December 4, 2008

Chinese Shar Pei

by Melissa Coleman

If you are looking into Shar Pei types, you may stumble across the blue Shar Pei. These Shar Pei have a blue coat, hence the name and are one of the rare colors this breed comes in. It takes a significant amount of work on the part of breeders in order to produce healthy blue Shar Pei’s.

This breed has a wonderful temperament and unlike their believed breed start the chow, they are great with kids. The Shar Pei have their origins in China and were bred specifically for the face, brains and strength, the blue Shar pei is a rare color so expect to pay more if you want one than you would for another color.

They were later used for things like fighting since the large amounts of excess skin and the prickly coat made it difficult for other dogs to keep a hold of. In 1973, the breed was introduced to the U.S. through a dog magazine, by a Hong Kong businessperson. It quickly grew in popularity and now has a registered foundation stock of more than 70,000 dogs.

The breed is recognized by the AKC, CKC, FCI, UKC, KCGB, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, and ACR organizations. It is a southern group and listed as non-sporting. The blue Shar Pei like other colors of its breed has some health concerns. These concerns include fevers, which do not appear to have any noticeable cause and swollen hocks. Occasionally there will be some Shar Pei that have skin problems, though this is not as some think because the dog has excess skin. However, it is more than likely caused by excessive uncontrolled breeding, which has created a hereditary weakness.

Most reputable breeders strive to provide only healthy dogs. If you are unsure, ask to speak to other buyers and see what they have to say about the dogs they have purchased from the breeder you are looking into. This can help put your mind at ease when it comes to picking a breeder that will provide you with a healthy puppy.

A blue Shar Pei is a rare color and so you should expect to pay more for this type of Shar Pei. They are beautiful animals and have a great temperament so they are good with children, unlike their possible ancestors the chow.

in the last few years before aggressive breeding and expansion measures of the breed was initiated in hopes to save the magnificent breed. Its popularity has expanded and registered in many of the known dog associations around the world, more than seventy thousand dogs in this foundation stock alone.

These dogs weight between forty and fifty-five pounds so they are considered medium sized animals be sure to check with your home owners’ association or apartment complex before purchasing one. Blue Shar Pei’s make a great addition to any household so why not consider one of these lovely dogs the next time you are looking for a pet to being into your home.

About the Author:

Melissa Coleman is a passionate lover of the Shar Pei and has a popular website that can show you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Shar Pei. Among other topics at this website, you will find out more about Shar Pei Types plus a whole lot more.