HEALTH/TEMPERAMENT EXPECTATIONS:
The severity of health/temperament issues of any Shar-pei, bought or adopted, will vary according to breeder / evaluator knowledge and the adopter/buyer expectations and past experiences with the breed. Personal perspective and tolerance levels can also influence your outlook on a dog's potential. There's definitely no black and white decision guidelines to determine adoptability and/or compatibility with your family. What one person believes is a good dog, another may not. This is a very personal choice that must be made objectively as possible, for the dog and family's sake; they are not for everyone!
How would you describe your work schedule?
The average Shar-Pei is a glutton for your attention, and will usually create any disturbance they can think of to get it. The more intelligent the animal, the more mischievous they may seem. If you are away a lot, or have many chores at home, be prepared to battle wits with your pet. The more dominant, the more attention it usually requires.
What relationship do you expect from a dog?
Most Shar-Pei prefer a stable territory to purposefully dedicate themselves in protecting those people closest. These intentions make their relationship responsive and endearing to their owners, but if you have a large family, or one where people come and go at irregular hours, this may upset and cause tension, confusion, or unpredictable behaviors.
Does your family include children?
Children and dogs can make a great combination if you keep these things in mind. Consider the age of your child and the antics of a puppy. I couldn't recommend mixing babies and Shar-Pei puppies, because of their bouncy behavior and dominant attitude towards weaker beings. We have twins that have been raised with Shar-Pei, but it required constant supervision to avoid problems as toddlers and school aged children. Even as young adults, they still have to work on their pack leadership skills to successfully take charge of the dogs when we are away.
What social lifestyle do you maintain?
Chinese Shar-Pei were bred to be guard dogs and protectors of their territory. They can be raised to accept strangers, but it requires constant training to avoid relapse into natural behavior. Now I can't guarantee it will keep out a burglar, but it may scare your neighbors away from dropping over for an unexpected visit.
What do you consider expensive for owning or purchasing a dog?
Unfortunately, even the best breeders cannot guarantee perfect health, and you can expect to visit your vet for more than just your yearly checkups. Make sure you are financially stable and willing to afford proper care. It is vitally important to check the overall health of the pedigree, especially the parents. Find out when and why as many of the relatives have died, especially when it comes to renal amyloidosis or cancer. This will give you a better idea of the longevity of your Shar-pei line. When possible, ask for a veterinarian recommendation.
What happens to the dog when you go on vacation?
Vacations or summertime traveling are one of the major stumbling blocks for owners and their pets if they aren't prepared when travelling with their pet or don't plan for alternative care solutions when they don't. Shar-pei don't do well in the heat and will not be allowed to travel on airplanes during the extreme heat season.
What type of exercise will be available for your dog?
Whether it be daily walks, fenced yard or other containment protection, to allow the dog exercise without running away or avoid being approached by other animals or strangers when unsupervised. A well-controlled dog is vital when living in a suburban area, and a well-balanced dog requires daily exercise to remain healthy!
What type of veterinary care is available?
Unfortunately, not all regions of our country are populated with enough Chinese Shar-Pei to offer a veterinarian educational experiences on working with our breed. Plan ahead, you may need to look outside your general area. Don't expect your current vet to know the right information; many people have lost their puppies and adults due to inexperienced veterinarians.
What kind of obedience or handling classes are offered in your area?
You may be surprised to find out that there are no classes available, they will be farther away than planned, or they will be more expensive than planned. Don't neglect the needs of your pet--an untrained Shar-pei can be a threat to itself and your community!
What would you do if you could no longer keep your Shar-Pei?
Considering the type of devoted personality and relationship that a Chinese Shar-Pei offers, this is most important question towards your decision for purchase. If your intentions are impulsive, we beg you to think things through. Many of our rescued dogs were created by impulsive or uneducated purchases.