The Shar Pei: Two Thousand Years of Variety and Differences How to Differentiate from Shar Pei to Shar Pei
19 Sep 2009
No single breed of shar pei grew and became popular in China. In fact, it can be said that the breeding of the wrinkly and blue-tongued toughie dog breed varied according to the Chinese regions. Therefore, in central China where herding and farming were top social concerns, sharpeis were renowned for their herding abilities and ratting skill that resembled those of terriers.
In the upper regions of China, where smaller communities battled winters in far flung outposts, the shar pei was a level-headed animal not given to sounding out. These qualities were essential for an animal that will need to share long hours with its family in a cramped space.
Having discussed these two classifications, some must be curious to know where the dog known for its fighting abilities figured in. What is significant is that some Hongkong based dog breeders do not seem to support the idea of a shar pei bred to fight. The inferiority of the shar pei to the Bull terrier or Staffordshire Bull Terrier in terms of fighting is sometimes cited. And the instance of shar peis who are reputed to have won several matches against the Bull terriers are now considered as exceptions to the fact. All these are important evidence that support the argument of the shar pei not being a true fighting breed. Nevertheless, it is generally sure that the dog can fend for itself quite well against other aggressor dogs.
Before we end, it may help to talk a bit about the three classifications of shar pei according to coat: All shar pei are sure to benefit from dog training, but the horsecoat will need it the most through early socialization with children, strangers, and even animals. Without early training, the horse coat type is capable of maturing into an obstinate, strong-willed, and highly territorial dog that is at risk developing more temperament issues.
The brushcoat type is the second most important coat type, and it is capable of maturing into a robust, powerful dog. This alone is overwhelming reason for the dog to have early socialization and shar pei training! The brushcoat is not as interested in the physical interests of the horsecoat, and would rather spend the better portion of the day lazing indoors. In general, the brushcoat exhibits a strong will, stubbornness and territorial instincts to a lesser extent compared to other coat types.
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