Chinese Shar Pei

Chinese Shar Pei are the most unique breed of dogs in the world. DNA has proven them to be one of three breeds most closely related to wolves although you would never know it by looking at them. They prefer human companionship to that of other dogs although will accept other canines as friends. They can be warm and social and delightfully funny. Some call them the comedians of the dog world. Different scientists have traced their lineage back to the 15th century while others say they date back to 200 B.C. They were initially bred to protect Chinese Royalty and Samurai Warriors, later on they were used as fighting dogs. When pushed to their limits their ferocity is unmatched. There are actually different varieties of the breed, there are what they call meat mouths which are generally heavily wrinkled with short muzzles, stocky builds and deep inset almond shaped eyes. Then there is what they call bone noses, this variety of Shar Pei has a longer muzzle and less wrinkles and generally speaking are a little taller and larger. They can have three different types of coats, a horse coat which is short and bristly to the the touch and then there is the brush coat which is longer and softer, lastly is the bear coat which is long and soft. Shar Pei are unique in so many ways, like humans no two look identical, they have different facial features, conformation and color. Their loyalty to their human counterparts is unmatched, they would much prefer the company of humans to anything else and separation anxiety can be a problem with them. Their temperaments and personalities also differ as much as humans, they range from being aloof and independent, the proverbial class clowns, or lap dogs. Many people once they have one Shar Pei have to have a second one and few ever go back to a different breed. Their intelligence is uncanny, almost eerie at times. We find ourselves having to spell in front of them and before long they learn that also. Shar Pei known as "the wrinkle dogs" will steal your heart.