Shar Pei

Sometimes referred to as Chinese Shar Pei as their origination was in China around 200 B.C., this medium-sized dog can be referred to as shar pei. Loosely translated, shar pei means “sand-paper-like coat.” Their identifiable characteristics include a blue-black tongue, a “hippopotamus” shaped head and their skin. Those folds of loose skin that start on their face and continue down their back make them appear wrinkled. Those who are considering a shar pei adoption will want to give it careful consideration and educate themselves on the medical issues this breed might face. Most of the problems involve the eyes, ears, mouth and respiratory system, and most are hereditary.

Primary entropion is the most common eye problem, which is a defect in the eyelids and occurs in an older puppy or young adult. (Secondary entropion occurs when a puppy is 10-14 days old.) The shar pei’s eyelids roll in and irritate the eyeball. Eye tacking is a surgical, albeit not permanent, treatment which allows the cornea to heal. When considering a shar pei adoption in this age range, you will need to be alert to notice its first symptoms, which are watering eyes or squinting. Glaucoma, retinol dysplasia, “cherry eye,” SARDS and chemosis are other eye problems common to this breed.

The ears of the shar pei are naturally small, making it difficult for air to circulate. Therefore, the new parent of a shar pei adoption will need to thoroughly and frequently clean their ears. If not, chronic yeast overgrowth can occur, which can lead to infection. Problems with the mouth include bite, tight lip and lip fold pyoderma. As a short-nosed breed, respiratory problems may also occur. Shar peis also can contract familial shar pei fever (FSF) and swollen hock syndrome (SHS).

Although they belong to the non-sporting group, the shar pei have retained some herding traits from their original purpose of working on Chinese farms. Therefore, they require obedience training and socialization early in life, and lots of exercise throughout their life. In a shar pei adoption you will be gaining an intelligent and independent dog that will be extremely devoted to your family. Its wrinkled face only appears to frown; in reality it is easy going. This playful companion is also a good watch dog.

A dog is more than its potential health problems. And it’s true you may not know a dog’s history when adopting. But you will be gaining a playful, faithful family member.