The behavior of the Schipperke Dogs is one that can be considered as being courageous, independent, playful and very loving. These dogs make very good companions. Schipperke dogs are strong headed and enjoy being busy. Because they are very easy to train, they make very good house pets. The Schipperke Dogs are somewhat friendly to other dogs and pets but are cautious with people that they are not familiar with.

The origin of the Schipperke Dog Breed

Although there is still some controversy about the exact origin of the Schipperke Dog Breed, most people believe that they originated in Belgium as far back as the 1600.It was first believed that these dogs were boat dogs that were used to do different jobs for boatmen who traveled between Antwerp and Brussels.

Because the word “schip” means” boat” in Flemish, most people believed that the name Schipperke referred to these dogs as little boatmen. In Belgium these dogs were known as “Spitz”. Some people also believed that these dogs were used as watchdogs and ratters for the middle class and tradesmen.

Although we may not be sure of the origin of the Schipperke dogs, their existence was not documented until sometime in 1960. In Brussels these dogs participated in local competitions sponsored by their owners. Their popularity increased tremendously until almost every household had one of these dogs. Several Schipperke dogs came to the United States in the late 1880s. Since then their popularity has been slowly increasing.

Care for the Schipperke Dogs

Schipperke dogs should be stimulated both mentally and physically because they always need to be busy. Because the Schipperke dogs are small dogs, a few brisk walks on the leash together with some playtime either indoors or outdoors would be sufficient exercise for them. These dogs love to look for something to do even when they are relaxing.

These dogs do not do well in the heat, but do very well in cool temperatures. They should not be left outside to live altogether, but should be allowed to sleep indoors with the family. These dogs love to be busy, so ideally they should have access to a fenced-in yard during the day. You should brush these dogs thoroughly at least once a week.

Health Problems for the Schipperke Breed

The only major health problem connected with the Schipperke dogs is MPS IIIB. Minor health problems could include hypothyroidism, epilepsy and Legg-Perthes. Occasionally, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), distichiasis, CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), and entropion may occur. It is recommended that you have your Schipperke tested for DNA for MP IIIB, thyroid and hip problems. With the proper care and attention, a healthy Schipperke dog may live between thirteen and fifteen years.

This Breed has been used as military dogs, guide dogs, guard dogs and were also used to pull wagons for performers. In time, they were also used to perform in circuses. It soon became fashionable for women to have these dogs as companions.

They then became popular with the French aristocrats and became the official dog of France. In the late 1800s the Poodles first participated in dog shows. Since then, they have become the most popular house pets.

Poodle dogs can be either the standard type or the miniature type. The miniature Poodle dogs are very friendly, intelligent and obedient. They are also very eager to please. They are very sensitive dogs and can be quite loyal to their owners. The Poodle dogs are good with children and get on very well with other household pets.

The standard Poodle type of dogs are said to be the smartest and most obedient of any dog breed. This type of dogs have a personality that is both playful and adventurous, which makes them very endearing to a lot of people. They love to run, swim and fetch. They are also very good around children and make good house pets.

Care and Attention for the Poodle Dogs

Both types of Poodle dog breeds need a lot of human interaction. They should have daily exercise which should include brisk walks and mental games. They both enjoy retrieving games, especially if played in shallow water. Of course, it is important to note that the standard type of these dogs need more exercise than the miniature type.

Poodle dogs should not be kept outside but should be allowed to live indoors with the family where they are more comfortable. They are really happier dogs with people around them. These dogs thrive on the love and attention of their owners. Poodles love to be held and petted.

Health Concerns for the Poodle Dogs

Standard Poodle dogs may suffer from Addison’s disease, gastric torsion and sebaceous adenitis while the miniature type could develop problems with Legg-Perthes, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), patellar luxation and epilepsy.

It is recommended that both types be tested by a veterinarian for hip dysplasia, DNA for VWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease) and for any eye problem. Both types of Poodle dogs can live for about thirteen years.

Quick Stats for the Lowchen Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 10 – 13 inches (25 – 33 cm)
• Weight: 9 – 18 pounds (4 – 8 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting – AKC recognized in 1996
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair; good for dog allergy sufferers
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Lowchen Dog

The Lowchen is a wonderful companion dog for a quiet family that enjoys having a lovable and high-spirited small dog around the house. With their high energy levels and friendly attitude towards people and other animals, this dog is a ball of fun to have around, always willing to please. They are considered to be easily trainable.

Additionally, the Lowchen makes an excellent watchdog, similar to most small dog breeds.

History of the Lowchen Dog Breed

Pronounced “Lerv-chun”, the Lowchen name means “Little Lion Dog”. This dog breed shares its roots with several other members of the Bichon family, such as the Havanese and Bichon Frise.

Where the Lowchen came from is still unknown, even though several countries have all claimed to have created the breed (France, Russia, and Germany). We do know that dogs which resembled the Lowchen, with its noticeable lion trim, were found in German artwork from the 16th century.

Traditionally, the lion trim look came with the coat clipped short from the dog’s last rib all the way down to the hock joint, including the hindquarters. The front legs are shaved from the elbow to slightly above the dog’s pastern. The feet are also clipped and approximately one half of the tail is shaved. Whatever long hair is left over is left ‘as is’.

The Lowchen dog breed almost vanished during the 1960s when its numbers had slipped down to almost none. Fortunately, through the help of two dog enthusiasts, the Lowchen was revived when this group of breeders imported a handful of related dogs from Germany and moved them to Britain. The animals were in such small numbers that they had to be interbred extensively which helped form the base for today’s Lowchen breed in both Britain and in the United States.

The survival of the Lowchen dogs proved to be successful and the breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1996.

The Lowchen Care and Grooming

Because of its small size, the Lowchen can have its exercise requirements fulfilled with a short walk or brief play sessions on a daily basis. These dogs also enjoy mental stimulation and fun games.

Lowchens are not meant to live outside but it does appreciate having the freedom to roam in an enclosed yard if possible.

Grooming does require a little work, with a thorough brushing every other day. To keep its traditional lion trim, Lowchen dogs will need clipping every couple of months.

These dogs shed little to no hair and great for people who suffer from allergies.

Health Problems of the Lowchen Breed

The average life expectancy of the Lowchen is about twelve to fourteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this dog breed.

Minor health issues include:

• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Grant and Caroline’s pix via Flickr

Quick Stats for the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 10 – 11 inches (25 – 28 cm)
• Weight: 13 – 15 pounds (6 – 7 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1935
• Shedding: sheds very little
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; very active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

The Lhasa Apso is an elegant member of the Non-Sporting Group. The appearance of this dog cannot be mistaken. With its long flowing coat and small stature, the Lhasa Apso makes the perfect companion for individuals that enjoy a small house pet, yet one with the personality and boldness of a guard dog.

Lhasa Apsos are affectionate, assertive, highly intelligent, devoted and active. They are loyal to their loved ones but are weary of strangers.

Families with small children may reconsider adopting a Lhasa Apso, as they do not like to be handled improperly. If you have small children and do want a Lhasa Apso, be sure to teach your children before adopting a puppy to respect the family dog and to not mistreat it.

Another key to stopping a problem before it starts is to be sure to socialize your Lhasa Apso very early on. This is key with this breed as they do tend to have problems with strangers, other pets and children.

It can be difficult to train Lhasa Apsos. Do not give up on training your animal though and remember that Lhasa Apsos love treats, so it may be best to go the motivational training route.

History of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

Bred as guard dogs to noblemen and monks because of their excellent hearing, the Lhasa Apso is originally from Tibet.

The Lhasa Apso was so prized, the dog could not be purchased or adopted, and it was given out only as gifts from the Tibetan ruler. They were very important to their masters as they could hear strangers and intruders coming and would alert their human if they felt the presence was threatening.

These dogs were also used as dependable watchdogs in monasteries. They would sound off the alert through barking when visitors approached. This service gave rise to the nickname “Abso Seng Key”, which means the Bark Lion Sentinel Dog.

When the breed made its way to England they were known as the Lhassa Terrier, even though it was not a terrier in any way, shape or form. The name Lhasa Apso is the breed’s western name, said to have been derived from its native name.

The first Lhasa Apso dogs made their way to the United States sometime during the early 1930s.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1935 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Lhasa Apso Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Despite the small size of the Lhasa Apso, this dog needs a moderate amount of daily exercise to keep it happy. These exercise requirements can be met with several brisk walks on the leash or simply running around the living room. Play sessions outdoors are also acceptable so long as the area is safe.

This breed is not meant to live outside. They were originally bred for companionship and should stay that way. Apartment living is best suited for the Lhasa Apso.

Grooming requirements consists of a thorough brushing every other day to keep its long coat neat and clean.

These small dogs have long, silky coats that hang to the bottom of their paws. Their fur color can range from slate gray to white to brown or an amber color and often changes in color from puppy to adult. Lhasa Apsos have plumed tails and curls on their backs. They have deeply set eyes that are often covered by the fur from their head and their muzzles are of medium length.

Health Problems of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed is about twelve to fourteen years, although there have been dogs that have been known to live as long as eighteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• patellar luxation

Minor health issues include:

• distichiasis
• entropion
• renal cortical hypoplasia
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• sebaceous adenitis
• urinary stones
• bleeding ulcers

Veterinarians recommend having the Lhasa Apso Dog Breed tested specifically for knee and eye problems.

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Quick Stats for the Keeshond Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 17 – 19 inches (44 – 48 cm)
• Weight: 55 – 65 pounds (25 – 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1930
• Shedding: heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); best with average sized yard (minimum); prefer cool climates; do not like extreme heat

Personality of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The Keeshond is one of the most affectionate and friendliest members of the Non-Sporting Group. This dog has the physical appearance of a fluffy, square-shaped Northern-type breed. The coat is harsh and long, perfect for withstanding cool temperatures.

The temperament of the Keeshond can be summed up in one word: loving. These dogs are as tender and affectionate as can be, not only towards its family members but also with other dogs and pets in the house. However, do not let this soft-hearted temperament fool you – the Keeshond also makes a great watchdog and will bark incessantly at incoming intruders.

History of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The Keeshond has its roots from the Netherlands, dating back to the 1700s. However, the exact history of the breed is not documented. We do know that it was widely popular in Holland since the 18th century, owned by families as companions and devoted watchdogs.

Several years before the French Revolution the breed got twisted into the affairs discussed around the political events of the time. This was due largely in part from a man named Kees de Gyselaer, who was the leader of the Patriot faction. He owned a large number of these dogs and used them in so many political cartoons that the dogs became known as Patriot symbols.

Unfortunately, since this party did not win, many owners of Keeshond dogs got rid of their pets, not wanting to have anything affiliating them with the losing party. However, the breed did survive in enough numbers to continue. By 1925 the Keeshond made its way to England.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1930 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group .

The Keeshond Dog Breed Care and Grooming

This is a moderately active breed that can get its exercise requirements from a few brisk walks on the leash and some playtime, both in or outside the home. They are compact enough in size to make ideal house dogs, but always appreciate a romp outside. The Keeshond is an overly-social dog that enjoys interacting with other dogs and people.

With its harsh coat, the ideal climate for the breed is in cool locations. They do not tolerate heat well and can live outdoors if need be. However, Keeshond dogs are meant to be companions and should sleep inside at night with the family. Grooming requirements call for a good brushing two to three times weekly.

Health Problems of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Keeshond Dog Breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• epilepsy
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation
• skin problems

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• renal cortical hypoplasia
• mitral valve insufficiency
• tetralogy of Fallot

Veterinarians recommend having the Keeshond Dog Breed tested specifically for knee, hip, and cardiac problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): 12 inches (30 cm)
• Weight: 19 – 22 pounds (9 – 10 kg)  and 22 – 28 pounds (10 – 13 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1898
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: good for apartments; fairly active indoors; okay without a yard; not good with extreme temperatures

Personality of the French Bulldog Breed

The French Bulldog is a fun-loving, clownish lapdog that enjoys playtime and being the center of attention. They love to cuddle and curl up next to you. These dogs are extraordinarily sweet, willing to please, and make great companions for anybody. They are slightly stubborn when it comes to training but once conditioned through obedience lessons,

French Bulldogs can make great trainees.

History of the French Bulldog

The Bulldog was extremely popular in England during the 19th century, particularly around the area of Nottingham. Most of these dogs were very small, weighing in at less than 25 to 30 pounds. They made their way to France when a large number of lace workers headed to the area for work and brought their small toy Bulldogs with them.

The Frenchwomen absolutely adored these little dogs, specifically the ones that had erect ears. This feature of the ears were very common, but most people did not like this look back in England. Soon enough, many more of these clown-like looking dogs were brought to France by dog dealers, which were referred to as Bouledogue Francais.

As their popularity grew, the breed had caught the attention of wealthy families throughout the entire upper class. You could find French Bulldogs in some of the most prestigious homes throughout France. It was during this same time period that American travelers who were visiting France brought several Bulldogs back to the United States and began breeding them.

Soon an entire American club was created for this dog and 1898 they had sponsored one of the most popular and elegant dog shows that was ever displayed. This dog show was specifically for French Bulldogs and had attracted large numbers of wealthy spectators which helped the breed’s popularity skyrocket in America. Their popularity among the rich continued to soar and the French Bulldog was rated the most popular show dog in the United States in 1913.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1898 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The French Bulldog Care and Grooming

French Bulldogs are quite small and like most toy-sized dogs, physical exercise can be met through a nice walk on the leash or a romp through the house. These dogs do not do well in hot weather but can take the cold if necessary. This is one breed that should be living indoors at all times. Also keep in mind that these dogs tend to wheeze, snore, and drool.

Grooming care is minimal, with the occasional brushing once weekly. However the facial wrinkles should be cleaned on a daily basis.

Health Problems of the French Bulldog Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the French Bulldog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• intervertebral disk disease
• brachycephalic syndrome
• dog allergies

Minor health issues include:

• hemivertebra
• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

French Bulldog (Dog Breeds)

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$160.25

• Height (at the shoulders): 15 – 20 inches (38 – 51 cm)
• Weight: 31 – 35 pounds (14 – 16 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1991
• Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay without a yard (with sufficient exercise)

Personality of the Finnish Spitz Dog

Finnish Spitz dogs make excellent watchdogs and have average-to-medium levels of playfulness, affection, and energy. You will find that these dogs are not very friendly towards strangers and other pets, but their cold temperament towards outsiders makes them a loyal protector to its family.

This dog is very independent and a bit stubborn, but also alert and inquisitive. They are generally good with children and other pets from the same household, but will bark incessantly when strangers approach.

History of the Finnish Spitz

Today’s Finnish Spitz dog stems from its ancestors, northern Spitz dogs, which were owned by Finno-Ugrian tribes traveling across the lands of Eurasia and Finland. It is theorized that these early dogs were used as watchdogs. Soon after, they were used to help assist hunters.

While most dog breeds experience crossbreeding through time, this dog remained pure due to isolation. It was not until the early part of the 1800s that interbreeding with other dogs became common practice once introduced into the region. In fact, interbreeding almost wiped out the original pure Finnish Spitz.

The bloodline was saved thanks to a couple of Finnish sportsmen who saw a pack of these dogs that had apparently not been mixed with other breeds.  They were so impressed by the look of the Finnish Spitz that they decided to rescue and save the original breed.

During this time, several names were introduced to describe the Finnish Spitz. Suomenpystykorva was one of them.  It meant “Cock Eared Dog”. Another name that was used was the Finnish Barking Bird Dog.

When introduced to England they were called Finsk Spet dogs.  However, in 1891, the name was officially changed over to the Finnish Spitz and inherited the name “Finkie” in England during the 1920s.

It was not until the late 1960s that the Finnish Spitz was breeding in the United States.  Finnish Spitz dogs of today are mostly considered to be household pets in the U.S. but are still used to hunt in Finland. They hunt such animals as the black grouse and the capercaille bird.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1991 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Finnish Spitz Dog Breed Care

Upkeep of the Finnish Spitz requires daily exercise needed from long walks or runs outside. Having a large fenced-in area for this dog to roam is recommended. Due to its hunting ancestry, you must be careful not to let this dog roam by itself without a leash in an area that will attract it towards scent hunting. It will run off on its own if not well trained.

You can keep this dog outdoors due to its high tolerance towards cold, but as all pets prefer, your Finnish Spitz will appreciate and enjoy sleeping inside with the rest of the family.

Health Problems of the Finnish Spitz Breed

The average life expectancy of the Finnish Spitz is about twelve to fifteen years.

Amazingly, there are no major or minor health concerns for this breed.

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• epilepsy
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Finnish Spitz: Specia Rare-Breed Edtion : A Comprehensive Owner’s Guide

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$11.58

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 22 – 24 inches (50 – 60 cm) ; bitches: 20 – 22 inches (50 – 55 cm)
• Weight: 55 pounds (25 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1888
• Shedding: constant shedder; heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; very active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Dalmatian Dog Breed

The Dalmation is one of the most recognizable dogs with its distinctive black spots.

They are full of energy and just love to run for long distances. They make excellent house pets, although they can be a little stubborn when it comes to training. Because of their high energy, they may be a little too intense for small children. They also tend to be a little aggressive towards other animals, especially strange dogs. However, they have been known to be gentle with other types of pets such as cats and even horses.

Young Dalmatians are extremely energetic and require a strong and confident leader. They do calm down with age, and most people who can get through that very active stage usually find that they have such a wonderful pet.

History of the Dalmatian Dog Breed

Where the breed originated from has caused much debate. There are many examples of spotted-type dogs throughout history. These dogs have been found in Africa, Europe, and even in Asia. Depictions of spotted dogs have been found in ancient Egyptian and Greek art.

Some people claim that the dog originated in Yugoslavia. However, a spotted dog known as the Bengal Pointer existed in England. This of course contradicts the breed’s Yugoslavian origin. Other people have claimed that the breed in fact originated in Croatia.

During the Middle Ages, the dog was used as a hound dog. In the 1800s, these dogs became quite popular for trotting alongside the horse and carriage. They guarded the horses and the carriage while their owners were otherwise occupied.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1888 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Dalmatian Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Because of the high energy levels of this particular breed, it is usually best for individuals or families who maintain an active lifestyle. The Dalmatian will not be happy with just a short daily walk. They need to be able to run for long distances, or play vigorously outdoors in a safe area. These dogs are actually great companions for runners.

This breed sheds constantly, but sheds really heavily twice per year. To help manage the shedding, brush them frequently with a high quality brush such as the Chris Christensen T Brush or the Chris Christensen Pin Brush.

These dogs do not have the typical doggy odor and will only need a bath on occasion.

Health Problems of the Dalmatian Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Dalmatian dog breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• deafness

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism
• dog allergies especially skin allergies
• iris sphincter dysplasia
• seizures
• urinary stones

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Veterinarians recommend having the Dalmatian dog breed tested specifically for hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, potential hearing loss, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 18 – 22 inches (46 – 56 cm)
• Weight: 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: about 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1903
• Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay with a small yard

Personality of the Chow Chow Dog Breed

The Chow Chow is believed to be one of the top rated watchdogs. They are very protective and cautious when it comes to defending and guarding their families. Because of this strong protective instinct they are very wary of strangers and other animals. They are quite good with children however.

They are not really playful dogs and can be a bit of a challenge to train.

Because of their short muzzles, these dogs will often snore.

History of the Chow Chow Dog Breed

The exact origin of the Chow Chow is not quite known. What is known is that this dog breed has been extremely popular in China for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. There are pictures depicted on ancient Chinese pottery of dogs closely resembling the Chow Chow.

The original purpose of the Chow Chow is thought to have been as a hunting dog. They were used to sniff out and find birds. Over time, the quality of the breed started to decline and their numbers steadily declined. However, a few of these dogs were kept inside monasteries, and with a few wealthy families.

The breed may be related to the Chinese Shar Pei, since both breeds can be traced back to China, and both have the distinctive black and blue mouth.

The name “Chow Chow” is believed to have originated from an old English slang term for all the odds and ends that were brought to England from the Far East during the 1800s.

During the late 1800s, the first Chow Chows made their way to the United States from England. Queen Victoria took a great interest in this breed, which helped their popularity to grow.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1903 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Chow Chow dog breed Care and Grooming

Chow Chows are not very tolerable of hot and humid weather. They would rather enjoy a nice cold day. Keep that in mind when you take them outdoors for exercise and other activities.

As far as exercise goes, a daily brisk walk should be sufficient.

Grooming their smooth, thick coat requires at least a weekly brushing with a good dog brush, perhaps a Chris Christensen pin brush.

These dogs are seasonal heavy shedders. Take extra care when they are shedding their thick undercoat. During shedding season, you may want to brush their coats every other day.

Health Problems of the Chow Chow dog breed

The average life expectancy of the Chow Chow dog breed is about fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• entropion
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation

Minor health issues include:

• stenotic nares
• elbow dysplasia
• distichiasis
• gastric torsion
• cataracts
• glaucoma

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 18 – 20 inches (46 – 51 cm)
• Weight: 40 – 55 pounds (18 – 25 kg)
• Life Expectancy: up to 10 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1992
• Shedding: light shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; okay without a yard

Personality of the Chinese Shar Pei Breed

The Chinese Shar Pei can be described as courageous, independent, and a bit stubborn. They are also intelligent, playful, and active. These dogs are very devoted family pets, which makes them protective.

In general, they are great with other household pets, but can be overly aggressive towards strange dogs and animals.

They can be good with children if they are introduced to them when they are still young.

History of the Chinese Shar Pei Breed

The exact origin of the breed is unknown, but some experts believe that the Shar Pei has some connection to the Chow Chow dog breed. They believe that both dog breeds share common ancestors. Of course, both dogs are also from China.

Some evidence suggests that the history of these dogs go as far back as the 13th Century, with stout, wrinkly dogs being portrayed in writings during this time. The Shar Pei may even have its roots way back to around 200 B.C., in the southern provinces of China.

The history of the breed is hard to trace because most of the records about the breed were lost or destroyed when China became a communist country. Originally, the breed was used by peasant farmers for dog fighting, guard dogs, and to hunt wild boar.

Not too long after China became a communist country, many of the dogs in the country were destroyed. A few dog breeds survived in the rural areas, and several Shar Pei were bred in Taiwan and Hong Kong. The breed was officially recognized by the Hong Kong Kennel Club in 1968.

Around this time, several Chinese Shar Pei were introduced to the United States. In 1973, an article was published pointing out the alarmingly low numbers of the breed. At that time, the Shar Pei was considered one of the rarest breeds in the world. Many dog enthusiasts made great efforts to revive this wonderful breed.

Their efforts really paid off. The breed went from being almost extinct to great popularity and are now one of the most recognizable dog breeds today.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1992 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Chinese Shar Pei Breed Care and Grooming

The Shar Pei needs daily exercise along with plenty of mental stimulation. Take them on a long walk, or play active games like fetching with them. Be aware that they are sensitive to warm weather.

Grooming requirements for this breed is minimal. Brush them regularly with a good quality dog brush, such as one of those from Chris Christensen. You will need to pay special attention to the facial wrinkles and the skin folds. Examine them for any signs of skin infection.

These Shar Pei is a light shedder.

Health Problems of the Chinese Shar Pei Breed

The average life expectancy of the Chinese Shar Pei breed is up to ten years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• entropion

Minor health issues include:

• amyloidosis (kidney failure)
• otitis externa
• patellar luxation
• skin fold pyodermas
• dog allergies
• hypothyroidism
• fever
• swollen hocks syndrome

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book: