The Shar Pei is a distinctive & ancient dog breed known for its wrinkled skin & unique appearance.

The breed is believed to have originated over 2,000 years ago in the southern provinces of China. It was initially bred as a multipurpose working dog for hunting, herding, & guarding. The breed nearly went extinct in the mid-20th century but was revived through the efforts of breeders in China & later in the United States.

Shar Peis are prone to a variety of breathing issues, primarily due to their unique physical characteristics. Here are some common respiratory problems seen in Shar Peis:

1. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): Shar Peis have a brachycephalic (short-nosed) head shape, which can lead to BOAS. This condition is characterized by narrowed nostrils, an elongated soft palate, & a relatively narrow windpipe, which can cause difficulty breathing, snoring, & an increased risk of respiratory distress, especially in hot or humid weather.

2. Stenotic Nares: This condition involves the narrowing of the nostrils, making it harder for the dog to breathe through its nose. This can contribute to labored breathing & snoring.

3. Elongated Soft Palate:The soft palate, which is the back part of the roof of the mouth, can be too long for the dog’s mouth, obstructing the airway & causing breathing difficulties.

4. Everted Laryngeal Saccules: This occurs when the small sacs inside the larynx are pulled into the airway due to increased respiratory effort, further obstructing airflow.

5. Tracheal Hypoplasia: Some Shar Peis may have a trachea (windpipe) that is smaller in diameter than normal, which can lead to chronic respiratory problems.

To manage these issues, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial. In some cases, surgical intervention is necessary to correct anatomical abnormalities & improve the dog’s quality of life.