- Allergies
- Fungal Infections
- Folliculitis
- Skin Irritation
Shar-Peis are particularly prone to allergies called «atopy», which most often affect the ears, skin folds, stomach and legs. You need to watch for any excessive paw or belly licking, face rubbing, and unusually frequent ear infections. Seeing a vet is the best way to diagnose your specific allergy trigger and the right way forward for treatment.
The Shar-Pei’s skin folds are constantly rubbing together and any moisture can add to the sandpaper-like effect of the short coat. If you notice that your dog’s skin becomes red, bald, or has an unpleasant odor, take your dog to the vet ASAP so that treatment can begin immediately. One way to prevent fungal infections is by keeping your Shar-Pei clean and dry at all times.
Folliculitis is a disease that causes baldness and small pustules. Short, brush-coated dogs are more likely to suffer from folliculitis than long, smooth-coated breeds. While all dogs carry a bacteria called Staphylococcus intermedius in their skin, Shar-Peis are especially susceptible to this condition because of their skin folds. Itching and biting from irritation can cause sores on the skin, so be sure to get your dog started on the right treatment as soon as you can.
General skin irritation is very common in Shar-Peis due to their short hair and wrinkled skin. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s coat so you can be sure to catch an irritation quickly. As you can see, there are a number of conditions that can cause Shar-Pei skin problems, so be sure to see your vet if you notice anything unusual about your dog.
Shar-Peis are particularly prone to an allergy called «atopy» which most commonly affects the ears, skin folds, stomach and legs. You need to watch for any excessive paw or belly licking, face rubbing, and unusually frequent ear infections. Seeing a vet is the best way to diagnose your specific allergy trigger and the right way forward for treatment.
Do Shar Peis loose?
Do Shar Peis loose?
No, Shar Peis don’t shed very often but you would expect them to shed during shedding season. They are seasonal but brushing the coat is effective enough to keep shedding to a minimum.
Do Shar-Pei dogs shed a lot?
Shar-Pei dogs do not shed much, or often. They release little throughout the year, but seasonal outpourings can be expected twice a year in the spring and fall.
This natural process is how these dogs prepare their coats for the changing seasons and in response to changes in temperature.
Main characteristics of the Shar-Pei
The appearance of the Chinese Shar-Pei is unmistakable. Head and body shape, deep wrinkles and darkened nose and muzzle are characteristic features of this ancient breed.
The coat can be any color or sable. The coarse, short coat is the source of the Shar-Pei name, which means «sandskin» or «sandpaper» coat.
Historically they were bred as hunting dogs in China before they were banned as pets.
Keep an eye out for deals on tissue boxes, wipes and mops – this unique, wrinkled breed drools a lot. They are suitable for apartments, but you have to install air conditioning. Shar-Peis are sensitive to heat because of the wrinkles on their heads. They don’t need a yard if you promise them a daily, sunny walk. Fill their water bowl often. They are quite active indoors so keep fine china locked away. Shar-Peis shed little or no hair.
Scheduled six-monthly check-up visits with your veterinarian are important to ensure your dog is healthy and happy throughout his life. Clubbed feet, joint dislocations, and kidney disease are some of the conditions that affect this breed. Together with your veterinarian, you can determine and maintain a preventive health care plan based on your canine companion’s needs.