If you’re a proud owner of a delightful Shar-Pei, or considering adding one to your home, you’re definitely curious about their dietary preferences. Not many people know that Shar-Pei, also known as Chinese Shar-Pei, is one of the most ancient canine breeds, tracing their ancestry back to China. Interestingly, their original diet consisted mainly of rice, vegetables and small amounts of fish and wild game.
Now, while you won’t be preparing traditional Chinese meals for your Shar-Pei, knowing their roots helps map out what kind of diet works best for them today. Shar-Peis are unique, both in their appearance – with their wrinkles, “hippopotamus” face and blue-black tongues – and their dietary needs. They’re more prone than other breeds to food sensitivities and allergies, which often manifest in skin ailments. This means that the selection of food is absolutely crucial for their overall health and happiness.
Shar-Peis usually love meat, a recurring theme among dogs. Hearty proteins such as chicken, beef, and turkey make the top of the list. Your pooch will most likely go tail-waggingly nuts for tender meaty morsels! However, it’s essential to remember that their proteins should be lean. Fatty meats can lead to either pancreatitis or obesity, both conditions you definitely want to avoid. You’d be surprised at how quickly a Shar-Pei can pack on pounds!
But proteins aren’t all they require. Just like us, they need a balanced diet, which incorporates fruits and vegetables. Non-citrus fruits such as apples, bananas, and blueberries are excellent and healthy treats. They’re packed with essential vitamins and fiber, nurturing their overall health. Veggies like carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes can also be served and they provide valuable nutrients, making your Shar-Pei’s meal more well-rounded. Be sure to cook vegetables to make them easily digestible by your Shar Pei.
Grains are often highly disputed in the dog food world. Should you serve them or not? Like some Asian dog breeds, Shar-Peis are known to tolerate rice pretty well. It’s a good source of carbohydrates and is easily digestible, especially if it’s cooked well. Barley and millet are other grains that may quench their ancestral cravings without triggering allergies.
What about commercial dog food? Is it a good choice? A plethora of dog foods available in the market range from low quality to premium. Your goal should be to find premium dog food that doesn’t contain fillers or artificial additives, as Shar-Peis may react adversely. Look for food that lists a specific type of meat as the first ingredient, followed ideally by fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid foods that list meat by-product, wheat, corn, or unnamed meat as main ingredients.
Variety, the spice of life, is something your Shar-Pei will also appreciate. They often thrive on a varied diet. Cycling different types of protein sources, whether it’s chicken, fish, beef, turkey, or pork, will keep them interested in their meals. Sprucing up kibble with a bit of cooked meat or a few fruits and veggies can work wonders.
Do Shar-Peis like treats? The answer is a resounding YES! Almost all dogs are suckers for treats. It’s crucial to remember that treats should make up no more than 10% of your Shar-Pei’s daily caloric intake. Look for healthy options, like lean meat treats, dental chews, or even agility biscuits. But bear in mind, a Shar-Pei’s favorite human is often the one who gives them their favorite treats!
Given their sensitive disposition, it’s quite helpful to keep a food diary for your Shar-Pei. Every time you introduce a new food, jot down any changes, be it good or bad, in their behavior, appearance, or bowel movements. This way, you can quickly identify and eliminate any ingredients they may be allergic to.
Feeding a Shar-Pei isn’t rocket science, but it does require a dash of attention and a dollop of love. From hero proteins to fairytale fruits and veggies, every ingredient plays a significant role in your Shar-Pei’s health and well-being, laying a foundation for a happy, healthy, and active life. Meeting their unique dietary needs will not only help them thrive but will also transform mealtime into a tail-wagging, hunger-growling feast of contentment!
