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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.

Shar Pei problem behaviors are few, although many people mistakenly believe the dogs have a difficult personality, perhaps because of their dog-fighting origins and because of the myth that the Shar Pei descended from the Chow Chow, which can be a difficult and temperamental breed.

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 socialize their dogs at an early age, with other dogs, with cats and with children. Shar Pei behavior problems such as getting along with other dogs, cats and children can be avoided by exposing the dog to these influences when it is a young puppy. That being said, an adult Shar Pei can adapt to a family with other dogs, or cats or children, however more training may be needed, especially if the dog is expected to obey commands given by a child. Owners may consult dog training books for training ideas.

Generally speaking, the Shar Pei is an intelligent, easygoing breed. They are confident dogs that respect the leadership of a confident handler. The Shar Pei may refuse commands from children or other family members that the dog perceives to be below it in the pecking order of the family, but these problems can be overcome with appropriate training and reinforcement. Some dog breeds are hard to housebreak and have problems even in adulthood. Shar Pei dogs are very clean. Once a puppy is old enough to control its bodily functions, it is 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 behavior, can almost always be overcome with patient, consistent discipline. Dog training books are highly recommended as aids for training the Shar Pei.

Shar Peis have also been known to act out mischievously, stealing food from kitchen counters. Owners can deal with this behavior by denying the dog access to the kitchen unless the owner is present.

Most dogs need regular exercise, and the Shar Pei is no exception. The breed is quite active indoors, so it does not need the exhausting romps and fetch sessions that some high-strung dogs and retrievers need. In fact, the Shar Pei have a tendency to overheat, and owners should be careful not to exhaust the dogs while playing outdoors, especially in hot weather. Considering the Shar Pei’s origins as a dog forced to fight to the death, and rising from near-extinction, the Shar Pei’s survival and emergence as a faithful companion and family pet is indeed remarkable.