Chinese Shar-Pei

The name "Shar-Pei" literally means "sand-skin". The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient and unique breed, thought to have been in existence since the Han dynasty in China around 200 B.C. The origin of the Chinese Shar-Pei can be traced to the province of Kwun Tung and has for centuries existed in the southern provinces of China. These dogs helped their peasant masters in various tasks such as herding cattle, guarding the home and family, and have proven themselves to be qualified hunters of "wild game, usually wild pigs. They have also been used to fight other dogs for sport. When the outlawing of pets were outlawed on the mainland China, the breed almost disappeared but the breed was rescued by Matgo Law, a Hong Kong breeder. Although a centuries old breed, they did not make an appearance in the United States until the 1970s. They were recognised by the AKC in 1991.

An alert, compact dog of medium size and substance; square in profile, close coupled; the well-proportioned head slightly, but not overly large for the body. The short, harsh coat, the loose skin covering the head and body, the small ears, the "hippopotamus" muzzle shape and the high set tail give the Shar-Pei a unique look all of its' own. Colors include black, cream, fawn, red-fawn, red, sable, apricot, chocolate, isabella, and blue. The nose may be black or brick (pink with black), with or without a black mask.

Regal, alert, intelligent, dignified, lordly, scowling, sober and snobbish essentially independent and somewhat standoffish with strangers, but extreme in his devotion to his family. The Shar-Pei stands firmly on the ground with a calm, confident stature. In addition, the Shar-Pei tends to be a one-person dog and many make good guard dogs. Because of their strong personalities, they need firm training and socialisation. They do not adapt well as kennel-dogs and are much better off in the company of people.

References:

Nicholas, Anna Katherine. Chinese Shar-Pei. New Jersey: T.F.H. Publications. 1990.

American Kennel Club Inc. The Complete Dog Book. 18th ed. New York: Howell, 1992.

http://www.i-love-dogs.com/

http://www.hoflin.com/