The Shar Pei is a unique and charming breed, easily recognizable by its deep wrinkles and “hippopotamus” face. While many find these dogs endearing, owning a Shar Pei comes with its own set of challenges. This article will explore the reasons why Shar Peis are considered hard to own and provide a realistic view of what it takes to care for them. If you’re thinking of adding a Shar Pei to your family or already own one, it’s important to understand the challenges and rewards that come with this fascinating breed.
1. Unique Grooming Needs
Shar Peis are known for their signature wrinkled skin, but this distinctive feature requires diligent care. The folds in their skin can lead to hygiene issues if not properly maintained, making grooming one of the most important aspects of caring for this breed.
The Importance of Skin Care
The deep folds in a Shar Pei’s skin trap moisture, dirt, and debris. If not cleaned regularly, this can lead to skin infections, irritation, and unpleasant odors. Shar Peis are particularly prone to pyoderma, a bacterial skin infection that thrives in their folds.
Solution: Regularly clean your dog’s wrinkles with a damp cloth or medicated wipes designed for dogs. It’s essential to dry the folds thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture buildup. Bathing should also be done regularly, but not excessively, as over-bathing can dry out their skin.
Coat Maintenance
Though Shar Peis have short coats, they still shed, especially during seasonal changes. This means they need regular brushing to remove loose hairs and prevent matting. Their unique coat also means they can be prone to skin sensitivities and irritations, requiring more specialized grooming than most dogs.
Solution: Brush your Shar Pei’s coat a couple of times a week to remove dead hair and prevent any tangles or mats. Use a gentle brush that won’t irritate their skin. Consider consulting a professional groomer who has experience with Shar Peis to ensure proper care.
2. Health Issues and Medical Costs
Shar Peis, like many purebred dogs, are prone to specific health issues. These can make them more challenging to care for, especially since some conditions may require expensive treatment and ongoing management.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Shar Peis have a short, flat nose, a feature common to brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs. This can lead to breathing problems, particularly during exercise or in hot weather. Brachycephalic syndrome is a collection of symptoms that can cause difficulty breathing, snoring, and even collapse in severe cases.
Solution: Owners must be cautious during exercise and avoid intense physical activities, especially in hot weather. It’s important to ensure your Shar Pei has access to plenty of fresh water and is kept cool during warmer months. Regular vet visits will help monitor their breathing and ensure any issues are addressed promptly.
Entropion
Another health issue commonly found in Shar Peis is entropion, a condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to irritate the eye. This painful condition can lead to eye infections and, if untreated, permanent damage to the cornea.
Solution: Regular eye checkups are important to catch any signs of entropion early. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the condition. This means regular veterinary care is vital to prevent long-term complications.
Hip Dysplasia and Other Joint Issues
Shar Peis can also be prone to hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and arthritis. This can make physical activity difficult and painful for the dog.
Solution: Ensuring your Shar Pei maintains a healthy weight and avoids excessive exercise can help mitigate the risk of joint problems. Regular vet check-ups and possibly joint supplements can also help manage this condition.
3. Temperament and Behavior Challenges
Shar Peis are known for their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. While they can be affectionate and loyal, they are not typically the most obedient or eager to please. This can make training more difficult, especially for first-time dog owners.
Independent Nature
Shar Peis have a strong independent streak. They are not as eager to please as some other breeds and may not be as responsive to commands. This means training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
Solution: Shar Peis respond best to firm, calm, and consistent training. Positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, works better than punishment. Early socialization is also essential to prevent any issues with aggression or fearfulness.
Protective Instincts
While their calm demeanor may seem to make them great family pets, Shar Peis can be overly protective. This breed can be wary of strangers and may display aggressive behavior if they perceive a threat. Their protective instincts make them excellent guard dogs but can be challenging in a household with children or unfamiliar visitors.
Solution: Early socialization with various people and environments is key to minimizing fear-based aggression. Exposing your Shar Pei to new experiences while they’re still a puppy will help them become more comfortable with strangers. It’s also important to establish yourself as the alpha, so your dog understands that you are in control of the situation.
4. Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Shar Peis are not as high-energy as some other breeds, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Their unique personality means they may not always be motivated to exercise, and if they don’t get enough physical or mental activity, they can become bored or destructive.
Exercise Needs
While Shar Peis are not particularly active dogs, they still need daily walks to maintain their health and prevent obesity. Due to their brachycephalic nature, they may not be able to handle long or intense exercise sessions.
Solution: Keep your Shar Pei on a moderate exercise schedule. Short, frequent walks are ideal. Be mindful of the weather, and avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day. Your dog will enjoy mental stimulation from short, enjoyable walks and interactive play sessions.
Mental Stimulation
Shar Peis are intelligent but independent, and they can easily become bored if not mentally stimulated. Without proper enrichment, they may develop undesirable behaviors like chewing or digging.
Solution: Use puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games to keep your Shar Pei’s mind engaged. Consistent mental stimulation will also help reinforce good behavior and ensure your dog is happy and well-adjusted.
5. Space Requirements
Though Shar Peis are relatively small in size, they require space to move around comfortably. They can adapt to apartment living, but only if they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Living Space Needs
Due to their moderate energy levels, Shar Peis can adapt to smaller living spaces, such as apartments. However, if you live in a small apartment, you must commit to providing regular outdoor exercise and stimulation.
Solution: If living in a small space, ensure you have a routine that includes plenty of outdoor time. Without enough space to roam, your Shar Pei may become anxious or destructive. Make sure you can provide them with a stimulating environment, even in smaller areas.
6. High Maintenance Ownership
Owning a Shar Pei requires a significant commitment. Between grooming, health care, training, and socialization, the time and financial investment can be higher than with some other breeds. It’s essential to evaluate whether you have the time and resources to meet these demands before deciding to adopt or purchase a Shar Pei.
Commitment to Care
Shar Peis are not low-maintenance dogs. They require regular grooming, health checks, and training. Their medical needs can also be costly, particularly if they develop conditions like entropion or hip dysplasia. Additionally, their independent nature means you’ll need to be patient with training, and their protective instincts mean that socialization and proper introductions are key.
Solution: Make sure you have the time, energy, and finances to provide for your Shar Pei’s needs. This breed requires a dedicated owner who understands their unique traits and is willing to invest the effort needed to maintain their health and happiness.
Conclusion
While Shar Peis are undeniably unique and loyal companions, they are not the easiest breed to own. They require a commitment to grooming, health care, training, and mental stimulation. Their independent and sometimes stubborn nature means that training can be challenging, and their protective instincts require a firm and consistent approach. Additionally, the breed is prone to several health issues that can lead to expensive veterinary bills.
If you’re considering a Shar Pei, it’s crucial to evaluate whether you can provide the level of care they need. They are best suited for experienced dog owners who have the time, patience, and resources to meet their unique needs. With the right care and attention, however, a Shar Pei can make a loving and loyal addition to the family.