Cats, Dogs and other Pets

Shar Peis are survivors. DNA testing has confirmed that they are one of the world’s oldest known breeds of dog, originating in the Guangdong Province of China. Sadly, Shar Pei dogs were originally bred for dog fighting, with their loose skin and small ears making them difficult for other dogs to grasp. At one point Shar Pei were declared the most rare dog in the world, but the breed survived and is no longer considered such a rarity.

Shar Pei problem behaviors are mostly misconceptions based on the breed’s dog-fighting origins and upon the baseless belief that the Shar Pei descended from the Chow Chow, a difficult and temperamental breed. Owners who encounter problems should consult dog training books for advice. Shar Pei dogs nearly became extinct and were once declared the most rare dogs in the world. Shar Pei dogs are survivors, though, and the breed is no longer considered a rarity. Shar Pei dogs are sweet, lovable dogs that were also trained to work as watchdogs and guardians, protecting livestock from predators. The Shar Pei may look intimidating because it has been bred to wear a frown on its face; however, most Shar Peis are friendly and loyal and make excellent pets. Shar Pei owners should realize the importance of socializing the dogs at an early age. Likewise, Shar Pei behavior problems getting along with cats and children can be avoided by exposing the dog to cats and children when it is a young puppy. That is not to say that an adult dog cannot adapt to a family with cats and children; however, more training may be needed to get the dog to obey commands from a child. Dog training books contain tips on how to socialize an adult dog. Generally speaking, the Shar Pei is an intelligent, easygoing breed. They are confident dogs that respect the leadership of a confident handler. The Shar Pei may refuse commands from children or other family members that the dog perceives to be below it in the pecking order of the family, but these problems can be overcome with appropriate training and reinforcement. Some dog breeds are hard to housebreak and have problems even in adulthood. Shar Pei dogs are very clean. Once a puppy is old enough to control its bodily functions, it is extremely unlikely to urinate or defecate inside the house. The most frequent Shar Pei problem behaviors that Shar Pei owners complain of is barking. Because of its ancestry as a watchdog, Shar Peis tend to bark when strangers approach. Like most behavior problems, the barking problems can be overcome with patience and consistent discipline. Again, dog training books are valuable training aids. Shar Peis have been known to help themselves to food left out on countertops. This mischievous behavior can be remedied by the owner’s denying the dog access to the kitchen unless the owner is present. All dogs, the Shar Pei included, need regular exercise but Shar Pei dogs have a tendency to overheat. Owners must watch the dogs carefully to avoid overheating during exercise, especially in hot weather. Looking back at the Shar Pei’s origins as a fighting dog, then its comeback from near extinction, the breed’s survival and endurance to become the faithful companion and family pet that it is today is remarkable and admirable.

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