Lisa Myers | Asia Chinese Shar-Pei

Interview with Lisa Myers, Breeder of Asia Chinese Shar-Pei

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What are the hallmarks of your breeds and why are they important for maintaining breed type?
3. In your opinion, are there enough puppy homes to support breeding a litter this year?
4. How have you implemented new technologies in science and communications as a breeder?
5. In your community, have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of purebred dogs?
6. Have you noticed any trends in the sport? Anything to be concerned about?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport in recent years?

Lisa Myers

1. My name is Lisa Myers and I am from New Orleans, Louisiana. I have been in purebred dogs for 37 years and raised Chinese Shar-Pei under the kennel prefix “Asia.” My husband, Ron, and I also own Dorper and Katydin sheep and raise Plymouth Barred Rock and Lavender Orpington chickens.

2. The Shar-Pei has an outline that is distinctive and unique. Its topline dips slightly and rises gradually to a flat croup with a very high-set tail. The Shar-Pei is a moderate breed and should never look like a large breed. Moderation is mentioned in the Breed Standard three times. The texture of the coat is harsh, which is the distinguishing characteristic of the breed, since Shar-Pei means “sandskin dog” in Chinese. As one of the most ancient breeds historically, the Shar-Pei was originally used as a multipurpose farm dog. The third and only feature deemed essential by the CSPCA Standard is “proper movement.” In most other countries worldwide, the Shar-Pei is in the Utility Group.

3. Yes, we have a steady supply of new and repeat owners who purchase puppies.

4. I love the “Embark” testing and have incorporated it in our breeding program. We also do DNA testing on all dogs and use the most current microchip identification linked to AKC Home Again. None of this is cutting edge, but it certainly has evolved in my time in dogs. Communications have improved with the advent of video Zoom conferences where club members can meet without traveling long distances. I am a member and officer of several dog clubs and we all use this forum on a frequent basis.

5. I have. Sadly, many veterinarians seem to perceive dog breeders as opportunistic people. Between all of the negative media regarding puppy mills and dog breeders in general, animal rights organizations, and breeders who are unethical, it has become a very charged environment. Of course, everyone loves to pet a friendly dog, purebred or otherwise, but many times the subsequent questions reveal how poor of a perception the general public has about dog breeders.

6. It seems like the overwhelming change that has happened in the years I have shown dogs is the pursuit of rankings, which are published monthly. I also feel that the “rude” level has turned up in volume.

7. On a positive note, I love that the clubs have taken the NOHS very seriously and, many times, now offer lovely prizes for this competition. Also, the 4-6 Beginner Puppy Competition is becoming quite popular and offers new exhibitors a way to segue into the show scene.