Appearance of the Sharp Eagle
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The Sharp Eagle is a small-to-medium-sized cross-breed, usually no more than 46 centimeters high at the shoulder, with a sturdy build and a slightly broader-than-average stance. The Sharp Eagle can inherit either the slightly shortened cranial structure of the Shar Pei, the longer-than-average cranial structure of the Beagle, or something in between, and its muzzle is broad and square. Dogs that prefer the Shar Pei will generally have a broader muzzle than those that prefer the Beagle, as well as looser, more wrinkled skin. The small almond eyes of the Shar Pei and the large round eyes of the Beagle often seem to give way to larger almond eyes, although significant wrinkles can partially mask the eyes of dogs that lean strongly towards Shar Pei heritage, and while a few may have the very short ears of the Shar Pei or the longer floppy ears of the Beagle, most have medium-length, high-set triangular ears that fold forward to frame the face. |
Temperament of the Sharp Eagle
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This cross is the product of two very different dogs in terms of temperament, and there is likely to be great diversity between individuals, even within the same litter. Ideally, the Beagle's friendly, outgoing nature will offset the Shar Pei's aloof and sometimes aggressive nature, while the Shar Pei's love of home will counterbalance the Beagle's need to roam, but this is not always the case. While the Beagle is generally friendly with other dogs, the Shar Pei can develop dominant, territorial attitudes, which it can pass on to the Sharp Eagle. Intensive positive socialization from an early age and consistent, persistent training will help to correctly guide your Sharp Eagle's independent attitude. Home training can be another matter altogether. The Shar Pei is reputed to be easy to train, sometimes even to train itself, whereas the Beagle is reputed to be difficult to train. This crossbreed therefore needs to be kept in a fenced yard under constant supervision, or on a leash at all times when outdoors, to prevent it from running off after what it considers prey. |
Needs and activities of the Sharp Eagle
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The Sharp Eagle is a fairly athletic animal, but due to the homely nature of most Shar Pei dogs, it doesn't need much exercise for a dog of its size, and is generally content with around an hour of moderate to vigorous activity a day. In addition to brisk walks and ball games, these dogs can engage in activities such as scent work and tracking exercises, flyball and running events to engage their bodies and senses. Although this hybrid may prefer a larger home with a garden, it can generally adapt easily to apartment living with a little extra exercise every day. |
Maintenance of the Sharp Eagle
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Whether your Sharp Eagle inherits the Shar Pei's single-layered spiky coat or the Beagle's short, soft, two-layered coat, grooming should be a much easier task with this hybrid than with other dogs. Neither of the two related breeds requires frequent bathing under normal circumstances, although those that have inherited the Beagle's curiosity may need to be washed a little more frequently due to their penchant for dirt and mud. It's important to note that wrinkled skin needs special attention after a bath to ensure that no dirt, soap or water gets trapped there, as moisture and debris can lead to the development of mold and even infection. Although the Beagle's double coat sheds more than the Shar Pei's single coat, weekly brushing with a long-haired brush or grooming glove is all that's needed to control shedding and keep the coat shiny and healthy. |