Can stress cause Shar Pei fever? How long do Shar Peis live for?
An important factor to consider when getting any pet is their health. No one wants their beloved companion to be in pain or to have a short life span. So, are Shar Peis healthy?
Unfortunately, like all animals, Shar Peis are not immune to health problems. In fact, this dog breed is more susceptible to certain health conditions than others. However, this does not mean that Shar Peis are unhealthy. It simply means that their owners must be diligent in ensuring they are receiving proper care.
Read on to learn more about whether Shar Peis are healthy and how you can ensure your dog is living a long, happy, and healthy life.
Are Shar Peis Healthy?
All purebred dogs, like all people, are susceptible to inherited health issues. Any breeder who does not give a health guarantee on pups, who claims that the breed is hundred percent healthy and it has no health issues, or who claims that their puppies are kept separate from the rest of the family for health reasons, should be avoided.
An honest breeder will be open about health issues in the breed and the frequency with which they arise in their lines.
The Chinese Shar-Pei has various health issues that can be problematic, especially if you don’t choose your breeder carefully. Joint and knee dysplasia, autoimmune thyroiditis, patellar luxation, entropion, retina hypoplasia, blindness, and cataracts are just some of them.
Do not purchase a dog from a person who cannot provide you with a documented record that the dog has been free from breed-specific health issues. A “vet check” for the dogs is not an alternative for genetic health diagnostics.
Common Health Issues in Shar Peis
The most common health issues in Shar Peis are skin problems. This is because they have loose skin that can easily become infected. It is important to keep the skin clean and dry and to inspect it regularly for any signs of infection.
Some of the other health issues that are seen in Shar Peis include:
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip and elbow dysplasia are two of the most common health problems in Shar Peis. Dysplasia is a general term that refers to the abnormal development of a joint. In dogs, it is usually caused by genetics or poor nutrition.
Hip dysplasia occurs when the femur does not fit snugly into the hip socket. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Elbow dysplasia is similar, but it affects the elbow joint instead of the hip.
Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Autoimmune thyroiditis is a common condition in Shar Peis. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. This can lead to weight loss, hair loss, and lethargy.
Pups with this condition will usually need to take thyroid hormones for the rest of their lives.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a condition in which the kneecap (patella) slides out of place. This can be caused by genetics, injury, or poor nutrition. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
Fortunately, with the help of conservative medical management or surgery, pups with this condition can live normal, happy lives.
Eye Problems
Shar Peis are prone to various eye problems, such as entropion, glaucoma, and cataracts:
- Entropion is a disorder where the eyelid turns inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the eyeball. This can lead to irritation and inflammation.
- Glaucoma is a condition that causes increased pressure in the eye, which can lead to pain and blindness.
- Cataracts are a clouding of the eye lens, which can cause vision problems.
Retinal Dysplasia
Retinal dysplasia is a disorder that affects the retina, the layer of underlying cells in the back of the eye that is responsible for sending visual signals to the brain. It can be caused by genetics or injury.
Puppies with this condition will usually need to have their eyes checked regularly by a veterinarian. They may also need to take medication or have surgery.
While these are some of the most common health issues seen in Shar Peis, it is important to remember that not all dogs will experience these problems. Some dogs may never have any health issues, while others may only have minor problems that can be easily managed.
Final Thoughts
So, are Shar Peis healthy? While they are prone to some health problems, with the help of a responsible breeder and regular veterinary care, most Shar Peis can live long, happy lives (read about how long do Shar Pei dogs liveׁ). Make sure to do your research before getting a Shar Pei and always consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health.
