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Teaching Your Shar Pei

Shar Peis are survivors. DNA testing has confirmed that they are one of the world’s oldest known breeds of dog, originating in the Guangdong Province of China. Sadly, Shar Pei dogs were originally bred for dog fighting, with their loose skin and small ears making them difficult for other dogs to grasp. At one point Shar Pei were declared the most rare dog in the world, but the breed survived and is no longer considered such a rarity.

These sweet, lovable dogs are thought to have descended from the Chinese Chow Chow, although there is scant evidence to support this theory. Shar Pei training enabled the dogs to work on farms as watchdogs and guardians, protecting livestock from predators.

Shar Pei problem behaviors, when they occur, are usually the fault of an owner who misunderstands the breed. The Shar Pei can look intimidating because of the frowning expression on its face, but most Shar Pei are very friendly dogs who are loyal to their handlers. Dog training books can be an aid for owners who are not sure how to train the Shar Pei.

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.

Overall, Shar Pei dogs are easygoing and calm. They are self-assured dogs that need confident handlers. Shar Pei training must be consistent, firm and gentle. The Shar Pei may refuse commands from family members whom the dog perceives as being lower in the pecking order of the pack. Owners may consult dog training books for advice on how to overcome these issues. While some other dog breeds may resist housebreaking, the Shar Pei is notoriously easy to housebreak. The dogs are very clean and dislike soiling their living area.

Some Shar Pei owners complain that their dogs bark to excess, no doubt because of the breed’s origin as a vigilant watchdog and guardian. Shar Pei dogs have a tendency to bark at strangers who approach or newcomers who enter the family home. These problems, like other Shar Pei problem behaviors, can almost always be overcome with patient, consistent discipline. Dog training books are highly recommended as aids for training the Shar Pei.

The breed has been known to steal food left out on kitchen tables and countertops. This mischievous behavior can usually be resolved if the owner controls access to the kitchen, allowing the Shar Pei in the kitchen only when the owner is there to supervise.

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.

Socializing a Shar Pei is an essential part of Shar Pei training. Suggestions for handling Shar Pei problem behaviors can be found in dog training books.