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Ownership of any pet should start with a consideration of the health, behavioral problems and liabilities associated with the animal. This is especially true with the Shar Pei. Although Shar Pei allergies can present in a dramatic manner given the unique texture of their skin and hair, these conditions are by and large similar to other dogs with similar skins and breeding. For instance pugs and bulldogs have a similar nasal frame and skin texture.

As with all pet allergies, Shar Pei allergies are usually caused by something we do to them. Often allergic reactions result from a change of food or a change of shampoo. As owners we need to consider the results of our actions at all times and given that the Shar Pei is now a pure breed recognize that the pure breeds often exhibit less tolerance for change of all forms.

However, the Shar Pei was bred as a fighting dog in China, and it is interesting that the wrinkles of the skin may have been a defense mechanism initially. In fact the wrinkles result from an overabundance of a chemical known as mucin. This compound also most interestingly serves to assist in the healing of their wounds.

The Shar Pei even has a form of fever known as “swollen hock fever” that is episodic in nature and peculiar to them. Unfortunately it can be fatal. On the other hand there are some common Shar Pei allergies that are associated with their skin can simply be managed by frequent weekly bathing and the use of good grooming habits.

Routine care and pet maintenance problems such as these make the Shar Pei an expensive and high maintenance pet. Preventative home care is important for this reason.

It is unfortunate that such an unusual dog is hard to take care of in this manner given their tendency to exhibit certain health problems. A Shar Pei is clearly not your traditional pet. With a documented history going back hundreds of years in China they have largely been bred for their temperament and not for their robust health. Although Shar Peis can live to the age of fifteen most live for eight to twelve years.

Although the Shar Pei has some very well documented problems, all pets do as they are after all simply animals, lower in the food chain than homo-sapiens. Despite their aggressive behavior with a tendency to some unusual Shar Pei allergies and tolerance issues they are very lovable and friendly to those that they trust.

Furthermore, their mysterious origins appear to compensate for many of their shortcomings, and there is an obvious demand in today’s pet markets for their very unusual look. However, the need for training and the unusual nature of the health of this animal would nominally indicate that this is one pet that needs a truly committed dog owner and not a part-time pet lover.

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