Shar Pei
History and Background
Shar Pei is a unique dog breed originating in ancient China, where it was used as a guarding, hunting, and even war dog. The breed’s name in Chinese refers to the special texture of its coat: “Shar Pei” means sand skin, describing the short, rough, and wrinkled coat. The many folds on its body were used in the past for protection in fights – the wrinkles allowed it to keep fighting even when predators or opponents tried to grab its skin. After almost becoming extinct in the 20th century, the Shar Pei was restored and is today common mainly as a loyal and loving pet.
Breed Details
Easygoing with Training
Shedding
Life Expectancy
Pet-Friendly
Family-Friendly
Breed Size
Breed Size
Family-Friendly
Pet-Friendly
Easygoing with Training
Shedding
Life Expectancy
More Breed Details
Life Expectancy
Life Expectancy
8-12 years
Male Weight
Male Weight
Males and females: 18-25 kg
Female Weight
Female Weight
Males and females: 18-25 kg
Male Height
Male Height
Males and females: 46-51 cm
Female Height
Female Height
Males and females: 46-51 cm
Weather Sensitivity
Weather Sensitivity
High sensitivity to heat and humidity
Energy Level
Energy Level
High
Coat Characteristics
Coat Characteristics
Short, rough, and stiff; there are many colors: brown, black, blue, cream, red, and more. The coat lies close to the body, with many folds around the head and shoulders
Hereditary Diseases
Hereditary Diseases
Tendency toward skin problems (such as inflammation in the folds), eye problems such as entropion, hip dysplasia, and amyloidosis (a genetic kidney disease)
The Breed's Purpose Today
Today, the Shar Pei is used mainly as a family pet thanks to its devoted nature and loyalty. It is also a good guard dog, thanks to its natural alertness and territorial nature. The Shar Pei is suited mainly to quiet and experienced homes, where it can be provided with devoted care, attention, and protection from excessive heat.
Tips for Training and Educating the Breed
- Early socialization: The Shar Pei may be territorial or suspicious of strangers, so it is important to accustom it to dogs, people, and various environments from a young age.
- Consistent and patient training: The breed tends to be independent and sometimes stubborn, so a calm and focused approach should be used.
- Grooming and skin care: It is important to clean the folds of its skin regularly to prevent inflammation and skin problems.
- Moderate activity: The Shar Pei does not need intensive activity, but daily walks and moderate play will be enough to maintain its health.
- Temperature control: It should be protected from heat and humidity, as it is very sensitive to them and can develop breathing problems.
