Chinese Shar Pei: photo, description and characteristics of the breed

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

Shar Pei… The breed, the true origin of which is hidden in the mists of time, fanned by mysticism and mystery. The Chinese Shar Pei, which almost disappeared from the face of the earth several times, was revived again and again thanks to the incredible efforts of cynologists, breeders, and simple amateurs, who, by chance, united into a single team.

Interesting and surprising not only because of the history of origin and appearance of the Chinese Shar Pei breed. Photos, breed standards, character, nuances of caring for puppies, features of keeping adult dogs - this will be discussed further.

The secret of the "Han dog": the origin of the breed

The origin of the existence of the breed is rooted in ancient times, in the depths of three millennia. The name of the breed is of Chinese origin. This is no coincidence. Images on household items and figurines found during archaeological excavations eloquently indicate that Shar Pei was already known in the periodreign of the Chinese Han Dynasty. The "golden age" of China's economic and cultural development is the most important milestone in the life of the "Han dog".

The exact place of her appearance is not documented. Researchers suggest that the Chinese Shar-Pei can originate both from the south and from the north of China:

• South coast: Kwong Tung (Dag Let village) or Guangdong (Thaily) provinces.
• Northern China, Tibet.

In ancient times, the Shar-Pei was used as a universal dog that guarded homes, guarded cattle in the pasture, protected peasant farms from mongooses, hunted in the mountains and on the plains.

Often, at the will of the owner, Shar Pei became a fighting dog. Strong jaws tightly dug into the flesh of the opponent, small ears tightly pressed to the head did not allow the enemy to grab them, strong bones adequately withstood any shake, the abundance of folds, prickly hair and stubborn disposition gave an additional advantage in battle. Turning him into an exclusively fighting dog did not give only one quality of character - peacefulness. The good-natured, striving for peace and harmony, the Shar Pei - the Chinese fighting dog - did not become a real fighter like that. However, participation in dog fights opened the doors of the houses of nobles, temples and even the imperial palace to meet him. Sharpei has become a luxury item, a source of income, a favorite of the nobility, gradually becoming inaccessible to ordinary people.

On the brink of extinction

During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), China reachedthe maximum level of cultural and economic development, but could not resist the onslaught of the Manchu troops who came from the north. The country plunged into a series of wars, a crushing wave of devastation and hunger swept through it. This situation caused a loss of interest in the Chinese Shar Pei, the number of dogs began to decline rapidly.

The policy of the Chinese Communists led to the threat of complete extinction of the breed on the territory of the state. All the forces of the working people were thrown into the building of socialism. In such conditions, dogs have become considered an unaffordable luxury, taking away the last food from the workers.

Huge taxes were imposed on the maintenance of animals, and "Han dogs" were under a strict ban due to the participation of this breed in battles. Millions of dogs were thrown into the street and subjected to systematic destruction.

Famous compatriots of Shar-Peis - Pekingese and Chow-Chow - by this time firmly settled in Europe, so their fate was not so tragic. The Shar-Pei, which did not have time to become widespread, began to disappear at an alarming rate, and by 1970 the breed had become truly unique.

Chinese phoenix, or the feat of cynologists

Dog breeders from different countries, joining forces, for five years looking for the surviving sharpei throughout China. The rescued dogs were taken first to Hong Kong, then to America.

The breed standard was regulated in 1976. After only two years, the American (or Chinese) Shar Pei took its rightful place in the Guinness Book of Records as the most rare and exotic.breeds. It served as a great advertisement and played a big role in the rebirth of the Chinese dog.

In the 80s of the XX century Shar-Pei were brought to Europe, in the 90s - to Russia. Just 4 years later, exotic dog puppies were sold at the bird market at a price of $ 1,000, and a year later the cost increased to 3.5-4 thousand dollars.

The task of restoring and further improving the breed characteristics was complicated by the fact that most of the documents related to the origin of the dog and its breeding were destroyed at the direction of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, further breeding of the breed was kept secret, and Chinese Shar Pei puppies were sold at a fabulous price. price.

Meet Shar Pei. First impression

Some external features of the Shar Pei lead scientists to believe that the ancestors of the Chinese dog were Molossians (ancient mastiffs) and Chow Chow. From the Molossian Shar Pei took a fortress, solidity, a certain monumentality. He is related to the Chow Chow by a similar physique and a blue tongue, which, according to legend, is a talisman that protects the owner of the dog from evil spirits.

The very name of the breed (sa-pei - "sand skin") is of interest and speaks of another exotic feature of the breed. The adjective "sandy" in this case does not refer to the color of the animal, but to the structure of the coat, which feels like granular prickly sand to the touch. On the back and sides, the hair is straight, short, raised, like bristles, on the limbs - smoothed.

If the subject of discussion becomesChinese Shar Pei, the characteristics of the breed first of all begin with a description of the amazing folded skin. In puppies, loosely hanging skin creates profuse folds in the head and neck area and covers the entire torso. As they grow older, the folds may remain only on the neck, withers and head.

When you look at Shar-Pei, you get the feeling that a small dog has been put on a fur coat that does not fit. The presence of folds may presumably indicate that loosely hanging skin was formed as a result of the breeding of significantly smaller individuals from dogs of impressive size. This statement is to some extent based on historical evidence of the large size of the Shar Pei's ancestors, weighing up to 80 kg.

Chinese Shar Pei: breed description and international standard

In the ancient references to the Sa-Pei, which have come down to our time, the exotic breed is described figuratively:

• the head is like a pear, the ear is like a fat and small sea clam;
• wrinkled face looks like an old man's face;
• broad and blunt nose resembles a moth in shape, and eyes are a sad almond;
• strong neck has a small dewlap like a buffalo's withers;
• powerful chest is emphasized by wide-spaced, like a dragon, forepaws;
• hard and thick pastern resembles a head of garlic, and claws are pincers;
• back flexible and resilient, like a shrimp;
• The tail is like a hard and thin wire, twisted high above the back.

As a result of selection, the Shar Pei genetic fund is mixed with Chow Chow blood,bulldog, boxer, bull terrier. This made it possible not only to preserve the historical features of the exotic dog, but also to obtain the unusual color of the originally red sa-pei. Chocolate, black, cream and even blue coat color gives a special charm to the amazing dog and is no longer a rarity.

Chinese Shar Pei was characterized according to the modern official standard in accordance with the features of an ancient dog:

• Medium height with a solid square build.
• Loin strong.
• The chest is wide, lowered down.
• The neck is short.
• Creases on the head and withers.
• The head is large.
• Ears are small, thick, rounded and close to the skull.
• The muzzle is wide along the entire length, filled like a hippo.
• The eyes are dark, deep-set, reminiscent of almonds; frowning expression in the eyes.
• The tail is twisted in a ring.
• The strongly built dog is compact and active.
• Classification: Molossian group.
• The purpose of the dog in accordance with the classification: hunting and watchdog.

Character traits

Majestic and royally restrained, he treats strangers haughtily, accepts compliments and caresses with a sense of his own importance.

The Chinese Shar-Pei is friendly towards others, the character is calm and independent. Doesn't like conflict. Does not seek to dominate in relationships, but treats other four-legged arrogantly and condescendingly.

Shar pei accumulated feelings such as devotion to the family,love for all its members. The owner for him is the center of the universe. Being alone is bored and longing.

Affectionate, balanced and non-aggressive, he loves children, treats them carefully and reverently, knows how to gently and imperceptibly evade careless children's hands.

He shows his feelings with restraint, although he strives to lick his hand or substitute his folded torso and plush face for scratching. Awkwardly burying his "hippo" muzzle in the owner's knees, Shar Pei freezes under the gentle hand, expressing bliss and pleasure with all his appearance.

Noble, tactful, has a lively, developed mind.

Sometimes it seems that the Chinese Shar Pei exhibits the features of a telepath: he is able to capture not only the mood of the owner, but also the intentions of strangers. If it seems to him that an outsider is hostile towards family members, he will take active and decisive action. Therefore, it is not recommended to talk near the dog accompanying the owner, loudly, impulsively waving his arms.

Watchman, shepherd, hunter

Shar pei almost does not bark: neither in the apartment, nor in the yard, nor in field conditions. It is below his dignity - to bark just like that, for no reason, for nothing. The Chinese Shar Pei shows its character when a stranger appears at the entrance of the house: it will immediately warn family members about this with a menacing roar or deaf heavy barking. On a hike, neither a stranger, nor a hedgehog, nor a lizard will pass by the camp of tourists unnoticed - the Shar Pei will warn of their presence and immediately go to deal with the cause of the disturbance. Slowly, with dignity, almost imposingly.

Chinese Shar Pei is not only a good watchman, but also a born hunter. Despite the fact that its peripheral vision is limited by the deep planting of the eyes, Shar-Pei perfectly focuses on prey. In addition, he has a superficial sense of smell. You can often see a picture: Shar Pei froze in place, his head was raised high up, his eyes froze warily, and his nostrils were wide open and greedily drawn in air streams with smells that were only understandable to Shar Pei, coming from nowhere.

The service qualities of a shepherd laid down by nature turn the sharpei into a tireless guardian of order in any situation when, as it seems to him, these qualities need to be shown. If friends, neighbors' children, colleagues gathered around the owner, the whole company immediately becomes the object of protection of the Chinese dog, which will “graze” everyone out of the corner of its eye, preventing strangers from approaching it without warning.

And God forbid leaving Shar-Pei uncontrolled in a field where a herd of cows is grazing during a walk! Cows will run from him in a circle, obediently huddling into a dense ring, and the Shar Pei himself will get real pleasure, catching up and pinching the slow horned ones by the legs. At the same time, it is almost impossible to catch up with him alone, since he will famously avoid the hands of the catcher, enthusiastically turning the herd in the other direction and continuing to run at a leisurely trot. His movements are harmonious, balanced, free. Not a single animal will be harmed in any way, but the owner's nerves will be pretty frayed.

Parenting: how to overcome stubbornness

Chinese Shar-Pei has an unusual disposition. The characteristic of his main qualities can be given in a nutshell: independence and stubbornness. Together with the mind, developed intuition and intelligence, they create certain difficulties in training.

Shar Pei understands everything that is required of him, almost the first time. But it is important for him to realize and comprehend the purpose of executing the command. Although active, he does not like to waste his energy; running, jumping, even sitting and lying down will not be forced. Pressure, and even more so the use of physical force, will turn an intelligent and quick-witted dog into a cowardly, vicious, aggressive creature. It is absolutely impossible to allow this.

It is impossible to force a Shar-Pei to execute a command - you can only interest him. Patience, perseverance, love, affection - these are the main helpers in training.

This process can hardly be called training, because the Chinese Shar Pei breed requires competent education, similar to teaching a child. The algorithm is simple: to ban the harmful once and for all, to encourage and develop beneficial actions. At the same time, it is important to observe the principle of constancy: if it is impossible, then never. The owner believes that the pet should not climb onto the sofa, which means that this should be prohibited at all times, without exception. In the future, it is almost impossible to convince the pet that the permission of the prohibited actions was just a “bonus action”.

In the process of raising Shar Pei, showing firmness and consistency, it is important to keepfreedom of action, space for self-realization. Then next to the owner there will be a noble, benevolent dog with an individual character; a true friend, smart, loyal, understanding at a glance, ready to defend family members at any moment.

Chinese Shar Pei: care and maintenance

A small ball of happiness appeared in the house. For his successful socialization in a new place, you need to take simple steps. Lower the baby to the floor and leave for 30 minutes to independently explore the territory. Only after that you can offer him food, show where the water is, the toilet is located, his own place is located (away from the battery and drafts).

It is desirable that the couch had sides: sharpei of any age love to put their heavy head on them. You can use a rolled-up towel or a large soft toy as a side.

Feeding

Consult with the breeder - a rule that must be followed. For the Chinese Shar Pei breed, nutrition is one of the main points that affect the he alth of the pet. Therefore, you should strictly follow the recommendations received when buying a puppy.

In the future, if there is a need to change the diet, it should be borne in mind that you cannot mix natural food and dry food during one feeding, as they are absorbed differently by the body.

Dry food should be of high quality, balanced for the needs of this breed. The pet needs to provide constant access to a bowl of clean water. Due to the structural features of the muzzle, Shar-Peis usually drink inaccurately, spilling liquid. To keep the water bowl clean, place it on an absorbent mat or cloth.

When choosing natural food, you should pay attention to the list of prohibited foods:

• pasta;
• legumes;
• pork;
• bird with tubular bones;
• products with s alt and spices, including sausage and smoked meats;
• cheeses;
• milk.

Among the allowed:

• beef;
• buckwheat, rice;
• chicken;
• offal;
• lamb meat;
• sea fish;
• turkey;
• fresh greens.

Chinese Shar-Pei puppies can receive rewards and treats in the form of breadcrumbs without additives, sinewy bones, tripe.

It is important for Shar Pei's he alth not to change the diet unnecessarily, as this can lead to allergies. No more than 22% protein is allowed in food (dry or natural).

Indicator of a balanced diet - active behavior, age-appropriate body weight, no smell, shiny eyes, shiny coat.

The pride and joy of the owner is a he althy, active, full of strength Chinese Shar Pei. A photo of an adult dog is shown below.

Bathing

Bathing a puppy that has arrived at a new location is not recommended until a full vaccination has been completed.

Adult Shar Pei should be bathed no more than twice ayear. More frequent water baths wash away natural lubrication and upset the balance of the skin, causing dry skin and dandruff. When bathing, care must be taken not to get water in the ears, as this can lead to inflammation.

Only paws can be washed often: after each walk, with clean water, without the use of detergents.

After eating, wipe the muzzle in a timely manner so that no food remains in the folds, which can lead to skin irritation and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

The skin folds on the torso do not need to be wiped. If an unpleasant smell appears, you can wipe the wool with a damp cloth, adding vinegar to the water (1 tsp per 1 liter of water). But it should be borne in mind that the appearance of an unpleasant odor is almost always a manifestation of the first signs of a skin allergy. He althy skin and coat do not emit any odor, not even the smell of a dog.

Claws, ears, eyes

Chinese sharpei claws, thick and massive, should be trimmed monthly. In order to do a “manicure” painlessly, accurately and calmly, a pet should be taught to the procedure from a young age.

It is recommended to clean the Shar-Pei's ears infrequently and very carefully. The ear canal is very narrow, and it is dangerous to go deep into it. It is necessary to remove dirt only in the auricle, as needed, without the use of liquid solutions that remain in the narrow ear canal, causing complications. If a pet shakes its head, scratches its ear, from which an unpleasant odor comes, then this may be a sign of an infection or an allergic reaction. The only right decision is to go to the vet.

He althy sharpei eyes usually do not turn sour, there is no redness in them, the eyelids do not swell. Only in the morning, after sleep, a slight souring may appear, which is removed with a soft cloth. If the pet's muzzle has tear tracts, the eyes are sour or reddened, the eyelids are swollen or crusted, self-treatment is strictly not allowed. In this case, a doctor's consultation is required.

Shar pei in the house - well-being in the family

Chinese Shar Pei in the photo and in reality always looks funny, arouses genuine interest. An exotic dog has other advantages that make keeping him in the house desirable:

• Small size (suitable for keeping in an apartment).
• The dog is neat, in the country it makes its route exclusively along the paths, bypassing the beds and flower beds.
• Despite its small size, it is a reliable guard and protector.
• Maintenance required is minimal: weekly comb out the coat, keep eyes and ears under supervision.

The rhythm of a pet's life is a reflection of the life of its owners. He is willing to patiently take a nap on a Sunday morning if family members decide to sleep in longer, but will gladly go for a walk on the first invitation.

A calm philosopher, who guesses desires at a glance, helps relieve stress, improve the climate in the family. Doctors recommend this breed for people with high or low blood pressure, heart disease.

Chinese "four-legged orchid" - in thisimage he appeared from the pages of ancient treatises. A charming plush toy - this is how it turns out in the photo. Chinese Shar Pei is a dog that came to us from the depths of centuries … An inhabitant of palaces and temples, an assistant to ordinary shepherds and hunters, a fighter and a security guard, a psychotherapist and a talisman that protects family happiness. The kindest soul, which he allows only close loving people to look into.