Shar Peis are a unique and beloved breed known for their distinctive wrinkled faces, short coat, and gentle temperament. These dogs are often sought after for their loyal and calm nature, but they do come with some particular traits that potential dog owners should be aware of. One common question that arises when considering adopting a Shar Pei is: “Do Shar Peis drool a lot?“
While drooling is common in many dog breeds, some people find it to be an unpleasant trait, particularly if they are not prepared for it. This article will take a deep dive into the drooling habits of Shar Peis, exploring the causes, how much they drool, and what you can do as an owner to manage it.
Understanding the Shar Pei’s Physical Characteristics
Before discussing drooling, it’s essential to understand the Shar Pei’s physical characteristics that may influence this behavior. The Shar Pei is a medium-sized breed with a compact and muscular build. What makes the breed so distinct are its deep wrinkles and loose skin, which cover most of its face, especially around the eyes, mouth, and neck. These wrinkles, along with a unique short coat, give the Shar Pei its unmistakable “hippopotamus” look.
Shar Peis were originally bred in China for purposes such as guarding and hunting. Their wrinkled skin was believed to provide some protection against bites from wild animals, which made them more resilient in combat situations. While they are not as active in these roles today, they still retain many of the physical traits that make them fascinating to dog lovers.
Do All Dogs Drool? Understanding the Basics of Dog Drooling
Before diving into the specifics of the Shar Pei’s drooling behavior, it’s important to understand why dogs drool in general. Drooling is a natural and common behavior for most dog breeds. Dogs drool for various reasons, including anticipation of food, excitement, and certain physical conditions. It is important to distinguish between normal drooling and drooling that may be a sign of health issues.
Factors That Influence Drooling in Shar Peis
Shar Peis, like other breeds, can drool. However, several factors can influence how much drool you will encounter as a Shar Pei owner. These factors include their physical structure, diet, and certain medical conditions that may affect drooling behavior.
1. The Shar Pei’s Wrinkles and Skin Structure
The Shar Pei’s most noticeable feature is its deep wrinkles. These folds of skin, while adorable, can sometimes contribute to drooling. The folds around the mouth can trap moisture, making it seem like they are drooling more than other breeds. Sometimes, food or water may get caught in the wrinkles, leading to an increase in drool accumulation. As a result, Shar Peis may appear to drool excessively, even though it is mostly caused by moisture trapped in their skin folds rather than continuous salivation.
2. Excitement and Anticipation of Food
Like most dogs, Shar Peis are known to drool when they are excited or anticipating food. For example, if a Shar Pei sees its owner preparing their food, or when it smells something delicious, it may begin to salivate. This type of drooling is entirely normal and is a result of the dog’s natural instinct to prepare for eating. The drooling may be more pronounced if the dog is particularly excited or hungry.
3. Hot Weather and Physical Activity
Drooling is a natural response to heat and physical exertion. When the weather is hot or the dog is physically active, its body temperature rises, and drooling helps to regulate this temperature. In the case of the Shar Pei, their short coat and wrinkled skin can sometimes make it harder for them to stay cool, especially in hot weather. As a result, they may drool more as they try to cool themselves down.
How Much Do Shar Peis Actually Drool?
Now that we’ve discussed the factors influencing drooling, let’s answer the main question: how much do Shar Peis drool? Generally speaking, Shar Peis do drool, but they are not known for being excessive droolers compared to some other breeds. While it’s common for them to drool when excited or after eating, their drooling habits are not as extreme as certain other breeds, such as St. Bernards or Mastiffs.
However, their wrinkled faces can make it appear as though they drool more than they actually do. The folds of skin around their mouths can trap saliva, which can accumulate and make it seem like they are drooling excessively. This accumulation of moisture in the skin folds may require extra care from owners, especially during and after meals.
Do Shar Peis Have Any Health Conditions That Could Increase Drooling?
While most Shar Peis drool within the normal range, there are some medical conditions that can increase drooling in the breed. It’s important for Shar Pei owners to be aware of potential health issues that may lead to excessive drooling, as these conditions often require medical attention. Here are a few conditions that could affect the Shar Pei’s drooling habits:
1. Entropion
Entropion is a condition in which the eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eye. This can cause irritation, pain, and excessive tearing. The discomfort caused by this condition can lead to drooling in some cases. While entropion does not directly affect the mouth, the discomfort in the eyes can cause the dog to salivate more. Fortunately, entropion can be surgically corrected by a veterinarian, so it is not a permanent issue once treated.
2. Dental Problems
Just like any other breed, Shar Peis can experience dental issues that may result in drooling. Issues such as tooth infections, gum disease, or misaligned teeth can cause pain and discomfort, leading to excessive drooling. Regular dental care, including brushing your dog’s teeth and scheduling check-ups with the vet, can help prevent dental problems that may cause drooling.
3. Heatstroke and Overheating
Shar Peis are particularly susceptible to heatstroke due to their short coats and wrinkled skin. They can easily become overheated in hot weather, which can lead to excessive drooling as their body tries to cool itself. Heatstroke is a serious medical condition that can be life-threatening, so it’s important to monitor your Shar Pei during warm weather and ensure they stay cool and hydrated.
4. Gastrointestinal Issues
In rare cases, Shar Peis may experience drooling due to gastrointestinal problems such as nausea or acid reflux. If your dog is drooling excessively and also displaying signs of discomfort or vomiting, it may indicate a digestive issue. In such cases, it’s crucial to visit a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to Manage Drooling in Shar Peis
While some drooling is natural and expected, managing excess drool from your Shar Pei can help maintain a clean and comfortable living environment. Here are some tips for dealing with drool:
1. Regular Cleaning of Wrinkles
The folds and wrinkles on a Shar Pei’s face can trap moisture, food, and saliva, which may lead to excess drool. Regularly cleaning the wrinkles with a damp cloth can help keep them free of trapped moisture and prevent discomfort for your dog. Be sure to dry the folds thoroughly after cleaning to avoid irritation or infection.
2. Monitor Their Diet
While drooling is often related to excitement or anticipation of food, the type of food you feed your Shar Pei can also play a role. If your dog is drooling excessively after meals, it may be a sign of food sensitivity or a reaction to certain ingredients. Consider discussing your dog’s diet with your veterinarian to ensure it is appropriate for their needs and doesn’t contribute to excess drooling.
3. Keep Them Cool in Hot Weather
As mentioned, Shar Peis are prone to overheating, which can lead to drooling. During hot weather, make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water and shade. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day, and consider providing cooling mats or fans to help your Shar Pei stay comfortable.
4. Veterinary Check-ups
If your Shar Pei starts drooling excessively without a clear cause, or if the drooling is accompanied by signs of illness such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Excessive drooling could be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs to be addressed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shar Peis do drool, but they are not among the most excessive droolers compared to other breeds. Their distinctive wrinkles and skin folds may give the impression of more drooling, but this is often just saliva that gets trapped in the folds. As long as your Shar Pei is healthy and well-cared for, drooling should not be a major concern.
By understanding the reasons behind drooling, maintaining good hygiene practices, and ensuring that your Shar Pei stays healthy, you can manage drooling effectively and provide a comfortable living environment for your dog. With the right care, your Shar Pei will continue to be the charming, loyal companion that makes this breed so special.