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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Shar-Pei or Pugs friendly with children?
A: Shar-Pei love children who love Shar-Pei!!! Shar-Pei are very loving, caring companions. They are almost human in their mannerisms. And Pugs love EVERYONE and EVERYTHING!!! Both breeds make superb pets.
Q: What is the difference between Toy, Mini, Standard, and Colossal Shar-Pei?
A: The only difference between the three size is.... size. Toys measure under 15". Minis measure from 15"-17". Standards measure 18"- 21". Colossal measure 22" and above. There is no difference regarding health or longevity. However, Minis and Toys do tend to keep their wrinkles and puppy-like playfulness into adulthood, more so than their larger counterparts
Q: Is there more than one size of Pug?
A: Yes!! There are "regular" Pugs which are about 20-25 lbs, and then there are "Mini" Pugs, which are smaller and shorter. You can see a difinite size difference if you compare the two sizes. There is no other difference than size.
Q: Are Shar-Pei and Pugs good with smaller pets?
A: The Shar-Pei (as were most dogs in general) was used as a hunter in it's past, so the instinct to hunt is still very strong. We try to place our Pei where there are not smaller pets in the home. At the very least, we warn each potential new owners of the possibility of the Pei reverting back to it's "hunter" instinct. However, with proper socialization from the beginning, they can live happily in the same home. Once again, Pugs love EVERYONE!!!
A: Shar-Pei are happy, outgoing, and extremely loyal. They are truly "people" pets, and become valued members of the family they love. Shar-Pei can have every emotion a human can have. This is why they have so often been referred to as "wrinkled humans".
Shar-Pei personalities tend to be connected to coat length at some level. Horsecoats (up to 1/2") tend to be more outgoing and excitable; Brushcoats (1/2" - 1") tend to be more calm and aloof. We try to feel out each potential new owner's personality so that we may help choose the right Pei to fit the right owner, for maximum happiness and compatibility of both owner and Pei.
Q: What is life like with a Pug???
A: The Pug is a very popular breed. They're well suited for many situations and lifestyles. They are a wonderful companion for either the single person or the entire family. It is said that "You don't own a pug, it owns you". Pugs love to be the center of attention and the expression on their face is one that says "Here I am!" You can always count on the pug for comic relief in any situation. They are outgoing, fun-loving, curious, and full of personality. They are "a lot of dog in a small body". They're popularity made them a popular gift for royalty at one time. The Pug is an even-tempered breed. exhibiting stabilty, playfullness, great charm, dignity, and an outgoing, loving disposition
Q: Do Shar-Pei and Pugs make good housedogs?
A: Shar-PEi make EXCELLENT housedogs! They are by far the easiest breed to housetrain (most pups are totally housetrained by the first week in their new home) and because of their nature and careful motions, they do very well in small apartments. Pugs require a bit more patience with housetraining, but with owner perseverance, Pugs will do well.
Q: Do Shar-Pei and Pugs bark alot?
A: In general, the Pei is not a "barker", meaning they don't just sit there barking just to hear their own voice or just because they hear the neighbor's dog barking. Shar-Pei will bark to let you know something is there, or they will bark to let a would-be intruder know it isn't wise to come in when not invited! Pugs on the other hand LOVE to "talk" and vocalize their feelings to their owners!
Q: How do I bathe my Shar-Pei or Pug and how often?
A: We have seen many, many problems which could have been avoided if only the new owner would have practiced the bathing methods we suggest. Shar-Pei have oils in their coat which are vital to keeping their skin healthy. These same oils give the Shar-Pei their distinctive "musky" odor. Too frequent bathing can cause many problem; or not getting ALL the soap off when bathing, which requires moving all the wrinkles and RINSE, RINSE, RINSE. This cannot be stressed enough. We strongly recommend using ONLY Head and Shoulders regular shampoo. (NOT the medicated kind) Too often pet owners will buy the veterinary recommended shampoos which can actually cause more problems than help. We have used H&S only since 1995 with great success! Pugs need only bi-weekly bathing and regular brushing.
A: Another problem we have often seen is when dog owners use topical flea treatments. Although it might work well for some, Shar-Pei many times can be allergic to this treatment, and we have been told of swelling, redness, rash, and vomiting. The Shar-Pei immune system can be compromised by using medications. Holistic approaches often work best with this breed. If you are in an area where fleas and ticks are a problem, talk to your vet about alternative methods to control pests.
Q: Should I have my Shar-Pei puppy microchipped?
A: YES! A breed as unusual looking and coveted as Shar-Pei are stolen frequently. Also, if they become lost, they have a hard time finding their way back home. Both situations can be either avoided or solved if you have your puppy microchipped before leaving our home. As us about this highly recommended service!
