Many often associate the Chinese Shar-Pei with its unique wrinkled skin and serious, dignified demeanor. Yet, there’s more to this breed than its endearing furrows and folds. Did you know that despite its ancient lineage, the Shar-Pei almost vanished from existence in the 1970s? Due to the efforts of breed enthusiasts, the Shar-Pei was saved from the brink of extinction and now ranks among the most beloved dog breeds worldwide!
What makes Shar-Pei truly remarkable is its distinctive appearance and health needs compared to other dog breeds. It’s no surprise then, that one of the most common questions asked by Shar-Pei owners is: “Does a Chinese Shar-Pei need special dog food?”
In response, the answer is yes, and for good reason. The Shar-Pei’s unique physiology and known health predispositions demand particular nutritional attention, compared to standard dog breeds.
Why does a Shar-Pei require special food? Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of this interesting breed’s dietary requirements.
1. Skin Health
The Shar-Pei’s thick, wrinkled skin is its hallmark. However, this attribute also makes it susceptible to a variety of skin conditions such as dermatitis, allergies, and even more severe problems like cutaneous mucinosis. High-quality dog foods rich in fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6 are essential for supporting the overall health of a Shar-Pei’s skin and coat.
2. Allergy Prone
Shar-Pei tend to have a higher propensity for food allergies and sensitivities. The most common symptoms include chronic skin issues, ear infections, and digestive problems. Avoiding grains like corn, wheat, and soy can help alleviate these concerns. Providing food based on their primary protein source, like chicken, lamb, or fish, can help alleviate such allergies.
3. Digestive Health
Shar-Pei might also encounter digestive issues due to their sensitive stomachs. The breed often suffers from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and food allergies, causing discomfort, diarrhea, and vomiting. Foods with easily digestible proteins and carbohydrates, and beneficial probiotics can support Shar-Pei’s delicate digestive system.
4. Strong Bone Density
Due to its highly active nature, a Shar-Pei requires a diet rich in calcium and phosphorous. This breed is prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. Providing it with specially formulated dog food helps improve bone and joint health contributing to an active and healthy lifestyle.
5. Weight Management
Lastly, obesity is a common issue among Shar-Peis. An excess of calorie-dense food without sufficient exercise can quickly result in an overweight Shar-Pei. Hence, specially formulated food controlling calorie intake and promoting a healthy weight is essential.
Now that we understand the dietary requirements, here are some tips on how to choose the right dog food for your Shar-Pei:
1. Balanced Diet – A good dog food should provide a balanced diet that includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins. Recipes with real meat (like chicken, beef, or fish) as the first ingredient are usually the best choice.
2. No Fillers – Dog food that contains fillers like corn, wheat, and soy are not recommended. These grains are often associated with food allergies and offer little nutritional value.
3. High-Quality Protein – A diet dominated by high-quality protein, preferably of animal origin, is crucial for the Shar-Pei.
4. Omega Fatty Acids – Dog food enriched with Omega fatty acids helps to keep the Shar-Pei’s skin healthy and its fur shiny.
5. Natural Food – Natural, organic, and nutritious food is always a better choice. It does not contain artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives, making it especially suitable for the Shar-Pei’s sensitive digestive system.
6. Special Diet – If the Shar-Pei suffers from any specific health issues, it might need specially formulated food. Consult your vet to understand the nutritional requirements better.
Last but not least, always maintain a feeding schedule, monitor your Shar-Pei’s weight, and lastly, provide him with enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. Remember, every dog is unique, and hence their dietary needs might differ. It’s always best to consult your vet before making any drastic changes to your Shar-Pei’s diet.
All in all, owning a Chinese Shar-Pei is like embarking on an interesting journey dotted with unique experiences, and nourishing them with the right food is a stepping stone toward their overall wellbeing. So, nurture them with love, care, and the appropriate diet, and you’ll have a happy, healthy, and hearty Shar-Pei by your side!
