The Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient breed of dog that originates from China. The breed is known for its distinctive wrinkled skin and strangely colored blue-black tongue. Due to the breed originating in China, the breed's name is believed to be derived from the English spelling of the Cantonese equivalent 's? pèih, ' which translates to 'Sand Skin.' The name 'Sand Skin' is a clear reference to the breeds short, rough coat and wrinkled features. The Shar-Pei has dramatically more wrinkles during its puppyhood as it 'grows' into its excess skin. Despite their ancient history, the Shar-Pei was named one of the world's rarest breeds by 'Time' magazine and the 'Guinness Book of World Records' in the late 1970s. The breed's prickly skin was originally developed to help defend the dog against wild boar, as the Shar-Pei was originally used for hunting purposes. The breed was then used in dog fighting which is where its large amount of excess skin developed. The Shar-Pei's excess skin made it hard for other dogs to grab onto, and if they did manage to grab ahold on the Shar-Pei it still had room to maneuver inside its own skin! Shar-Pei's were known to completely twist around in their own skin to bite assailants back! In modern times the Shar-Pei has mainly been used as a guard dog and a companion dog. As a whole the breed makes very good family pets providing that they are properly socialized with children, strangers and other animals to combat their innate protective, territorial and potentially aggressive nature. However if the breed is properly socialized they are known to be incredibly loyal, fairly affectionate and occasionally playful. Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a Chinese Shar-Pei's basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices. This guide will give an in-depth explanation on training your Chinese Shar-Pei, raising your Chinese Shar-Pei from a puppy, grooming, health care and everything in between! "The Chinese Shar-Pei: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Chinese Shar-Pei," by Michael Stonewood is the perfect purchase or gift for a first time Chinese Shar-Pei owner. This guide includes sections on caring for a puppy, breeding, health care, training, the basic cost of owning a Chinese Shar-Pei and much more. This book is the second edition - the first edition was published by 'Dog Care Professionals.'