Shar Peis are survivors. DNA testing has confirmed that they are one of the world’s oldest known breeds of dog, originating in the Guangdong Province of China. Sadly, Shar Pei dogs were originally bred for dog fighting, with their loose skin and small ears making them difficult for other dogs to grasp. At one point Shar Pei were declared the most rare dog in the world, but the breed survived and is no longer considered such a rarity.

These sweet, lovable dogs are thought to have descended from the Chinese Chow Chow, although there is scant evidence to support this theory. Shar Pei training enabled the dogs to work on farms as watchdogs and guardians, protecting livestock from predators.

Shar Pei problem behaviors, when they occur, are usually the fault of an owner who misunderstands the breed. The Shar Pei can look intimidating because of the frowning expression on its face, but most Shar Pei are very friendly dogs who are loyal to their handlers. Dog training books can be an aid for owners who are not sure how to train the Shar Pei.

Shar Pei owners should realize the importance of socializing the dogs at an early age. Likewise, Shar Pei behavior problems getting along with cats and children can be avoided by exposing the dog to cats and children when it is a young puppy. That is not to say that an adult dog cannot adapt to a family with cats and children; however, more training may be needed to get the dog to obey commands from a child. Dog training books contain tips on how to socialize an adult dog.

Shar Peis are generally a calm, easygoing breed. They are confident dogs that need the leadership of a self-assured handler. The Shar Pei may refuse commands from children or other family members whom the dog perceives as being lower in the pecking order of the pack, but these problems can be overcome with training and reinforcement.

Some dog breeds can be hard to housebreak and have housebreaking problems even into adulthood. Shar Peis, however, are very clean and, once they are old enough to control their bodily functions, are extremely unlikely to urinate or defecate inside the house. Some Shar Pei owners complain that their dogs bark to excess, no doubt because of the breed’s origin as a vigilant watchdog and guardian. Shar Pei dogs have a tendency to bark at strangers who approach or newcomers who enter the family home. These problems, like other Shar Pei problem behaviors, can almost always be overcome with patient, consistent discipline. Dog training books are highly recommended as aids for training the Shar Pei.

The breed has been known to steal food left out on kitchen tables and countertops. This mischievous behavior can usually be resolved if the owner controls access to the kitchen, allowing the Shar Pei in the kitchen only when the owner is there to supervise.

All dogs, the Shar Pei included, need regular exercise but Shar Pei dogs have a tendency to overheat. Owners must watch the dogs carefully to avoid overheating during exercise, especially in hot weather.

Looking back at the Shar Pei’s origins as a fighting dog, then its comeback from near extinction, the breed’s survival and endurance to become the faithful companion and family pet that it is today is remarkable and admirable.

Melissa Coleman owns three Shar Pei rescue dogs, and has helped the dogs overcome a variety of Shar Pei problem behaviors. Socializing a Shar Pei is an essential part of Shar Pei training. Dog training books contain helpful advice for dealing with Shar Pei problem behaviors.