The Shar Pei is an ancient dog breed that originated around 200 BC in China.
Shar Pei, also known as Sa Bì in Vietnamese transliteration, is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, believed to have existed and developed during the years 220 – 206 BC. Farmers used these dogs for hunting, herding livestock, guarding, and protection.
The Shar Pei, also known as Sa Bì.
The Shar Pei always impresses onlookers with its unique appearance. They have a body covered in “wrinkled” skin, from their face to their feet and tail, which looks quite amusing. Although they may appear somewhat plump due to their wrinkled skin, they are remarkably agile and lively, thanks to their sturdy build.
The Shar Pei has a flat mouth, a strong body with no excess skin, unlike other breeds with loose, wrinkled skin. Their deep-set eyes, drooping ears, and wrinkled skin give them a somewhat silly and lazy appearance, reminiscent of hippopotamuses. Overall, the Shar Pei may seem a bit melancholic, but in reality, they possess abundant energy.
From a young age, the Shar Pei’s skin is already wrinkled, creating a charming look. As they grow, the skin continues to develop, forming larger folds on their head, neck, and shoulders. Their tail is high, slender, and curves gently to one side of their back.
The Shar Pei has average vision and hearing.
If cared for in a good environment, the lifespan of a Shar Pei can reach 9 – 11 years. This is considered a relatively good lifespan for a medium-sized dog breed.
Throughout their development, Shar Peis have been bred for various purposes, such as guarding homes, herding livestock, or fighting against wild animals.
Few people know that this breed once faced extremely challenging periods, nearly being wiped out in their homeland. However, a few survived in Hong Kong and Taiwan, China, which helped preserve the breed from extinction. The introduction of the Shar Pei to the United States significantly increased their population and genetic diversity.
