Why Shar Pei Dogs Have So Many Wrinkles

There are very few people who dislike the Shar Pei dog breed. Their plush face and wrinkles give them their characteristic look that delights many people. Today we are going to talk about why they have wrinkles. What caused this breed to be so wrinkly?

Knowing the reason why this breed is wrinkly is for more than learning random knowledge. It can also help you take care of their hygiene and health. However, before that, let’s learn a little about these adorable animals.

Interesting facts about the Shar Pei

The Shar Pei dog breed originated from China and they appear to have existed since 206 A.D. First, they were used as a guard dog for tombs. Later on, they were used as fighting dogs. Finally, they were turned into pets.

In the 60s, the communist regime that ruled China opposed pets. They said that it was an unnecessary waste of money and food. As a result, this precious breed was on the verge of extinction. It’s a good thing it didn’t work out! They would have deprived us of enjoying their beauty.

Personality

They are very calm, calm, and lovable They don’t bark too much, so if you live in a building with audio sensitive neighbors, a Shar Pei won’t be a nuisance to them.

They are very independent and they are a dog for a single owner. So, other members of the family shouldn’t expect that they’d be treated equally.

It’s been called the cat of the dog world because they behave more like cats than dogs. They even have their own, cat-like way to play. This breed likes to trap things by pawing them. Do they think they’re tigers?

Their independent personality makes them indifferent to other people. And they are a little stubborn when it comes time to obeying and following directions. Therefore. you need to socialize them when they’re puppies and they will need special treatment without ever using punishment.

The reasons for the Shar Pei’s wrinkles

According to the Autonomous University of Barcelona, the reason why Shar Pei dogs have wrinkles is due to a hereditary disease called mucinosis. This causes a buildup of hyaluronic acid. As a result, they develop the beautiful skin formations this breed is known for.

Hyaluronic acid is in charge of filling in the spaces between a tissue’s cells. The large buildups of this acid’s enzymes make the Shar Pei’s skin increase in size and create those beautiful wrinkles that make this breed so adorable.

However, the Shar Pei’s wrinkles aren’t just original and beautiful. Unfortunately, they also cause problems.

Problems caused by the Shar Pei’s wrinkles

You shouldn’t forget that these wrinkles are the result of a disease. Even though they won’t kill the animal, they can make them suffer from a list of complications that you should be prepared for.

Mucinosis can cause your Shar Pei to have these problems:

• Fever
• Infections
• Allergies

Shar Pei dogs don’t need special care. However, when you wash them, it’s important to pay close attention to the folds in their skin in order to prevent infections that are caused by dirt building up.

If they have any allergies, you should get them treated properly by a vet. In order to do so, you’ll have to identify what causes their allergies and keep them away from that allergen. Shar Pei dogs are prone to these diseases. So, it’s important to keep an eye on them.

If you’re thinking about adopting a Shar Pei, stop thinking about it. They are a precious, loving dog that will show themselves to be a faithful friend at all times.