Bred For:
Length: Short Characteristics: Straight and sandpaper-like Colors: All solid colors and sables Overall Grooming Needs: Low
During the Chinese Communist Revolution, some dogs were rescued by a businessman from Hong Kong, named Matgo Law who asked the American dog lovers to help save the breed in the 1970s. From the few dogs rescued, the Shar Pei fancy was formed, and it grew in popularity over the decades.
The Miniature Shar Pei or Mini Shar Pei is a breed of versatile dogs that are somewhat smaller in size than the Standard Chinese Shar Pei. It is a compact, medium-sized dog with a square profile, well-proportioned head slightly large for its body, dark, small, almond-shaped eyes, small, triangular ears, broad and full muzzle, medium length neck, broad and deep chest, straight legs, and high set tail. The most recognizable feature of this breed is the wrinkles covering its head and neck, adding to its cuteness and charm.
Socialization When you bring a Mini Pei puppy home, make sure that you start its socialization training after 6-7 weeks. Take it out on a walk to a public place and expose it to a wide variety of men, women, and children. Ensure that it hangs out with you and your family members, as well as make time for meeting your neighbors and their well-socialized pets so it can play with them.
Its origin dates to 200 BC and its ancestors are thought to be related to the Bulldogs, Terriers, Mastiffs, and Chow Chows. Over the years, the Shar Pei was used for protecting stock, hunting, and guarding the family, as well as a farm dog in the countryside. Later, it was also developed for dog fighting.
Miniature Shar Pei Pros and Cons Pros
Cons
This amazing breed has a shoulder height of 43 cm and weighs up to 17 kg. Like regular Shar-pei, they have blue and black tongues, (similar to Chau Chaus even though there is no found relation between the breeds) wrinkly heads and bodies, and a curly tail. They are affectionate, confident, independent and they alert amazingly just like their bigger brothers. Before we can fully understand the breed we need to look at the history and traits of the regular Shar-Pei.
They are known to be loyal and friendly, although not so playful, can still become an amazing companion for families with children because of their calm nature. Usually, they don’t get on well with other animals, especially dogs, they can become dominating even aggressive. With long training, they can be used to other companions. These dogs need training so they can overcome their dominating nature and not let themselves be provoked.
They are considered to be reliable watchdogs and they protect their family against anything. They are cautious towards strangers and need some time to warm up to them. One thing is for sure that life will never be boring on their sides.
Their appearance in itself makes them quite unique. The Chinese standard states they need to have: “ears like shells, nose like a butterfly, head large like a melon, the face of a grandmother, throat like a hippo, rear end like a horse and legs like a dragon.”
They appear in multiple colors such as cream, red, or chocolate. They actually thought to have originated about 200BC. Their main purpose was hunting and guarding and have also been popular at dog fights before larger breeds came around. The breed was introduced in the US in 1966 and is recognized by both American and British kennel clubs.
Taking care of either Shar Peis or their miniature version could be complicated sometimes. Because of their wrinkles, they tend to have problems with their skin if the owner doesn’t clean them through frequently. Also after bathing don’t forget to dry the skin between the wrinkles. Their stomachs are quite sensitive so they require high-quality dog food to ensure their metabolic system functions well.
If you want to have an amazing companion by your side who is adventurous, a great guard, independent, a great family friend who comes just in a smaller size but with all the original features and temperament of its bigger brother this breed is meant for you.