What To Do About Shar Pei Problem Behaviors
The ancient Chinese Shar Pei is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. The Shar Pei is a real survivor, having endured a history of dog fighting and near extinction. The breed originated in the Guangdong Province of China and was originally bred to fight, with loose skin and small ears that make it difficult for other dogs to bite them in fights.
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.
It is important to socialize the Shar Pei at an early age. If a Shar Pei gets used to being around other dogs when it is a puppy, the Shar Pei will continue to get along with other dogs as it matures. Similarly, Shar Pei behavior problems with cats and children can be avoided if the dog is exposed to cats and children when it is a young puppy. A Shar Pei who grows up with cats and kids will play well with them as 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.