As a pet lover, you always want what’s best for your furry friend. When it comes to the health of your pet, it’s important to be aware of common health problems that may affect them. For example, did you know that Chinese Shar-Pei dogs are prone to certain skin conditions?
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common Chinese Shar-Pei health problems and what you can do to help prevent them.
Are Shar-Peis prone to health issues?
Shar-Peis have a unique and fun personality, but unfortunately, they are prone to some serious health issues. Most commonly they suffer from eye and skin problems, digestive issues, joint pain, and mobility problems. Occasionally they can be born with abnormally severe muscle wasting or excess skin with poor muscle development.
Moreover, Shar-Peis suffer from an increased risk of cancers such as histiocytic sarcoma, a type of tumor that can occur in the liver, spleen, or lymph nodes. Clearly, prospective owners should ensure that their chosen Shar-Pei has been regularly tested for these potential health problems and provide rigorous healthcare if necessary.
Is hip dysplasia common in Shar-Pei?
Shar-Pei is an incredibly distinct breed of dog, known for their wrinkly, scowling faces and loyal demeanors. Sadly, many Shar-Pei struggle with hip dysplasia (HD). HD is a condition where the bones of the hip joint don’t form correctly resulting in lameness and pain. While this is common among most purebred dogs, it tends to affect Shar-Pei more than other breeds.
Common symptoms to be aware of include buckling of their back legs while running or jumping, difficulty walking up slopes or stairs, and resistance to activities that require physical movement. If you suspect your Shar-Pei might have hip dysplasia, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your vet right away in order to start treatment as soon as possible and minimize any suffering!
Why is my Shar-Pei itching so much?
Itching is one of the most common issues Shar-Peis often suffer from, and it can be incredibly irritating for them – and you as their owner! Allergies are often the culprit behind non-stop scratching and licking, so it’s important to first consider if anything in your pet’s environment could be causing some sort of reaction.
Have you recently changed food or added any new products to your Shar-Pei’s life? Other conditions such as parasites, eczema, or even a hormonal imbalance can make your pup very itchy. It’s always best to check with a veterinarian to find out what’s going on.
If you don’t have an underlying health issue that needs treating, there are still things you can do at home to provide relief – speak with others in the Shar-Pei community who may have also experienced this problem or research methods to soothe your pup’s skin.
How do I keep my Shar-Pei skin healthy?
Taking good care of Shar-Pei’s skin can be quite a challenge. You’ll want to pay careful attention to their grooming and diet, as both of those things can have a huge impact on the health of their skin. When it comes to grooming, weekly brushing with a soft brush is essential – this helps to remove excess dirt and debris from your Shar-Pei’s fur.
The diet also plays a major role in skin health; make sure you are carefully monitoring the ingredients in your Shar-Pei’s diet, as some food items may cause inflammation or itching. Providing your Shar-Pei with a high-quality omega fatty acid supplement can help boost overall skin health too! And finally, if you notice any changes in their skin such as dryness, itching, or reddening, it’s best to take them to the vet right away for an exam and possible treatment.
In Conclusion: Common Chinese Shar-Pei Health Problem
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a striking and beloved breed, but unfortunately, they experience common health issues like skin problems and eye infections. Despite this, though, as long as owners are cognizant of the possible issues that can arise with their four-legged friend, they can bring joy to your family home. Doing research before adopting or investing in a Shar-Pei is critical to ensure they remain healthy and happy.
If you’re unsure of the heritage of your Shar-Pei, taking them for screening tests at the vet may prove beneficial down the line. Additionally, having regular health checkups with your vet means any particular ailments can be monitored and diagnosed early on. Thankfully, through understanding and proper caretaking, Chinese Shar-Peis have every opportunity to live out their lives gracefully and share plenty more hugs with their people. Thanks for learning about common Chinese Shar-Pei health concerns today!
