Shar Pei Health

Shar Pei’s have a personality that is all their own just the same as
they have health problems all their own. A Shar Pei faces several
health problems due to the wrinkles in their skin such as ear
infections, skin problems and eye problems. The best way to avoid
health problems with your Shar Pei is to keep your regular appointments
with a veterinarian.

Keeping regular appointments when a veterinarian who is aware of the
problems specific to the Shar Pei breed is the best way to avoid health
problems with your dog.

Your veterinarian can give you an ear wash to use at least once a week
in order to keep your dogs ears clean. The ear wash is an important
part of keeping the earwax loose both inside the ear and further down
in the ear canal. It is also a good idea to place a special salve in
the ears at least once a month in order to prevent ear infections. If
you notice any signs of an ear infection it is important to get your
dog to a veterinarian right away for treatment. The key to keeping your
dog healthy is to get medical attention for any conditions such as ear
infections.

When your Shar Pei begins pawing at their eyes you know they have eye
problems. The Shar Pei can have problems with the lids rolling in
because of the wrinkles in their skin. Sometimes just the top or bottom
lids are affected but in some cases both the lids can be affected. As
soon as possible you want to correct this Shar Pei health problem with
an operation otherwise your Shar Pei can eventually go blind. For your
dog it feels the same as having an eyelash stuck in your eye and you
know how painful that can be.

Skin conditions are the most common Shar Pei health problems. Your dog
is actually rare compared to other Shar Pei’s if they don’t have skin
problems. Occasionally too much bathing can results in skin problems.
It is important that you rinse your Shar Pei very well after you bathe
them. You can use human Benedryl in order to help with the itching and
it won’t harm the dog.

Checking between the paws from time to time is another important part
of the Shar Pei health check. Shar Pei can sometimes get sore paws and
you will know this when it happens because your dog will start to
constantly lick their paws. Your veterinarian can recommend an
antibiotic salve, that won’t harm your dog in case they lick it. The
antibiotic will also help to get rid of the soreness between their paws.

The Shar Pei makes an excellent pet despite the numerous Shar Pei
health problems. If you get your Shar Pei from a reputable breeder you
have a better chance of avoiding breed specific health problems.
Although getting a Shar Pei from a puppy mill or an unknown source
could result in health problems.

It is important to carefully consider the puppy and the person you are
getting them from before taking a Shar Pei into your household. If you
have any concerns about your Shar Pei’s health then you should talk
with your veterinarian who is trained to handle breed specific problems.