he Shar Pei or Chinese Shar-Pei is a breed of dog known for its distinctive features of deep wrinkles and a blue-black tongue. The breed derives from China. The English name probably derived from British spelling of Cantonese equivalent sā pèih) translates to "sand skin," and refers to the texture of its short, rough coat. As puppies, Shar Pei have numerous wrinkles, but as they mature, these wrinkles disappear as they "grow into their skin".

History

The shar-pei is an ancient and unique breed, existing for centuries in the southern provinces of China in Kwan-Tung. It is likely that the breed has been around since the Han dynasty. Originally recognized as a fighting breed, the shar-pei has also been used for hunting, herding and protection. The term shar-pei translates to "harsh sandy coat" or "sandpaper-like coat" in reference to the bristly feeling of the breed's coat. After the Communists took power in China, dogs were virtually eliminated. Since dogs were previously owned by wealthy individuals, they were thought to be reminders of an elite class that no longer existed. The act of owning a dog under the new Communist regime invited severe penalties. Thankfully, owing primarily to the efforts of Mr. Matgo Law of Hong Kong (which was a colony of Great Britain at the time), a few shar-peis were imported to Hong Kong and Taiwan. From there, breeding continued and the breed flourished. By 1968, the shar-pei was recognized by the Hong Kong Kennel Club. The breed first appeared in the United States in 1966 and was eventually accepting into the American Kennel Club in 1988 as a member of the non-sporting group.

Appearance and Size

The Shar-pei is easily recognized by their loose wrinkly skin. More profound as puppies, most adult shar-peis still retain many wrinkles. Since the dog was originally bred for fighting, the loose skin allowed a shar-pei to turn around and continue to fight if held in another dog's grip. There are two distinctive types of shar-pei hair coats, both short and harsh. The short coated version is referred to as "horse" coated. The longer coated version, though less than 1 inch in length, is referred to as "brush" coated. The most common coat colors are fawn, black, cream, red, chocolate, sable and silver. In addition to distinctive wrinkles, the shar-pei is one of the rare breeds with a blue black tongue. The head is large with a muzzle shape and padded lips reminiscent of a hippopotamus. The ears are small, drooping and close to the head. The tail is carried high and curled over the back in a tight or loose curl. The shar-pei stands about 18 to 20 inches from the ground to the top of the shoulder. A Shar-pei weighs about 45 to 55 pounds.

Personality

The Shar Pei is often suspicious of strangers, which pertains to their origin as a guard dog. In general the breed has proved itself to be a loving, devoted family dog. They are also a very independent and reserved breed. Nevertheless, the Shar Pei is extremely devoted, loyal and affectionate to its family, and is amenable to accepting strangers given time and proper introduction at a young age. If poorly socialized or trained, it can become especially territorial and aggressive. Even friendly and well-socialized individuals will retain the breed's watch dog proclivities (such as barking at strangers). It is a largely silent breed, barking only when playing or when worried. The Shar Pei was originally bred as palace guards in China. While this breed is adorable it is also very protective of its home and family, a powerful dog that is willing to guard its family members. The breed is amenable to training, but can get bored from repetition. Overall, the Shar Pei is a dog that is loyal and loving to its family while being very protective and independent.

Wikipedia and GNU

The content of this entry is from the Wikipedia article "Chinese Shar-Pei" licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.