what shar-pei eats

Best Dog Foods For Shar-Pei (Puppy and Adult)

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Considered a majestic dog breed, Shar-Peis are originally from China and are one of the best canine companions one could ask for. The Shar Pei is a Chinese dog that is known for its distinctive wrinkles. Feeding Shar-Pei is an important part of their life; Shar-Pei eats specially formulated premium dog foods and treats. So it’s important to choose the right food and treats for them. Shar-Pei requires high-quality food with a minimum of 20% protein, as well as essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Considering these requirements, here are the top dog foods for Shar-Pei:

  • Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Wet Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Stew, 12.5 oz, Case of 12
  • Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Puppy Food, USA-Made, Chicken & Potatoes
  • Nulo Small Breed Wet Puppy Food, Chicken & Egg, 12 Cans

In this article, the nutritional composition and feeding schedule of these Shar-Pei foods will be explained, as well as foods to avoid. At the end, you will have better insights and understanding of the Shar-Pei diet and how to achieve good growth through feeding. 

 

1. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Wet Dog Food, Chicken & Rice Stew

The Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Premium Nutrition Wet Dog Food is a delicious and nutritious option for your growing puppy; this premium dog food is made from quality ingredients that contain balanced nutrients for the growth and development of the pup. This dog food is an ideal food for Shar-Pei Puppies up to 1 year old and pregnant or nursing dogs; it contains balanced nutrients such as proteins, amino acid supplements, vitamins, and minerals. 

Characteristics:
– Provides precisely balanced⁣ nutrition to support the 5⁤ essential building blocks​ for lifelong health
– Made with real chicken and wholesome grains
– Contains DHA from ⁢fish oil for​ healthy brain and eye development
-‌ High-quality protein to fuel growing muscles and active ⁢play
– Balanced minerals to support growing bones and teeth
– Made⁤ in the USA with global ingredients
– #1 ‌Veterinarian Recommended

Formulation Details:
– Date First Available: January 12, 2023
– Manufacturer: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc.
– ASIN: B0BS6T62SL
– Country of⁢ Origin: USA

Additional Information:
– Customers have positive feedback on the health benefits⁢ of the dog food
– Some⁤ customers find the food quality ​good, while others report that their puppies don’t eat it

Nutrient Composition

Composition

Value (%)

Crude Protein

7.0

Crude Fat

4.5

Crude fiber

1.5

Moisture

77.0

 

Main Ingredients

Protein sources: Chicken Broth, Chicken, and Pork Liver.

Energy sources: Sweet Potato, Salmon Oil, Rice, Rice Starch, Chicken Fat, Wheat Gluten, and Fish Oil.

Minerals: Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Magnesium Oxide,  Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Chloride, Potassium Alginate, Ground Pecan Shells, Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Sulfate, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, and Potassium Citrate.

Amino acid supplement: Taurine, Thiamine Hydrochloride, L-Threonine, and Choline Chloride.

Fiber: Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Dried Citrus Pulp, Guar Gum, Carrots, Green Peas, and Pressed Cranberries.

Vitamins: Vitamin E Supplement, Beta-Carotene, Thiamine Mononitrate, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of Vitamin K), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, and, Folic Acid.

Other Additives: Hydrolyzed Chicken Flavor.

Feeding Guidelines

Feeding is done on weight basis. Follow the feeding chart below to know the amount of food to give your puppy as it grows. Always provide access to clean water after feeding and discard all left overs before new meals. 

Weight (pounds)

Amount per day (cans)

2 lbs.

3/8

5 lbs.

3/4

8 lbs

1

10 lbs.

1 1/3

20 lbs.

2 1/4

40 lbs.

3 3/4

60 lbs.

5

80 lbs.

6 1/4

100 lbs.

7 1/3

120 lbs.

8 1/2

 

 

2. Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Puppy Food, USA-Made, Chicken & Potatoes

The Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free dry puppy food is a premium dog formula made from natural ingredients that are rich in quality nutrients to meet the nutritional needs of dogs. This dog food is a perfect blend of nutrients required for the healthy growth of Shar-Pei and other dog breeds. The Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free dog food contains several nutritious ingredients like chicken, which is a good source of protein, a blend of fruits and vegetables that supply minerals and vitamins required for the metabolic activities of the dogs, and aid in the digestion of nutrients. Most importantly, this dog food is grain-free, making it safe for Shar-Pei to eat and other dog breeds that are likely to have allergies. 

Characteristics:
– ⁣Made with chicken as the first ingredient
– Contains antioxidant-rich‌ fruits and vegetables
– Formulated for puppies with DHA and ARA for brain and eye development
– No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy
– Enhanced digital product ⁣packaging
– Customers report shiny, healthy coats and energy in their dogs

Formulation Details:
– Real meat first: high-quality chicken as ‌the #1 ⁤ingredient
– Contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits
– One (1) 4-lb bag of BLUE Freedom Grain-Free‌ Dry ‍Puppy Food, Chicken Recipe
– Formula adjustments made for ⁢palatability, no new allergens added

Additional Information:
– ⁢Manufacturer: Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd
– ‌Date‍ First Available: April⁤ 10, 2012
– ASIN: B007SWZ5TO
– Country of Origin: USA
– Manufacturer recommended age: 1 month⁤ and up
– Product Dimensions: 13.5 x 8 x 4.25 inches; 4.06 Pounds
– Customers find the dog food to be of good quality and value, with positive feedback​ on the grain-free formula and palatability for picky eaters. Opinions⁤ on digestion are mixed.

Nutrient Composition

Composition Value (%)
Crude Protein 27.0
Crude Fat 16.0
Crude fiber 5.0
Moisture 10.0
DHA 15
Calcium 1.3
Phosphorus 1.0
Choline 2,750 mg/kg
ARA 0.04
Omega 3 Fatty Acids 1.0
Omega 6 Fatty Acids 2.5

 

Main Ingredients

Protein sources: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Dried Egg Product, Peas, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, and Pea Protein.

Energy sources: Potatoes, Pea Starch, Chicken Fat, Tapioca Starch, Canola Oil, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Dried Yeast, Flaxseed, Dried Tomato Pomace, Fish Oil, and Oil of Rosemary.

Minerals: Dicalcium Phosphate, Salt, Choline Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Chloride, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, and Sodium Selenite.

Amino acic supplement: Iron Amino Acid Chelate, L-Lysine, DL-Methionine, Taurine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, and, Copper Amino Acid Chelate.

Fiber: Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Blueberries, Cranberries, and Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets.

Vitamins: Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Vitamin C), Vitamin E Supplement.

Other Additives: Natural Flavor and Vegetable Juice.

Feeding Instructions

Can be fed to Shar-Pei and other dog breeds at all growth stages and ages; the quantity given differs. Feed your Shar-Pei puppies 1 cup per 10 pounds of body weight for 1 to 3 months, 4 cups per 60 pounds of body weight for 3 to 5 months, and 8 cups per 100 pounds of body weight for 7 to 12 months. For dogs under 6 months, feed 3 times per day and dogs over 6 months should be fed 2 times per day. Always provide access to clean, fresh water.

 

3. Nulo Small Breed Wet Puppy Food, Chicken & Egg, 12 Cans

Nulo Grain-Free Small Breed Wet Canned Puppy Dog Food is a nutrient-rich formula specially designed for small breed puppies like Shar-Pei. This wet puppy food is enriched with chicken and egg flavor to increase the dogs’ acceptance. Nulo Small Breed Wet Puppy Food is formulated with natural ingredients that support lean muscles, metabolism of fat, and a healthy heart. It is the right choice for Shar-Pei and other dog breeds under 3 months old.

Characteristics:
– Specifically tailored ⁣for small-breed dogs
– ⁤Complete⁢ and ‌balanced meals
– Premium quality, high-animal based‌ protein
– No added grains
– Supports all life stages
– High​ animal-based protein for lean muscles and a healthy⁤ heart
– L-Carnitine ‌promotes fat metabolism

Formulation Details:
– Package Dimensions: 10.59 x 4.25 x ‌2.52 inches; 2.8 ounces
-‍ Date First Available: July 22, 2024
– Manufacturer: Nulo
– ASIN: B0D9PCQDRT
– Country of Origin: Thailand

Additional Information:
– Can be used as a primary diet ⁢or as a tasty topper for dry kibble recipes
– Provides ⁢stable⁤ energy levels

Nutrient Composition

Composition Value (%)
Crude Protein 10.0
Crude Fat 7.0
Crude fiber 1.0
Moisture 78.0
DHA 0.01
Taurine 0.05

 

Main Ingredients

Protein sources: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Egg

Energy sources: Sweet Potato, Salmon Oil,

Minerals: Potassium Chloride, Salt, Choline Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Calcium Iodate

Amino acic supplement:  Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, L-Carnitine, Taurine, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate,

Fiber: Carrots, Pumpkin, Guar Gum, Apples, Spinach, Inulin, Flaxseed, Dried Kelp, and Parsley.

Vitamins: Calcium d- Pantothenate (source of Vitamin B5), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Sodium Selenite, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (source of Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Cholecalciferol (source of Vitamin D3), Biotin, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate (source of Vitamin B1), Vitamin A Supplement, Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (source of Vitamin K activity).

Feeding Instructions

The amount of this food given to dogs depends on the age, activity level, and physiological status of the dog. For puppies under 11 weeks of age, give them free choice of this dog food 3 – 4 times per day. Follow the feeding chart below to see how much of this dog food you need to feed your puppy per day.

Age (weeks) Amount per day (cans)
Under 11 weeks Free choice, 3 – 4 times per day.
11 to 26 weeks 3 cans per 5 pounds of body weight per day.
26 to 52 weeks 2 cans per 5 pounds of body weight
Adult 2 ½ cans per 7 pounds of body weight per day.

 

Ensure you clean the feeder before serving new meals daily. Only feed the dogs what they can finish at a time and discard all leftovers before serving new meals. Always provide access to clean, fresh water.

Feeding Shar-Peis Grains

It is recommended that your Shar-Pei eat grain-free food. This alleviates any worries about food allergies and provides a healthy diet. Be sure to check labels and bags for ingredients. Most premium brands offer both grain-free and dry foods containing some grain(s).

While some dogs can tolerate brown rice formulas, it is highly suggested that you avoid corn, wheat, and soy. As always, this advice doesn’t supersede recommendations from your veterinarian for prescription diets. Most of these foods are available at Petco, PetSmart, and Pet Supermarket, as well as local specialty shops or feed stores. Check online for vendors and coupons.

Some people choose to feed their Shar Pei raw food diets instead of canned or dry kibble. This can be advantageous because there are fewer additives in raw foods than in processed foods, which means less risk for allergies or sensitivities. However, it is important to note that not all dogs can tolerate raw diets without experiencing digestive issues like diarrhea or vomiting. If you do decide to feed your dog raw foods, talk to your vet about how much raw meat they should get per day and whether they need additional supplements like calcium or vitamin D3

Other Foods To Avoid Giving Shar-Pei

Not all foods are good for Shar-Pei. Here are some foods to avoid when feeding Shar-Pei. These foods contain substances that can cause allergic reactions and greatly impair Shar-Pei’s health.

  • Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs.
  • Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
  • Onions and Garlic: Belong to the Allium family and can cause anemia and damage to a dog’s red blood cells.
  • Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia.
  • Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods, which can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar.
  • Avocado: While not toxic, the pit, skin, and leaves can cause problems, and the high fat content can lead to pancreatitis.
  • Caffeine: Can cause similar symptoms to chocolate toxicity.
  • Raw or Undercooked Meat, Eggs, and Fish: Can contain bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause food poisoning.
  • Bones: Can splinter and cause obstruction or puncture in the digestive tract.
  • High-Sodium Foods: Can lead to electrolyte imbalance and other health issues.
  • Fatty Foods: Can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.

Additional Considerations for Feeding Shar Peis

  • Food Allergies: Shar Peis can be prone to food allergies, especially when they eat food that contains grains, so monitor for signs of allergies or sensitivities.
  • Hypothyroidism: Shar Peis are prone to hypothyroidism, so a balanced diet that supports thyroid health is essential.
  • Skin Issues: Shar Peis can experience skin problems, and certain ingredients in their food may exacerbate these issues.

    Feeding Schedule For Shar-Peis

    It is recommended to feed a Shar-Pei at least twice a day. This decreases begging behavior and may decrease the incidence of bloat. Obesity is a very common dog problem. It is essential to balance the dog’s activity and food intake. It is common sense to understand that an inactive dog requires fewer calories to maintain body weight; conversely, a very active dog requires more calories. Calories can only come from what we feed the dog, either from the amount of food fed/or the protein level of the diet.

    Dogs will preferentially use protein for energy, so a high protein diet in an inactive dog will result in weight gain. Also, feeding too much food will result in weight gain. The solution is simple: feed according to your dog’s activity level. Most Shar-Peis are less active in the winter and more active in the summer. This means we need to decrease the amount of food they get during the times of the year coinciding with decreased activity and increase the amount of food when activity increases. The reverse may be true with brush coats and bear coats, which tolerate the winter much better than housecoats.

    About Chinese Shar-Pei

    The Chinese Shar-Pei is one of the most ancient dog breeds in the world. DNA research has shown that the Shar-Pei is one of the 14 oldest breeds, one of the breeds first domesticated by humans from wolves. The breed looks much today, as it did over two thousand years ago, based on ancient statues. Once used as a war dog and a favorite with Chinese emperors, today the Shar-Pei makes an intelligent companion.

    Shar-Pei (the plural is the same as the singular) can be prone to bloat and skin allergies, so finding the best dog foods for Shar-Pei can be a challenge at times. Shar-Peis are recognizable for their wrinkles. The breed has two coat types: a prickly horsehair kind of coat and a brush coat that is longer and smoother. Shar-Pei is not a dog that can eat any food. In addition, these animals are prone to the development of allergic reactions, obesity, and the formation of endocrinological pathologies. Therefore, the diet selection for these pets should be given as much attention as possible.

    Shar-Pei Diet

    Shar-Pei needs appropriate nutrition to suit this breed’s specific needs. Shar-Pei requires a diet that features good-quality protein. According to the National Research Council of the National Academies, an active adult Shar-Pei weighing 50 pounds requires an average daily caloric intake of 1312 calories.

    Dogs that have been spayed/neutered or that are older may need slightly fewer calories. Some dogs may need more calories depending on their level of activity and their individual metabolism. Growing puppies will also consume more calories than adult dogs, and so do young adult dogs. A Shar-Pei puppy weighing 30 pounds (4-12 months of age) needs an estimated 933 calories per day.

    Unfortunately, there is no one diet that fits all dogs, even those of the same breed. Some prefer Raw, some prefer kibble, and some prefer a mixed diet, so sometimes you just have to do your research and try alternatives to find the ideal diet (primarily) for your dog and, secondly, what fits in with your family lifestyle. Feed your dog what it does well on. If new diets are tried, you need to give them at least 3 months to know if there has been any benefit and ensure your transition from one food to the other over a week to 10 days.

    Conclusion

    The best food for Shar Pei’s is one that contains high-quality protein, such as chicken or beef, along with other meats such as lamb or fish. Carbohydrates should come from potatoes and brown rice, and vegetables such as carrots or broccoli should be added to the diet as well. The feeding of Shar Pei should always be balanced and varied. The dog should receive enough food so that it can grow normally, but it must not overeat. Too much food can cause obesity problems in this breed of dog, so you have to pay attention to what your pet eats every day.

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