The Shar Pei breed originated in China around 200 B.C. and it easily recognized by their short ears and wrinkled face. Originally they were bred as farm dogs but then began to be used as fighting dogs. Although Shar Pei puppies require consistent training they are bright and willful. The Shar Pei is extremely loyal to their family while also being aloof with strangers.

If you want to add a Shar Pei to your household then it is important that you choose the right Shar Pei puppy. The first thing you must do when considering a Shar Pei puppy is to make sure they are the right breed for your household. The Shar Pei is a good option for those who want a watchdog since they are standoffish with strangers while being protective and loyal to their family.

The breed is also a good choice for those with children or cats since the Shar Pei does well with both as long as it is socialized from an early age. Just always remember that the Shar Pei is aggressive around other dogs.

A Shar Pei puppy may not be right for you if you are soft-spoken since Shar Pei puppies require firm and consistent training. The Shar Pei breed is stubborn and independent which means they will often not heed commands of a soft-spoken person. A Shar Pei will do fine if kept in an apartment or house but they shouldn't be outside in weather extremes, particularly heat.

You also want to consider some of the health conditions that are specific to Shar Pei puppies. A few of the more serious conditions include entropion, familial Shar Pei fever, ear problems and allergies. Some dogs with familial Shar Pei will develop anyloidosis, which can eventually cause kidney failure. You should ask the person who you are getting your Shar Pei puppy from whether or not they have been screened for health problems specific to the breed. If not then you may soon see expensive medical bills and decrease your dog's quality of life.

You should consider your Shar Pei breeder just as carefully as you consider the Shar Pei puppies. Ask the breeder if they are members of breed clubs, specialty clubs or obedience clubs. Be sure to check with the clubs after you have received the references from the breeder. If you don't check you will run the risk of getting stuck with a breeder that is running a puppy mill. Going with a reputable breeder means the person has carefully screened their dogs for all health problems before starting breeding.

You should be prepared for how your dog will turn out before you choose a Shar Pei puppy. The Shar Pei puppy will eventually grow to be about eighteen to twenty inches tall and have a weight ranging between forty and fifty-five pounds at the time they reach maturity. Typically Shar Pei's will live about ten years.

A Shar Pei will usually live about ten years. For a pure bred Shar Pei from a reputable breeder you will likely pay about three hundred to five hundred dollars. After carefully considering these things you will know whether or not a Shar Pei puppy is right for your household.