Chinese Shar-Pei
Also known as: Shar-Pei, Chinese Fighting Dog
Energy Level
Apartment Friendly
Weight (Male)
45-60 lbs
Height (Male)
18-20 inches
Quick Facts
Coat Colors
Breed Summary
The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient, wrinkly breed known for their distinctive loose skin and blue-black tongue. Independent, loyal, and dignified, they are devoted guardians with a unique appearance.
History
One of the world's most ancient breeds, dating back to the Han Dynasty (200 BC). Originally bred for guarding, hunting, and fighting. Nearly went extinct in the 1970s—rescued by a Hong Kong breeder's appeal to Americans. AKC recognized in 1992.
Appearance
A compact, medium-sized dog with distinctive loose, wrinkled skin. Broad, flat head with a hippopotamus-shaped muzzle. Small, dark, sunken eyes. Tiny ears. Blue-black tongue. Sandy, rough coat.
Temperament
Independent, loyal, and dignified. Shar-Pei are devoted to their families but aloof with strangers. They are calm, confident dogs with strong guarding instincts.
Personality Around Others
Deeply loyal to family. Very reserved with strangers. Can be aggressive with other dogs. Independent. Protective.
Exercise Needs
Moderate exercise needs. Daily walks. Not hyperactive. Enjoy moderate activity but content at home.
Training
Intelligent but stubborn. Early socialization essential. Firm, consistent training. Not for novice trainers.
Grooming
Easy coat care—weekly brushing. Clean wrinkles regularly to prevent infections. Check ears frequently.
Health
Common Health Conditions
Shar-Pei Fever is a serious breed-specific condition. Skin and eye issues are common due to wrinkles.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
- Thyroid Testing
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Average Annual Vet Cost
$800-$1,600
Nutrition
Quality food. Two meals daily. Monitor for food allergies. Avoid foods that worsen skin issues.
Living Environment
Can adapt to apartments with exercise. Need climate control. Not outdoor dogs in extreme weather.
Ideal Family
Experienced dog owners only. Those who appreciate independent dogs. Single-dog households often best.
Intelligence
Intelligent and perceptive. They learn quickly but choose when to obey. Strategic thinkers.
Barking
Frequency
Alert
Separation
Quiet Indoors
Generally quiet dogs. They bark to alert but are not nuisance barkers.
Shedding
Year-Round
Seasonal
Vacuum Factor 🧹
Hypoallergenic
Moderate shedding. Short, harsh coat is easy to maintain.
Weather Tolerance
☀️
Heat
❄️
Cold
🌧️
Rain
🌨️
Snow
💧
Humidity
Breed Ratings
Fun Facts
One of the world's most ancient breeds—dating to 200 BC
Nearly went extinct in the 1970s—fewer than 60 remained
One of only two breeds with a blue-black tongue (the other is the Chow Chow)
Their name means sand skin in Chinese
Were saved from extinction by a Hong Kong breeder named Matgo Law
Famous Dogs
Down-Home
One of the foundation dogs that helped save the breed from extinction after Matgo Law's appeal
Common Myths
"Their wrinkles are just for looks"
The loose skin originally served a functional purpose—it allowed them to twist and fight back if grabbed
"They're aggressive dogs"
Well-socialized Shar-Pei are loyal and calm. Their independence is often mistaken for aggression
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the wrinkles cause problems?
They can harbor bacteria and yeast if not cleaned regularly. Weekly wrinkle cleaning is important.
What is Shar-Pei Fever?
A hereditary inflammatory condition causing periodic fevers. Responsible breeders test and manage for it.
Puppy Guide
Shar-Pei puppies are very wrinkly. Start socialization immediately. Clean wrinkles regularly.
Senior Care
Senior Shar-Pei are calm and devoted. Monitor for kidney issues. Wrinkle care continues.
Ownership Costs
Estimated Lifetime Cost
$15,000-$24,000
Pros and Cons
Pros
Loyal guardian
Quiet and calm
Unique appearance
Low grooming needs
Devoted to family
Cons
Health issues
Dog-aggressive
Stubborn
Needs experienced owner
Wrinkle maintenance