Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-Pei's signature feature is deep wrinkles over their entire body, which gives them a unique look. These ancient Chinese dogs are independent and loyal companions.

Chinese Shar-Pei Breed overview

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium-sized dog breed that originated in China. They are known for their loose wrinkled skin, which makes them stand out among other breeds. The Shar-Pei is loyal to its family but can be wary of strangers and less familiar dogs. They need early socialization to prevent these behaviors. This breed is alert and watchful, hence they make great guard dogs. They are low maintenance dogs but require moderate exercise and mental stimulation.

The Shar-Pei is intelligent and has an independent nature. They can be stubborn at times, making training sessions challenging. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed. Shar-Peis are known for their loyalty to their owners and can make great family pets. They prefer a quieter household and are not typically recommended for families with small children.

The typical lifespan of a Shar-Pei is between 9-11 years, and they usually weigh between 40-60 pounds. This breed is prone to certain health issues like skin allergies, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. Some Shar-Peis can also develop entropion, which is a condition where the eyelid folds inwards causing irritation and discomfort.

Height:
18-20 inches
Weight:
40-55 lbs
Life expectancy:
8-12 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Chinese Shar-Pei

Grooming

Grooming requirements for Shar-Peis are moderate. Their coat is short and bristly to the touch and sheds moderately throughout the year. It requires brushing once a week to maintain its quality.

The folds of loose skin around the Shar-Pei's body require special care. These wrinkles need to be cleaned and dried after every bath to avoid bacterial and fungal infections. You can use baby wipes or specific creams to keep these wrinkles clean. Ears and eyes should also be checked for any infections.

Shar-Peis do not require frequent bathing and should be bathed every 2-3 months unless they get dirty. Bathing too frequently can cause skin irritation and dryness.

Exercise

The Shar-Pei is a moderately active breed that enjoys walks and playtime. They are not a highly energetic breed and are content with a moderate amount of exercise. They need daily exercise to maintain healthy weight and to keep them emotionally and mentally satisfied.

Shar-Peis are not suitable for strenuous activity, so activities like swimming or hiking should be avoided. They would rather prefer leisurely walks and play sessions with their owners.

Mental stimulation is also important for Shar-Peis. They love puzzle toys and games, which can keep them engaged and entertained.

Health

The Shar-Pei is generally a healthy breed, but like every other breed, they have their share of health issues. Shar-Peis are susceptible to skin allergies and infections because of their wrinkles. These wrinkles need to be kept clean and dry to avoid bacteria and fungal growth. They are also prone to developing ear infections and hip dysplasia, so routine check-ups with a veterinarian are recommended.

Some Shar-Peis may develop a rare condition called Familial Shar-Pei Fever, which causes high fever, swollen joints, and skin rashes. Although the cause is not yet known, it's believed to be genetic. With good care and regular check-ups, Shar-Peis can live a healthy and happy life.

Training

Shar-Peis are independent-minded dogs that can be challenging to train. Breeders and pet trainers recommended positive reinforcement training to tackle their stubborn nature.

Socialization training is also essential for a Shar-Pei. Starting early can prevent aggressive tendencies towards strangers and other animals.

Puppy obedience training and house-training should start at an early age to establish good behaviours as adults. Shar-Peis generally respond well to reward-based training where they are rewarded for good behaviour.

Nutrition

The Shar-Pei requires a healthy and balanced diet to maintain optimal health. Their diet should be high-quality, with a primary source of protein in the form of meat. The diet should be rich in essential vitamins and minerals, which can be obtained from fruits and vegetables.

Shar-Peis are prone to obesity, so owners should monitor their dog's weight, size, and serving sizes. Overfeeding can lead to weight problems, which can aggravate other health concerns such as hip dysplasia.

Pet owners should avoid giving table scraps, which can add unwanted weight and upset their dog's stomach.

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Chinese Shar-Pei Traits & Characteristics

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium-sized dog breed that stands between 18-20 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 40-60 pounds. They have a short, straight coat that comes in a variety of colors, including black, blue, cream, fawn, red, and chocolate.

The breed's signature feature is their loose, wrinkled skin, which covers their whole body. Wrinkles around the face and neck are particularly pronounced and often form creases, giving them an old and serious appearance. The coat is short and bristly to the touch, and the Shar-Pei sheds moderately throughout the year.

The Shar-Pei has a broad and wide head with small, triangular-shaped ears that are slightly rounded at the tips. They have a wide and deep chest, with a straight topline and a tapering tail that curls tightly over the back. Their legs are short and muscular, giving them a sturdy look. Overall, this breed is balanced and compact.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal companion that can be aloof and independent but still loves to cuddle with his owner. They are not the most affectionate breed, but they show love and loyalty to their families.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Chinese Shar-Pei is not the best breed for children. While they can be gentle and patient with kids, they are not always comfortable with their high energy level and loud noises. Careful supervision is recommended.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Chinese Shar-Pei was bred to be a fighting dog and can be aggressive towards other dogs. With proper socialization and training, they can learn to get along with other dogs but should not be left unsupervised.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Chinese Shar-Pei can be reserved with strangers, and some may be wary of new people. It's important to socialize them from an early age to prevent shyness or aggression towards strangers.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Chinese Shar-Pei is not the most playful breed. While they do have bursts of energy and can be playful with their owners, they are generally more laid-back and independent.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Chinese Shar-Pei is a protective breed that is generally aware of their surroundings. They are not the most alert breed and may not excel at tasks that require high levels of vigilance.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Chinese Shar-Pei is generally adaptable to different environments and lifestyles. However, they may become stressed or anxious in unfamiliar situations and require proper socialization to adjust well to new experiences.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Chinese Shar-Pei has a short, harsh coat that requires minimal grooming. However, they do shed seasonally, and regular brushing can help control shedding.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Chinese Shar-Pei requires minimal grooming. Occasional baths and weekly brushing are enough to keep their coat healthy and clean. However, they do need regular ear cleaning to prevent ear infections.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Chinese Shar-Pei is not a heavy drooler. They have a dry mouth and don't slobber or drool excessively.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium-sized breed, with males weighing up to 60 pounds and females weighing up to 50 pounds. They have a sturdy, compact build and a distinctive wrinkled face.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Chinese Shar-Pei is a low-energy breed that requires moderate exercise. Daily walks or play sessions in the backyard are enough to keep them healthy and happy.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Chinese Shar-Pei has moderate exercise needs and requires daily walks or play sessions to stay healthy and happy. They also benefit from mental stimulation and training exercises.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Chinese Shar-Pei was originally bred as a working or hunting dog but is now primarily a companion breed. They can still excel at obedience and agility training and enjoy learning new tasks.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Chinese Shar-Pei was originally bred as a hunting dog and has a strong prey drive. However, they are not commonly used for hunting today and are primarily kept as companion animals.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Chinese Shar-Pei has moderate physical stamina and endurance. They are not the most energetic breed, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Chinese Shar-Pei can be prone to certain health issues, including skin infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups and proper grooming can help prevent and manage these health issues.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Chinese Shar-Pei can be prone to obesity, especially if they are not getting enough exercise and are overfed. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent obesity and keep them in good health.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Chinese Shar-Pei can tolerate cold weather conditions as long as they have shelter and protection from the elements. However, they may require extra warmth in extreme cold temperatures.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Chinese Shar-Pei can tolerate hot weather conditions as long as they have access to shade and water. However, they may require extra cooling and protection in extreme heat temperatures.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Chinese Shar-Pei can adapt well to living in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they do require space to move around and may not be the best fit for small apartments.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Chinese Shar-Pei generally does not have a strong tendency to wander or roam. They are content with staying close to their owners and don't require a lot of supervision when outside.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Chinese Shar-Pei is generally not a sensitive breed. They are resilient and can bounce back from criticism or negative reinforcement. However, they still require positive reinforcement and patient training methods.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Chinese Shar-Pei can tolerate being left alone for short periods but may become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Chinese Shar-Pei is not a particularly vocal breed. They may bark to alert their owners of strangers, but they are generally quiet and reserved.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Chinese Shar-Pei is an intelligent breed that benefits from mental stimulation and training. They enjoy learning new tricks and tasks and can excel at obedience and agility training.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Chinese Shar-Pei can be a challenging breed for novice owners. They require consistent training and socialization and may not be the easiest breed to train. Experienced owners will have better success with this breed.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Chinese Shar-Pei can be a challenging breed to train. They are intelligent and independent, which can make them stubborn and difficult to motivate. Consistent and patient training is necessary.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal companion that can be aloof and independent but still loves to cuddle with his owner. They are not the most affectionate breed, but they show love and loyalty to their families.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Chinese Shar-Pei is not the best breed for children. While they can be gentle and patient with kids, they are not always comfortable with their high energy level and loud noises. Careful supervision is recommended.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Chinese Shar-Pei was bred to be a fighting dog and can be aggressive towards other dogs. With proper socialization and training, they can learn to get along with other dogs but should not be left unsupervised.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Chinese Shar-Pei can be reserved with strangers, and some may be wary of new people. It's important to socialize them from an early age to prevent shyness or aggression towards strangers.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Chinese Shar-Pei is not the most playful breed. While they do have bursts of energy and can be playful with their owners, they are generally more laid-back and independent.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Chinese Shar-Pei is a protective breed that is generally aware of their surroundings. They are not the most alert breed and may not excel at tasks that require high levels of vigilance.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Chinese Shar-Pei is generally adaptable to different environments and lifestyles. However, they may become stressed or anxious in unfamiliar situations and require proper socialization to adjust well to new experiences.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Chinese Shar-Pei has a short, harsh coat that requires minimal grooming. However, they do shed seasonally, and regular brushing can help control shedding.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Chinese Shar-Pei requires minimal grooming. Occasional baths and weekly brushing are enough to keep their coat healthy and clean. However, they do need regular ear cleaning to prevent ear infections.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Chinese Shar-Pei is not a heavy drooler. They have a dry mouth and don't slobber or drool excessively.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Chinese Shar-Pei is a medium-sized breed, with males weighing up to 60 pounds and females weighing up to 50 pounds. They have a sturdy, compact build and a distinctive wrinkled face.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Chinese Shar-Pei is a low-energy breed that requires moderate exercise. Daily walks or play sessions in the backyard are enough to keep them healthy and happy.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Chinese Shar-Pei has moderate exercise needs and requires daily walks or play sessions to stay healthy and happy. They also benefit from mental stimulation and training exercises.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Chinese Shar-Pei was originally bred as a working or hunting dog but is now primarily a companion breed. They can still excel at obedience and agility training and enjoy learning new tasks.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Chinese Shar-Pei was originally bred as a hunting dog and has a strong prey drive. However, they are not commonly used for hunting today and are primarily kept as companion animals.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Chinese Shar-Pei has moderate physical stamina and endurance. They are not the most energetic breed, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Chinese Shar-Pei can be prone to certain health issues, including skin infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups and proper grooming can help prevent and manage these health issues.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Chinese Shar-Pei can be prone to obesity, especially if they are not getting enough exercise and are overfed. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent obesity and keep them in good health.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Chinese Shar-Pei can tolerate cold weather conditions as long as they have shelter and protection from the elements. However, they may require extra warmth in extreme cold temperatures.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Chinese Shar-Pei can tolerate hot weather conditions as long as they have access to shade and water. However, they may require extra cooling and protection in extreme heat temperatures.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Chinese Shar-Pei can adapt well to living in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they do require space to move around and may not be the best fit for small apartments.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Chinese Shar-Pei generally does not have a strong tendency to wander or roam. They are content with staying close to their owners and don't require a lot of supervision when outside.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Chinese Shar-Pei is generally not a sensitive breed. They are resilient and can bounce back from criticism or negative reinforcement. However, they still require positive reinforcement and patient training methods.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Chinese Shar-Pei can tolerate being left alone for short periods but may become anxious or destructive if left alone for too long. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Chinese Shar-Pei is not a particularly vocal breed. They may bark to alert their owners of strangers, but they are generally quiet and reserved.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Chinese Shar-Pei is an intelligent breed that benefits from mental stimulation and training. They enjoy learning new tricks and tasks and can excel at obedience and agility training.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Chinese Shar-Pei can be a challenging breed for novice owners. They require consistent training and socialization and may not be the easiest breed to train. Experienced owners will have better success with this breed.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Chinese Shar-Pei can be a challenging breed to train. They are intelligent and independent, which can make them stubborn and difficult to motivate. Consistent and patient training is necessary.

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History of the Chinese Shar-Pei

The Shar-Pei is an ancient breed that originated in China over 2000 years ago. They were originally bred for hunting, herding, and guarding. The Shar-Pei was nearly driven to extinction in the mid-20th century, and only a few pureblooded dogs remained. A Hong Kong businessman named Matgo Law started a breeding program to save the breed, and in the 1970s, the Shar-Pei was introduced to the United States.

The Shar-Pei gained popularity in the US during the 1980s, thanks to their unique appearance and loyal personality. They are currently ranked as the 64th most popular dog breed in the United States.

Chinese Shar-Pei Puppies

Shar-Pei puppies are adorable with their wrinkled faces and chubby bodies. However, this breed has a tendency to be stubborn, hence early obedience and socialization training is crucial. New owners should invest in puppy socialization classes to help their puppies grow into well-behaved adults. Puppies may require more exercise than adult Shar-Peis but still not require a lot of activity. Puppies should be properly trained and house-trained.

The Shar-Pei is also prone to certain health issues like skin, eye, and ear infections. Care should be taken to keep them clean and monitor symptoms.