5 Common Chinese Shar-Pei Health Concerns

These strong furry friends make excellent companions, though they can be standoffish towards those they don’t know. 

However, Shar-Peis that are properly socialized make amazing pets that will be endlessly loyal to those they love. These distinguished dogs have plenty to offer to the right home. Before bringing home one of these best buddies, it’s important to understand the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Chinese Shar-Pei health concerns so that you can be a prepared pooch parent. 

Hypothyroidism

Chinese Shar-Pei pups are unfortunately subject to suffer from hypothyroidism, which is caused by the underproduction of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland regulates a dog’s metabolism, so your pooch could experience a wide range of symptoms under this condition. You may notice changes in your dog’s appetite or thirst, hair loss, sudden cold intolerance, or lethargy.

Hypothyroidism is diagnosed through blood screening. Affected dogs are prescribed a hormone replacement medication that they’ll likely take for the rest of their lives. Thankfully, most dogs are able to live relatively unchanged lives once they’ve adopted medication. 

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is caused by the improper alignment of the kneecaps and is often a hereditary condition. Affected dogs may struggle with putting weight on the affected knees as the condition can be quite painful. Depending on the severity of your dog’s condition, treatment is possible through surgical intervention. Note that dogs are equally likely to be affected in one or both knees. 

Pyoderma

It’s no surprise that Chinese Shar-Pei pups are subject to a wide range of skin conditions including pyoderma, or a bacterial skin infection. These infections look similar to pimples and humans but can also present themselves as dry or flaky skin. Pyoderma occurs due to bacteria overgrowth on top of broken skin. 

Luckily, it is easily treatable with the help of prescribed antibiotics from your best buddy’s veterinarian. Note that bacteria easily builds in the folds on your Shar-Pei’s skin, so you’ll want to make sure you keep your canine clean and keep it free from excess moisture. 

Hip Dysplasia 

The Chinese Shar-Pei is one of the many dogs that is prone to having canine hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when a dog’s hip socket is misaligned with the joint. Instead of fitting properly into the socket, the two parts rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation for your furry friend. 

You may notice your dog struggling to put weight on one or both hind legs, or having trouble going about his daily activities. Thankfully, this condition can be corrected through surgical intervention. In some cases, hip dysplasia can be corrected through physical therapy or managed with supplements and prescribed medication for your pooch. 

Shar-Pei Fever

Shar-Pei Fever is a condition specific to the breed that unfortunately affects 25% of Shar-Pei pooches. This hereditary condition causes dogs to experience regular episodes of inflammation and fever without a clear cause. You may notice your pooch acting lethargic or suffering from vomiting or diarrhea. 

Unfortunately, this condition can’t necessarily be cured. Luckily, most recurrent fevers are fairly manageable. The condition can develop into chronic kidney disease, but for many Shar-Peis the diagnosis acts as a mere occasional sickness. 

Just like any other breed, Chinese Shar-Pei pups are prone to their own set of health issues. That being said, understanding these issues can help you serve as a more equipped pet owner. Enjoy welcoming home one of these canine cuties! 

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