Advertisements

Why Not to Get a SharPei Dog

by Lisa

The Shar-Pei is a breed that has captured the attention of dog lovers worldwide. With its distinctive wrinkled skin, blue-black tongue, and calm demeanor, it’s easy to see why this dog has become a popular choice for some. However, despite its unique appearance and serene temperament, the Shar-Pei may not be the best choice for every potential dog owner. In this article, we will explore the challenges that come with owning a Shar-Pei, highlighting reasons why you might reconsider bringing one of these dogs into your home.

From health problems to grooming challenges, behavioral concerns to its suitability for various lifestyles, the Shar-Pei requires a special kind of owner. Let’s dive deeper into the reasons why some may choose not to get a Shar-Pei dog.

Advertisements

Health Issues: A Breed with Serious Health Concerns

One of the most significant reasons not to get a Shar-Pei is the breed’s predisposition to numerous health problems. While Shar-Peis are generally known to be hardy dogs, their unique physical characteristics—especially their wrinkles and short snout—can lead to a range of serious health issues.

Advertisements

Skin Problems

Shar-Peis are known for their signature wrinkles, which give them a distinctive look. However, these folds of skin can create an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal infections. The moist, warm spaces between the folds of skin can trap dirt, moisture, and sweat, leading to rashes, irritation, and more severe skin infections if not cleaned and dried thoroughly.

Advertisements

Regular cleaning and care are required to keep these folds free from infection. For many Shar-Pei owners, this means daily or bi-weekly care to ensure that the skin is properly cleaned and dried. Not providing proper skin care can lead to a variety of dermatological issues, some of which may require expensive veterinary treatment or even surgery.

Advertisements

Respiratory Problems

Shar-Peis also suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, a condition common to dogs with short noses and flat faces. This condition can lead to difficulty breathing, snoring, and, in severe cases, the need for surgery to correct the issue. Due to their short airways, Shar-Peis are more prone to respiratory distress, especially in hot or humid weather.

As brachycephalic dogs, Shar-Peis often struggle with exercise, extreme temperatures, and stress. If you live in a hot or humid climate, the breed might not be the best choice due to their increased risk of heatstroke or breathing problems.

Hip Dysplasia and Eye Conditions

Hip dysplasia is another condition that affects Shar-Peis, particularly as they age. This genetic disorder causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, leading to pain and mobility issues. Surgery can be costly and may be required if the condition is severe.

Additionally, Shar-Peis are prone to certain eye conditions, such as entropion, where the eyelids roll inward, causing irritation to the cornea. This can lead to painful infections and may require surgery to correct.

The combination of these health issues—skin infections, respiratory problems, joint issues, and eye conditions—means that Shar-Pei owners need to be prepared for high veterinary costs and ongoing care throughout the dog’s life.

Grooming Challenges: More Than Just a Cute Wrinkle

While the Shar-Pei’s wrinkled appearance may be adorable, maintaining these wrinkles can be a constant challenge. The wrinkles themselves require a significant amount of attention and care, and failure to maintain them properly can lead to infection and irritation.

Wrinkle Maintenance

As mentioned earlier, the skin folds of a Shar-Pei trap dirt, moisture, and sweat, making them prone to skin infections. Regular cleaning and drying of these folds are essential to prevent the development of dermatitis, fungal infections, and other skin conditions. This can be a time-consuming process that many owners may not be prepared for.

Additionally, these wrinkles need to be checked for any signs of irritation or infection regularly. If left unchecked, a small issue can quickly escalate into a more serious medical problem. For first-time dog owners or those who aren’t prepared for the amount of grooming required, this could be overwhelming.

Shedding and Coat Care

While Shar-Peis have short coats, they do shed. However, because they don’t shed in large amounts, some owners may mistakenly believe that the grooming needs of the breed are minimal. In reality, Shar-Peis require regular brushing to keep their coats in good condition. They also benefit from occasional baths, but only when necessary, as excessive bathing can strip their skin of natural oils and exacerbate skin issues.

Maintaining a healthy coat and skin for a Shar-Pei requires consistent grooming routines, including proper brushing, bathing, and drying, as well as close monitoring of the dog’s skin folds. If you’re not committed to performing these tasks, the breed might not be a good fit for you.

Behavioral and Temperament Concerns: A Dog with Independent Traits

While Shar-Peis are generally calm and quiet, they also have a strong independent streak. This can make training and socialization a challenge for first-time dog owners. The breed is known for its aloofness and can be reserved around strangers, which may lead to behavioral issues if not properly managed.

Stubbornness and Independent Thinking

Shar-Peis are not the easiest dogs to train. Their independent nature and sometimes stubborn behavior can make them difficult to manage, particularly for first-time dog owners. This breed is known to be strong-willed and may resist commands or training techniques that don’t align with its way of thinking.

Consistency is key when training a Shar-Pei, but even then, some owners may find the process frustrating. Shar-Peis don’t typically respond well to harsh training methods or overly strict discipline, and they require patience and positive reinforcement to make progress.

Aloofness and Socialization Issues

Shar-Peis tend to be reserved around strangers, and this can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior if not managed properly. Without early and consistent socialization, a Shar-Pei may develop territorial tendencies, growling, or snapping at visitors or unfamiliar animals. Their aloof nature means that they might not enjoy the same level of interaction as more social breeds, which could be an issue for families or owners who want a dog that is more outgoing and sociable.

While Shar-Peis tend to bond deeply with their families, their aloofness can make them more difficult to handle in social situations. Proper socialization from an early age is essential to help mitigate any behavioral issues, but even then, the breed may not be suitable for households with young children or frequent visitors.

Aggression Issues

Though the Shar-Pei is typically calm, it has been known to exhibit signs of aggression, particularly when it feels threatened or its territory is encroached upon. Their natural protective instincts can sometimes lead to overly defensive behavior, and without proper training, this can escalate into aggression. If you are a first-time dog owner or do not have experience managing a dog with a strong protective instinct, this could lead to complications.

Not Ideal for All Living Environments

The Shar-Pei is not a breed that thrives in every living environment. While it is adaptable, there are certain factors to consider before deciding if a Shar-Pei is the right dog for you.

Space Requirements

Shar-Peis are medium-sized dogs that generally do well in most living spaces, provided they have access to regular exercise and mental stimulation. However, they are not the best breed for apartment living, especially if you don’t have time for daily outdoor walks or enough space for them to exercise.

These dogs need space to roam and explore, and they thrive in environments where they can be active and engaged. Without enough space, Shar-Peis may develop behavioral problems, such as excessive barking, digging, or destructive behavior.

Activity Level

While Shar-Peis are not overly energetic dogs, they still require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. A Shar-Pei that is not given enough physical or mental stimulation may become bored, which can lead to behavioral issues such as excessive barking, chewing, or even aggression.

If you lead a busy lifestyle or are unable to commit to daily exercise and outdoor time, a Shar-Pei may not be the best dog for you.

High Maintenance Cost: A Long-Term Commitment

Lastly, owning a Shar-Pei is not a low-cost endeavor. Due to the breed’s health issues, grooming needs, and temperament, there are ongoing expenses associated with keeping a Shar-Pei.

Veterinary costs can be high, especially when it comes to managing the breed’s health problems. Treatments for skin conditions, respiratory issues, and surgeries related to hip dysplasia or entropion can add up quickly. You’ll also need to budget for regular grooming sessions, as well as any emergency health needs that may arise.

Additionally, Shar-Peis often require high-quality food and supplements to maintain their skin health and overall well-being. Regular vet visits and potential treatments for ongoing health conditions should be factored into the cost of owning this breed.

Conclusion: Is a Shar-Pei the Right Dog for You?

While the Shar-Pei is an attractive and unique breed, it comes with several challenges that may make it unsuitable for many dog owners. Its health issues, grooming demands, behavioral quirks, and need for consistent training and socialization can be overwhelming for those who are not fully prepared for the commitment involved.

Before deciding to get a Shar-Pei, it is important to consider whether you are ready for the financial, time, and emotional commitment that comes with owning this breed. While Shar-Peis can make wonderful companions for the right owners, they are not the best choice for everyone. If you are prepared to provide the care and attention they require, a Shar-Pei may be a loyal and loving pet. However, if you are unsure about your ability to meet these needs, you may want to consider other breeds that are better suited to your lifestyle and experience level.

Related topics:

How to Trim Bloodhound Ears

How to Train a Stubborn Bloodhound

How to Potty Train Your Bloodhound Puppy

Advertisements

You may also like

blank

IDOGWO OFWOOF is a comprehensive dog dog portal. The main columns include dog training、dog grooming、keep a dog、feed the dog、dog knowledge etc.

【Contact us: [email protected]

© 2023 Copyright  idogwoofwoof.com