Shar Pei Health

The Chinese Shar-Pei can exhibit a wide variety of health problems, however please don't be concerned by the number of health issues that I have raised here. A large majority of Shar Pei do not exhibit any of the following problems, but it is important that you are aware of what can be lurking behind that gorgeous bundle of wrinkles that you are considering.

The safest means of obtaining a healthy sound Shar-Pei is by dealing with a reputable breeder. Be sure that the breeder can present proof of health certification on both parents - and that you will receive a written health guarantee with the puppy.

ENTROPION - An eye condition in which the eyelid rolls in towards the eye. The eyelashes or hair on the eyelid can rub against the cornea causing irritation and possibly corneal ulcers. Surgery is required to correct this problem.

HYPOTHYROIDISM - The thyroid gland produces a hormone which controls the metabolic rate of the animal. Hypothyroidism (low thyroid production) displays a wide variety of symptoms ranging from dull thin hair to ear infections.

AMYLOIDOSIS - A generic term for a collection of diseases which causes an abnormal amount of amyloid protein to be deposited throughout the animals body.

DEMODECTIC MANGE - A skin condition caused by a tiny mite, Demodex canis, too small to be seen without a microscope. Most dogs acquire Demodex mites from their mothers shortly after they are born. Demodex mites are found on the skin of most animals, and yet these animals do not have a problem. 90% of all affected pups will improve if treated.

SEBORRHEA - Chinese Shar-Pei are prone to primary seborrhea (seborrhea oleosa). Symptoms include: yellow to yellow-brown scales, greasy coat and skin, itchy skin, skin infections and a rancid odor.

GASTRIC DIALATION - Bloat. As is the case with so many dogs Chinese Shar-Peis are prone toward Bloat. They are deep chested and tend to swallow a great deal of air while eating.

All prospective puppy purchasers should be aware that the Australian Kennel Control Council frowns on puppies of any breed being sold before they reach eight weeks of age. When buying a Shar Pei puppy it is also wise to recall those wise words of Confucius, "Look before you leap".

The Chinese Shar Pei is, as you have learned is an ancient breed that has mesmerized people all over the world. When you are ready to adopt a Shar Pei of your own, be prepared to invest a great deal of time, energy and resources on finding the right puppy. This is not always an easy task for even the most experienced of breeders, let alone the novice pet owner.