The Shar Pei Character
The Shar Pei is regal, aloof, dignified and essentially a very independent dog that is stand-offish to strangers. However, some Shar Pei love everyone!! Generalization as to temperament is difficult as each is an individual, molded by it's own heritage and environment, much as humans are.
In general the breed has proved itself to be a loving, devoted family dog. Shar Pei are often described as "people dogs", preferring human companionship to that of other dogs. Their quick intelligence may play a part in this. Perhaps they sense our own intelligence and prefer the inventiveness and creativity we bring to situations. Or maybe they just prefer their master's love and attention!
Most often the Shar Pei owner will find his dog by his side - wherever he may be. Shar Pei seem to be "in tune" with their owners - sometimes sensing our innermost thoughts. The breed is quite capable to use this gift to the point of manipulation!! With this in mind Shar Pei owners must be at least a little more intelligent than their dogs.
Once the proper hierarchy is established, there is no better canine companion. A mutual understanding matures into a loving relationship in which verbal communication seems unnecessary.
Those who have lived with and loved a Shar Pei know that they are indeed very special dogs. They are super-intelligent, intuitive and deserving of the opportunity to take their rightful place in the canine society.
One of the best qualities of the Shar Pei is that they are very easy to housetrain. By nature they are very clean and will prefer to "go" outside in a private place, leaving your garden and lawn "mine" free!
Shar Pei Dominance
Shar Pei are very dominant and protective and may get along only with other dogs who will not challenge their dominance. Females seem to be even more dominant than males and the ideal is to have one male and one female. Three or more dogs tend to gang up in fights. Like many fighting breeds Shar Pei lock their jaws making it very difficult to separate them if and when they fight.
Mixing Shar Pei with other breeds can be difficult and should only be done by owners that have a good knowledge of dominance, pack order and general canine behavior. It is of the utmost importance to socialize Shar Pei - not only with people, but also with other dog breeds. If socialization and training is neglected a Shar Pei may become over-protective of their owners and property.
I received a phone call from a gentleman recently who had just purchased a Shar Pei puppy. He took it to the vet for it's first vaccination and was told by the vet to take it back to the breeder as they were vicious dogs and not trustworthy around children. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but I don't think we should guess at a dog's disposition. Most Shar Pei are loyal family members and make excellent pets. I hope that I reassured the gentleman who called, that with early socialization and letting the dog know who the pack leaders are, he will have a faithful and loving companion for many years to come. My children walk both of my dogs and I trust my dogs explicitly with them.
Please do your research before purchasing any breed of dog. Or ask several different breeders for their advice, most will be happy to talk to you about the breeds that they love. If you require any information about Shar Pei, I will be happy to help if I can.
