The Shar Pei is an ancient breed known for its distinctive wrinkled skin, “hippopotamus” face, and loyal, affectionate nature. These dogs have earned a unique place in the hearts of dog lovers, thanks to their calm demeanor and unique appearance. Among the different types of Shar Pei, the “Meat Mouth Shar Pei” stands out due to its distinctive features, especially its fleshy, overhanging skin.
In this article, we will explore what makes the Meat Mouth Shar Pei so unique. We will discuss its origins, physical traits, temperament, health considerations, and whether this variation is a different breed or simply a specific feature of the Shar Pei. Let’s dive into the world of the Meat Mouth Shar Pei and understand what makes it an intriguing and beloved dog.
The Shar Pei: A Brief Overview
The History of the Shar Pei
The Shar Pei is an ancient Chinese breed, with roots tracing back over 2,000 years. The breed was originally bred for various roles, including hunting, guarding, and even fighting. Its wrinkled skin was designed to protect it in fights by allowing the dog to move and twist freely without exposing vital areas. Shar Peis were historically used by Chinese peasants to guard their homes and livestock, and their unique appearance was believed to be a result of their purpose.
In the 20th century, the Shar Pei almost went extinct, but thanks to the efforts of breeders and enthusiasts, the breed made a strong comeback. Today, the Shar Pei is known worldwide and is cherished for its affectionate nature and unique look.
Distinct Features of the Shar Pei
One of the most distinguishing features of the Shar Pei is its deeply wrinkled skin, which covers most of its body. These wrinkles are especially visible when the dog is a puppy. Shar Peis are also known for their short, bristly coat, which gives them a distinctive sandpaper-like feel. The breed’s face is broad and flat, with small, triangular ears and a characteristic “hippopotamus” nose.
The breed also has a calm, independent personality. While they are loyal and affectionate to their families, they can be aloof with strangers. Despite their sometimes intimidating appearance, Shar Peis are generally not aggressive, though early socialization and training are important for developing their well-rounded personality.
What Is a Meat Mouth Shar Pei?
The Concept of a Meat Mouth
The term “Meat Mouth” refers to a specific variation of the Shar Pei that has an abundance of loose, fleshy skin around its mouth. This gives the dog a “meaty” appearance around the cheeks and muzzle, as the excess skin drapes down, creating a distinct look. The Meat Mouth Shar Pei is not a separate breed but rather a specific feature of the Shar Pei breed, sometimes referred to as a physical trait or an “extension” of the breed’s well-known wrinkled skin.
The meat around the mouth may hang loosely or drape downward in folds, sometimes extending as far as the dog’s neck. This excess skin is more pronounced in some Shar Peis than in others and contributes to their unique appearance. The Meat Mouth is just one of the ways in which Shar Peis can vary in their physical traits.
Why Does the Meat Mouth Happen?
The excess skin around the mouth of a Meat Mouth Shar Pei is a result of genetics. As with other physical features in the Shar Pei, such as the body’s overall wrinkling, the meatiness of the mouth comes from the skin’s natural folds. However, in the case of the Meat Mouth Shar Pei, this feature is more pronounced.
Some experts believe that the pronounced mouth folds of the Meat Mouth Shar Pei were originally bred for practical reasons. The excess skin could have protected the dog’s face during fights or scuffles, serving as a safeguard against bites or damage to more vital areas. As the Shar Pei evolved, the feature became more aesthetic, although it is still an important part of the breed’s appearance.
How Does a Meat Mouth Shar Pei Differ from Other Shar Peis?
While all Shar Peis have a certain degree of wrinkling, not all of them develop the pronounced “meat” around the mouth. The more classic version of the breed may have smaller, tighter skin around the muzzle, with fewer folds. In contrast, the Meat Mouth Shar Pei’s folds around the mouth are larger and more defined.
To put it simply, the Meat Mouth Shar Pei is a variation of the standard Shar Pei, specifically characterized by the excess skin around its muzzle and mouth. These dogs may have a more dramatic look with looser folds compared to other Shar Peis, which might have tighter or more controlled wrinkles.
Physical Characteristics of the Meat Mouth Shar Pei
Size and Build
The Meat Mouth Shar Pei shares the same physical build as the standard Shar Pei, including a compact, muscular body and short, sturdy legs. This breed is classified as a medium-sized dog, standing around 18 to 20 inches tall and weighing between 45 and 60 pounds.
The Meat Mouth variation does not change the dog’s overall size or body structure. What sets it apart is the increased volume of loose skin around the mouth, which is more noticeable in these dogs.
Coat and Color
The Meat Mouth Shar Pei, like other Shar Peis, has a short, bristly coat that feels rough or sandpapery to the touch. This coat comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, blue, black, and red. The wrinkles on the face and body are what give the Shar Pei its signature look, and these wrinkles are especially visible in puppies.
The loose skin around the mouth in a Meat Mouth Shar Pei does not impact the breed’s coat or texture. These dogs have the same short coat that requires regular care and grooming.
Facial Features
The most prominent feature of the Meat Mouth Shar Pei is its face. These dogs have the classic Shar Pei “hippopotamus” face, with a broad, flat nose and small, triangular ears. The folds around the face are much more exaggerated in the Meat Mouth Shar Pei, with excess skin hanging down around the mouth and jawline.
These folds give the Meat Mouth Shar Pei a distinctive look, with the skin sometimes covering the dog’s lower jaw and even reaching toward its neck. The loose skin on the face is what sets the Meat Mouth apart from the standard Shar Pei, which has smaller, tighter wrinkles around the muzzle.
Temperament and Personality
Affectionate and Loyal
Like other Shar Peis, the Meat Mouth Shar Pei is known for being an affectionate and loyal companion. These dogs are generally calm and independent, making them good pets for families and individuals alike. While they may be reserved with strangers, they form strong bonds with their families and enjoy spending time with them.
The Meat Mouth Shar Pei, despite its unusual appearance, has a similar temperament to other Shar Peis. It is not an overly energetic dog but enjoys moderate exercise and regular playtime. These dogs are typically calm and relaxed, making them well-suited for apartment living or homes with smaller yards.
Independent and Stubborn
Shar Peis, including the Meat Mouth variation, are known for their independent nature. This can sometimes make training a challenge, as these dogs may be a bit stubborn. Early socialization and consistent, positive reinforcement training are important to ensure that your Shar Pei develops into a well-behaved and confident dog.
While they can be aloof with strangers, Shar Peis are usually good with other pets and children, especially if they are socialized from a young age. They tend to be quiet dogs, often not barking unless they feel it is necessary.
Low-Maintenance Companion
The Meat Mouth Shar Pei is relatively low-maintenance in terms of exercise and grooming needs. While they do require regular cleaning of their skin folds to prevent infections, they do not need as much attention as more active breeds. Their calm demeanor makes them great companions for people who prefer a dog that is not overly demanding but still affectionate.
Health Considerations for Meat Mouth Shar Peis
Common Health Issues in Shar Peis
Like all Shar Peis, the Meat Mouth variation is prone to certain health issues. These include:
Respiratory Issues: Shar Peis are brachycephalic, meaning they have a short, flat face that can cause breathing difficulties. These dogs may suffer from brachycephalic syndrome, which can make breathing difficult, especially during exercise or in hot weather.
Skin Infections: The wrinkles of a Shar Pei, particularly the loose folds around the mouth, can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to skin infections if not properly cared for. Regular cleaning of the skin folds is essential.
Entropion: This is a condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing irritation and discomfort. It is common in Shar Peis and may require surgical intervention to correct.
Hip Dysplasia: As with many medium to large-sized breeds, Shar Peis can develop hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
Health Risks of the Meat Mouth
The extra skin around the mouth of the Meat Mouth Shar Pei does not inherently cause additional health issues. However, it may exacerbate existing conditions, particularly skin problems. The folds around the mouth require diligent care to ensure that they do not become infected or irritated. In some cases, the extra skin can make it harder to keep the dog’s face clean, which may increase the risk of developing dermatological issues.
Regular Care and Attention
Maintaining the health of a Meat Mouth Shar Pei requires regular cleaning of the folds around the face. This involves gently wiping the skin with a soft cloth and ensuring that the folds are completely dry to prevent infections. Additionally, like all dogs, the Meat Mouth Shar Pei should receive regular veterinary check-ups to monitor for common health problems such as hip dysplasia or respiratory issues.
Conclusion
The Meat Mouth Shar Pei is a fascinating variation of the standard Shar Pei, characterized by the excess skin around its face and mouth. While not a separate breed, the Meat Mouth is a distinctive feature that sets some Shar Peis apart from others. These dogs share the same gentle, loyal temperament of the breed, but with the added uniqueness of their dramatic facial folds.
If you are considering adopting a Meat Mouth Shar Pei, it is important to be aware of the breed’s potential health issues, particularly concerning their skin and respiratory health. Regular care, including cleaning the folds around the face, is crucial for keeping these dogs healthy and happy.
Whether you choose a standard Shar Pei or a Meat Mouth Shar Pei, this breed makes a wonderful companion for the right owner. Their calm, affectionate nature and unique appearance make them stand out as one of the most interesting dog breeds available today.