Shar Pei Types
The blue Shar Pei is one of the rare colors when it comes to Shar Pei. To obtain a blue colored puppy takes a significant amount of breeding and careful planning. These dogs are great with children and have a wonderful temperament. Because they are a more rare color, expect to pay more for these cute adorable wrinkled dogs.
As this type of dog, breeders found the dogs’ fighting and protective skills to come out also as they would grow exceedingly protective of property and the family, loyal to those around when raised. Prized as agile hunters, the Shar Pei were soon known in the fighting rings not just because of their built, but also for their hunting qualities.
They were later used for things like fighting since the large amounts of excess skin and the prickly coat made it difficult for other dogs to keep a hold of. In 1973, the breed was introduced to the U.S. through a dog magazine, by a Hong Kong businessperson. It quickly grew in popularity and now has a registered foundation stock of more than 70,000 dogs.
Because of the breeds overwhelming popularity, it now has a registered foundation stock of over 70,000 animals. It is also recognized by the following organizations as a registered pure breed by the AKC, FCI, KCGB, CKC, UKC, NKC, ANKC, APRO, ACR and the NZKC. Each of these organizations has it’s own standards for the breed. However; all of them recognize the blue Shar Pei as a legitimate breed and color.
As with any pure bred animal there are a few things to look out for when it comes to the Shar Pei’s health. A good, reputable breeder will breed for health so these concerns should not pose a problem with your new pet. They are however, things to look out for. Some of the things to look out for are fevers. Shar Pei’s are prone to unexplained fevers as well as swollen hocks, which can be a sign of a serious medical condition. Some Shar Pei’s have issues with their skin due to hereditary weaknesses caused but excessive and unregulated breeding.
Even though breeders created them to be a work dog, whether as a fighter or guard dog, the blue Shar Pei has proven to be a beautiful all around dog that is perfect for adding to any family structure. Even as the blue Shar Pei are also becoming close to extinction.
They are a very active breed of dog so be sure you have either a yard to allow them to run around in, or you have the time to walk and play with them. Because of the excess skin and how it is lays on the dog, as well as the coat, these animals are more likely to suffer from the heat so plenty of shade and water needs to be available to them if they are outside.
They also do well as an outside dog. However, if you keep a Shar Pei outside then be sure to provide shade and plenty of water as these animals are subject to having problems with the heat. It is also a good idea because of their size that you make sure the complex or homeowners’ association if you are living in an apartment or if you are living in a planned community approves of this size dog. These are wonderful dogs and make a great addition on any family.
