is very intelligent and learns easily. He can do extremely well at obedience training. It is very important that early socialising be carried out, with humans and other dogs. It is also important to remember that a Shar Pei is not a normal dog, they are a dog all unto themselves, training for a Shar pei will need to be varied and different you see they bore easily. Socialisation is something that will need to continue for the rest of their life.
EXERCISE
Regular exercise in reasonable amounts is the order of the day with the Shar Pei. They are an intelligent breed who enjoys a daily walk or training session, a run in the park or a stroll along the water. When exercising in public, the Shar Pei should be kept on a lead unless they are 100% reliable with recall. Regular brushing and the occasional bath with a soap free shampoo should keep the Shar Pei’s unique coat in good condition. Shar Pei are unique in that their inner health shines in their coat, if you feed a Shar Pei too much protein it will reflect in their coat, ears and general health.
LIFE SPAN
If a Shar Pei is well cared for they can live up to 12 years. There are reported cases of a Shar Pei living to 14 years old.
HEALTH
Some of the problems Shar-Pei can suffer from are Hip Dysplasia, Luxating Patellas, Entropion, Skin problems and Allergies. Shar Pei bitches can drop their coat after whelping, also both sexes can look a little moth eaten when moulting. Do not mistake these as skin problems as this is quite normal for this breed. Although they are also prone to Demodex Mange.
THE IDEAL SHAR-PEI OWNER
A responsible person who is willing to share their life and home with their Shar-Pei, and we do mean your home, a Shar Pei is not an outside dog, they are a very clean house companion and normally house train themselves.A person well versed in canine behavior or willing to learn. A person willing to train and socialise their Shar-Pei. Shar-Pei crave human companionship and are not a dog that should be left in the backyard and forgotten about.
SHAR PEI Rescue
Is a small group of people who are self funded and committed to rescuing and rehoming 
this exquisite breed. All dogs that come into care at SHAR PEI Rescue receive all vet work & training required which in turn, allows the dog the luxury of settling into their new home without the excess baggage they came into care with. For SHAR PEI Rescue it’s all about finding the right home for the dog, and if that means the dog has to stay in care for 6 months, he or she does. All dogs must do at least 3 weeks in care to properly assess the temperament and needs of the dog. Some dogs are actually born in care, some are golden oldies when they enter care but the majority of the dogs in our care are aged between 9 months and 3 yrs.
For further information, please visit www.sharpeirescue.com.au.
