Abyssinian
Psychogenic alopecia and dermatitis
Follicular dysplasia
Afghan Hound
Hypothyroidism
Airedale Terrier
Flank alopecia
Akita
Hypothyroidism
Pemphigus
Post-clipping alopecia
Sebaceous adenitis
Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) (more…)
The Chinese Shar-pei, famous for its wrinkles, has gone from the rarest dog breed listed by the Guinness Book of World Records to its current status of popularity. This breed is famous for its aloof temperament and its medical issues; still, most Shar-pei owners would not trade their breed for any less controversial one.
The following discussion is meant to assist people who are considering adoption of a Shar-pei. The Shar-pei is a unique animal with unique needs and may not be suited for the first time dog owner or for a family that requires a low maintenance dog. The Shar-pei is not a breed to adopt lightly; one must be prepared for an extra time commitment and even extra veterinary expenses. (more…)
BACKGROUND The Shar-Pei originated in China and has a history dating back 2000 years. Although the exact place of origin is unclear, statues indicate they came from somewhere in southern China, Tibet or Dah-Lel. The name Shar-Pei literally translates to mean sand skin. This is from the breed’s characteristic harsh coat. Shar-Pei were used as general utility dogs for herding and guarding. They were also known as tomb dogs, relating to the discovery in ancient tombs of 2000-year-old statues bearing their likeness. When China became a communist country, a tax was brought in that made the keeping of dogs a luxury and basically out of reach of the average farmer. In 1947 the tax was increased and breeding banned. This led to the Shar-Pei becoming an endangered breed and it was listed with the Guinness Book of Records in 1978 as the world’s rarest dog. The first registered Shar-Pei were imported into Australia in 1981 with the first litter in 1985.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN The average lifespan for a Shar-Pei is 10 to 12 years.
