The Shar Pei is a unique and fascinating breed, known for its wrinkled skin, distinctive “hippopotamus” head, and calm demeanor. Despite their charming and lovable appearance, many veterinarians have concerns about this breed’s health. These concerns are not rooted in dislike of the breed, but rather in the specific health challenges that Shar Peis face due to their physical characteristics and genetic predispositions. In this article, we will explore why vets may have reservations about the Shar Pei and why they need extra care and attention when it comes to their health and well-being.
Understanding the Shar Pei’s Unique Physical Characteristics
The Shar Pei is one of the most recognizable dog breeds due to its wrinkled skin and “hippopotamus” face. These physical features are a result of a genetic mutation that causes excessive skin folds. While these folds are part of the breed’s charm, they also come with a range of health issues that veterinarians are wary of.
Excessive Skin Folds
The Shar Pei’s most distinctive feature is its deep skin folds, particularly around the face and neck. These folds may look cute, but they can be a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. The skin folds can trap moisture, dirt, and food particles, leading to infections. This makes the Shar Pei prone to dermatological issues, including pyoderma (a skin infection), hot spots, and other skin irritations.
Infection Risk: The folds can easily become irritated and infected if not cleaned and dried properly. These infections can lead to discomfort for the dog and frequent vet visits.
Moisture Retention: The folds trap moisture, making the skin more susceptible to fungal and bacterial growth. This is one reason why vets may have reservations about owning or caring for a Shar Pei.
Breathing Difficulties
Shar Peis are considered a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short, flattened faces. While this gives them their signature look, it also comes with several health risks. Brachycephalic dogs often have narrower airways, which can cause difficulty breathing, especially during physical exertion or in hot weather.
Respiratory Issues: Brachycephalic dogs are prone to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition can cause snoring, wheezing, and in more severe cases, difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in stressful situations.
Overheating: Due to their compromised breathing, Shar Peis may struggle to regulate their body temperature in hot or humid conditions. They are more likely to overheat, which can lead to heatstroke if not properly monitored.
Health Problems Common in Shar Peis
Beyond their unique physical features, Shar Peis are also prone to several serious health conditions. These conditions are a primary reason why vets may be concerned about the breed. Many of these issues are genetic, meaning they are inherent to the breed and can be difficult to prevent.
Hip Dysplasia
Like many other large and medium-sized breeds, Shar Peis are prone to hip dysplasia. This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability and pain. Over time, hip dysplasia can result in arthritis and other joint problems, making it difficult for the dog to walk or move comfortably.
Pain and Stiffness: Dogs with hip dysplasia often exhibit signs of pain, such as limping or difficulty standing up. In severe cases, surgery may be required to alleviate the pain and restore mobility.
Progressive Condition: Hip dysplasia tends to worsen with age, which can lead to a reduced quality of life for the dog if not properly managed.
Entropion (Eye Problems)
Entropion is another common condition in Shar Peis, where the eyelids roll inward, causing the lashes to rub against the eyeball. This can lead to irritation, pain, and potential vision loss if left untreated.
Eye Irritation: The constant irritation from the eyelashes rubbing against the eyes can cause redness, excessive tearing, and discomfort. In severe cases, it may result in corneal ulcers or even permanent vision damage.
Surgical Treatment: Entropion is usually treated with surgery to correct the eyelid position and prevent further damage to the eyes. This can be a costly and invasive procedure, which can be a concern for some Shar Pei owners.
Skin Infections (Pyoderma)
Shar Peis are prone to skin infections due to their excess skin folds. These infections can develop quickly and cause significant discomfort for the dog.
Infection Treatment: Treatment for pyoderma typically involves antibiotics, antifungal medications, and regular cleaning of the affected areas. In some cases, the skin folds may need to be surgically altered to prevent future infections.
Preventive Care: Regular cleaning and drying of the skin folds are essential for preventing skin infections. However, even with proper care, some Shar Peis may still develop recurrent skin issues.
Shar Pei Fever
Shar Pei fever is a rare but potentially serious condition that affects some members of the breed. It is an inherited disorder characterized by sudden bouts of fever, joint pain, and swelling.
Inflammation and Pain: The condition causes inflammation in the joints, leading to lameness and discomfort. It may also cause high fevers, which can be dangerous if not treated promptly.
Genetic Component: Shar Pei fever is linked to a genetic mutation in the breed. Unfortunately, there is no cure, but symptoms can be managed with medication and regular veterinary care.
Kidney Issues
Some Shar Peis are predisposed to kidney problems, particularly a condition known as renal amyloidosis. This condition occurs when abnormal protein deposits build up in the kidneys, impairing their function.
Signs of Kidney Problems: Dogs with renal amyloidosis may experience weight loss, increased thirst, and frequent urination. If left untreated, kidney failure can occur, which can be fatal.
Treatment and Management: Early detection is key for managing kidney disease. Regular vet check-ups, blood tests, and urine tests are essential to monitor kidney function.
The Shar Pei’s Temperament and Care Needs
While many of the health issues associated with Shar Peis are concerning, it’s important to note that they are generally loving, loyal, and gentle dogs. They are often described as “laid-back” and enjoy spending time with their families. However, the combination of their health challenges and their unique care requirements can be demanding for both pet owners and veterinarians.
Temperament
Shar Peis are known for their calm and independent nature. They are often described as “cat-like” in their demeanor, as they tend to be reserved and enjoy spending time alone. They are not overly demanding or high-energy dogs, which makes them suitable for owners who have a more relaxed lifestyle.
However, their aloofness can sometimes make training challenging, as they may not always be as eager to please as other breeds. This can lead to frustration for owners who are trying to train their dog or address behavioral issues.
Training Challenges
Training a Shar Pei can be challenging, especially when it comes to socialization. They can be wary of strangers and may be aggressive towards other dogs, particularly if they have not been properly socialized from a young age. Early and consistent training is important to help them develop good manners and become well-behaved pets.
Shar Peis also tend to be stubborn, which can make training a longer process. Positive reinforcement and patience are key when working with this breed.
Grooming Needs
Despite their short coat, Shar Peis require regular grooming to maintain their skin health. Their deep skin folds must be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent infections. This can be time-consuming and requires diligence from owners.
Additionally, regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are necessary to maintain overall health. Some owners may find the grooming needs of a Shar Pei to be a bit overwhelming, especially when combined with the breed’s other health concerns.
Conclusion:
Vets don’t “dislike” Shar Peis, but they do have valid concerns about the breed due to its genetic predispositions and unique physical characteristics. Shar Peis are prone to several health issues, including skin infections, hip dysplasia, breathing difficulties, eye problems, and more. These conditions often require ongoing care, which can be both costly and time-consuming for owners.
Furthermore, the Shar Pei’s independent nature and grooming needs can be challenging for owners who are not prepared for the level of care the breed requires. While Shar Peis can make excellent companions for the right owner, potential pet parents should be aware of the health risks and be committed to providing the necessary care and attention.
In the end, owning a Shar Pei requires a great deal of responsibility, and prospective owners should be fully prepared for the challenges that come with this unique breed. Regular veterinary visits, proper grooming, and a proactive approach to health care are essential to ensuring that your Shar Pei remains healthy and happy throughout its life.