Some generalizations, however, I can make comfortably: Most Shar-Pei are extremely intelligent. Like other intelligent breeds, they can be taught many things, but they also have a superior understanding of their world and the people in it. I can often communicate with my dogs without saying a word. Language only reinforces what you want them to do or how you would like for them to react.
Chinese Shar-Pei are “people dogs.” This I can say unequivocally! They soon become very loyal family members and usually form a strong bond to one member of the family. Wherever you are, that is where your Shar-Pei wants to be. I would be willing to bet that the majority of family Shar-Pei sleep on the bed with “their person.” Mine even wait outside the bathroom door. Other breeds (such as the hunting or working dogs) are happiest when in the company of their own species. The Shar-Pei’s daily relationships with other household pets may be friendly and she may enjoy all the doggie games, but when a person enters the scene, particularly “her person,” the focus of the Shar Pei’s attention changes immediately. Perhaps this intense fondness for people is related to pack instinct and deference to the pack leader. I prefer to think they sense our intelligence and the inventiveness and creativity we bring to situations.
Shar-Pei very quickly figures out what pleases their owners and what does not, which brings up another aspect of their intelligence. If you are to own a Shar-Pei, you must be at least as intelligent and intuitive as your dog. Some Shar-Pei can become very manipulative, and the owner may find him- or herself reinforcing negative or undesirable behavior. For instance, if you are neglecting your dog and not spending enough time with him, you may find that he is doing naughty things to get your attention, much like a child would do.
With Shar-Pei, you must always be the “pack leaden” You must always be the boss! Your relationship with your dog will be a much healthier one. If you are experiencing behavior problems with your Shar-Pei that are beyond your control, seek out a competent trainer or behaviorist before it gets out of hand. Never allow your dog the least bit of aggressive behavior toward you, any member of your family or guests in your home. Keep your dog on a leash and under control when away from your home.
Leaving Your Shar-Pei Home Alone
Because Shar-Pei are “people dogs” and want to be near people, this can pose a problem if you have to work and leave your dog home alone. I personally believe that it is unfair to have a dog who spends eight or more hours alone each day. Whether you have only one Shar-Pei or several, being alone for long periods may bring out some of the less desirable traits for which they were bred. The diligent “guard” may tend to overguard the house, constantly barking, tearing up mail that comes through a door slot, even chasing imaginary noises or shadows. Getting a companion dog may work, but only if their personalities are compatible; otherwise a serious dogfight may occur when you are not home to break it up. Some owners resort to crating their dogs, but once again, this is hardly humane for extended time periods. So much depends on the individual dog, his temperament and how secure and confident he is. On the other hand, I know quite a few Shar-Pei owners whose Shar-Pei manage quite well when the owners are not home. If your Shar-Pei is to be left alone, you must be especially careful about the dog you choose.
Activity Level
Some Shar-Pei are very active while others are content to spend most of their day snoozing on the couch (if you allow it). Most seem to require little exercise, which makes them good candidates for apartment living. As with any animal, however, frequent exercise will make for a healthier dog.
Cleanliness
Shar-Pei are very clean animals, almost catlike, and are very easily housebroken. The healthy Shar-Pei requires very little grooming except when she is shedding, during which time her short, coarse hair will stick to everything!
Because their muzzles are so large, some Shar-Pei can be very messy eaters and, after a meal, your dog may have food all over her muzzle. If you have more than one Shar-Pei, you will notice that they delight in cleaning each other’s muzzles after eating. This is a real ritual in our house. If you only have one dog, you may want to keep her own washcloth handy to clean her muzzle after she has eaten.
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