Chinese Shar-Pei Dog Breed Information

Group

Non-sporting

Weight

18-30 kg

Height

46-51 cm

Lifespan

8-12 years

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About the Chinese Shar-Pei

Reviewed by:

Dr. Charlotte Francesca Stiles

Veterinarian

With their loose, wrinkled skin and long curly tails, the Shar-Pei is an instantly recognisable breed. If you’re thinking of bringing one of these unique pooches into your family, this Chinese Shar-Pei dog breed guide is for you!

With advice on grooming, training, and feeding, this guide contains everything new Shar-Pei owners need to know! To find out more, read along as we take a detailed look at this quirky breed.

What is the history & origin of the Chinese Shar-Pei?

Native to the southern provinces of China, the Shar-Pei breed dates back to the Han Dynasty – more than 2,000 years ago. It’s believed to have been a peasant’s dog, expected to be a versatile companion.

Chinese farmers would use these sturdy and intelligent dogs as herders, hunters, and protectors of livestock against rustlers and predators.

Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, dog ownership became frowned upon. and almost the entire canine population was wiped out. However, a few Shar-Peis were still bred in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

If it wasn’t for the work of one Hong Kong breeder, Matgo Law, this breed could have become extinct. Thanks to his efforts, a small group of these dogs were taken to the US in 1973, where the enthusiastic response from breed fanciers ensured the survival of the breed.

The Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America was formed in 1974, and the breed was given official recognition by the American Kennel Club in 1992.

What is a Chinese Shar-Pei breed?

The Shar-Pei is a medium-size dog part of the non-sporting group. This intriguing but challenging breed has an ancient pedigree. It is fiercely loyal to its family but can be aloof with strangers. The breed also has physical features that make it a one-of-a-kind canine.

This compact dog is a combination of odd physical features, including a wide “hippopotamus” muzzle, small triangular ears and a blue-black tongue. The eyes are small and sunken and usually make the Shar-Pei look like it’s scowling.

The abundant skin folds from the head to the shoulders are the most recognisable trait. The skin folds are covered with a harsh bristly coat – with Shar-Pei translating to “sand skin”.

Who is a Chinese Shar-Pei best for?

Because the Shar-Pei is an independent breed, it’s better suited to families with older children who understand how to treat the dog with respect. This breed can comfortably live in the country or the city, and it can adapt to apartment living as long as daily exercise is provided.

Although a big backyard isn’t essential, the dog will need to get outside every day to stretch its legs. Generally, the Shar-Pei is happy to just hang out with its humans, wherever they may be.

Chinese Shar-Pei Grooming & Shedding

The wrinkly skin and bristly coat are quintessential Shar-Pei features. The coat stands up on its end, and the length can vary, ranging from a very short “horse” coat to the longer “brush” coat.

The Shar-Pei is a naturally clean canine that doesn’t have the typical odour, so only one good brushing session will be needed each week. Using a grooming mitt or a rubber curry comb is usually enough to remove dirt and loose, dead hair.

Bathing should be restricted to once every few months because the skin tends to get easily irritated. Bathing and brushing are the straightforward parts of grooming this dog! The challenging but vital part is ensuring that the coat is kept dry.

If any moisture is left between the skin folds, yeast or fungal infections can form. The folds of the skin will need to be cleaned thoroughly and regularly.

You’ll also need to ensure the folds stay dry at all times as well. You can do this by wiping them gently with a dry towel to remove any moisture.

Do Chinese Shar-Peis bark a lot?

This breed is known for being an excessive barker! This is because of their history as herders and livestock guardians, where barking is needed to ward off predators and intruders.

They are very suspicious of other dogs and strangers, and although they’re generally calm, they will meet potential threats with vigour and tenacity! Although you won’t be able to eliminate all barking, obedience training can help prevent excessive vocalness.

What is the average weight & height of a Chinese Shar-Pei dog?

An adult Shar-Pei typically measures 46-51cm at the shoulder and weighs around 18-30kg, with males and females being roughly the same size.

Are Chinese Shar-Peis easy to train?

These dogs have a naturally stubborn nature, but they do learn quickly when they’re well motivated – food does a very good job at motivating this breed!

As long as you assert yourself as the pack leader and don’t give your dog an inch, you’ll end up with a well-behaved pooch that wants to please!

How do Chinese Shar-Peis behave? A look at their temperament and personality

The Shar-Pei temperament is independent and alert. They are extremely devoted to their families but are very standoffish with those that they don’t know. It’s said that these dogs prefer the company of humans to other dogs, and they like being with their owners at all times.

A serene and confident dog, it seems to have a very intuitive understanding of its human. Although they are devoted, these dogs are also strong-willed and free-spirited. They are protective of their families and will respond to any perceived threats.

Does the Chinese Shar-Pei have any common health issues?

Shar-Peis are predisposed to certain health issues, particularly skin conditions. Although not all of these dogs will suffer from all or any of these conditions, owners need to be aware of them. These conditions include:

Shar-Pei fever: This is also known as swollen hock syndrome. It’s characterised by swelling in one or both hocks, resulting in the dog not wanting to move. Other symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, shallow breathing, and diarrhoea.
Hypothyroidism: This is an abnormality in the thyroid gland. It’s believed to be the cause of conditions like alopecia, epilepsy, lethargy, obesity, pyoderma, and other skin problems. The treatment is usually diet changes and medication.
Seborrhea: This condition is characterised by a foul odour and flaky skin. It’s usually a secondary condition to infection, allergy, or another disease. Treatment includes medicated shampoo and treating the underlying condition.
OCD – Osteochondrosis Dissecans: This is an orthopaedic condition with the cause being improper cartilage growth in the joints, usually in the elbows. It causes painful stiffness in the joint, and the dog may not be able to bend the elbow. This condition can be detected as early as 4-9 months. Overfeeding of high-protein food or “growth formula” puppy food may cause the development of this condition.
Entropion: This condition is where the eyelid, usually the lower one, rolls inwards. It happens in both eyes and causes irritation and vision loss, usually happening before the dog is 12 months old. Treatment is usually corrective surgery once the dog becomes an adult.

Other conditions to look out for include hip and elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, and bloat. These health concerns can be reduced by buying a Shar-Pei puppy from a responsible and reputable breeder. A good breeder will always screen their breeding dogs for common conditions.

Vets recommend taking your pet for yearly health checks, vaccinating them and treating them against parasites.

What is the lifespan of a Chinese Shar-Pei?

Like many medium to large dog breeds, the Sharpei has a life expectancy of 8-12 years.

How much does a Chinese Shar-Pei need to be fed?

Fresh, clean water should be available for your dog at all times, and a balanced diet should be provided. This breed is prone to bloat, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. To prevent this, feed your pooch smaller meals at regular times and limit exercise after eating.

How much can you expect to pay for a Chinese Shar-Pei in Australia?

Shar-Pei puppies bought from a reputable breeder could cost around $1,000-$1,500, while a show-quality puppy could cost as much as $2,500. The price depends on the pedigree, the breeder’s location, and the age of the puppy.

Chinese Shar-Pei FAQs

How do you tell if your dog is a Chinese Shar-Pei?

The Chinese Sharpei is a very distinctive looking canine! When you pick up your new puppy, you should receive pedigree or breeder’s papers to prove the breeding of the dog.

Can Chinese Shar-Peis swim?

No, this breed is not known for its swimming ability, and its general physical build is not designed for swimming. The wrinkly skin retains a lot of moisture, and their tiny ears can develop ear infections if water gets into them.

Are Chinese Shar-Pei dogs protective?

Yes, this breed is very protective of its humans and may show aggression towards strangers and other dogs. Because of this, your dog should be socialised as early as possible. This should include exposure to as many different sights, sounds, people, and experiences as possible.