Shar Pei
Summary
The Shar Pei is one of the oldest and most unmistakable breeds in the world, with a history of more than 2,000 years in China, where it was used as a guard dog, hunting dog, and fighting dog. Its name means "sand skin" in Cantonese, a reference to the unique texture of its rough coat. The breed nearly disappeared during the Chinese Cultural Revolution but was saved by breeders from Hong Kong and the West in the 1970s.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 44–51 cm
- Height (female)
- 44–51 cm
- Weight (male)
- 18–30 kg
- Weight (female)
- 16–25 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 9–11 years
- Coat
- Extremely short, rough, and prickly to the touch; feels like sand — unique among all canine breeds; two varieties: "horse coat" (very short) and "brush coat" (slightly longer)
- Common Colors
- Any solid colour — black, chocolate, cream, red, brown, blue (grey); brindle accepted in some organisations
Temperament & Personality
The Shar Pei is an independent, calm, and reserved dog — with its family it is affectionate but not effusive. With strangers, it can be very cautious and even hostile if not well socialised. It has a dignified personality that some describe as "feline". It is intelligent but can be stubborn, making training a challenge that requires patience and consistency.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 45–60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low to moderate
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Eye problems
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Kidney problems (glomerular nephropathy)
- Shar Pei Fever (a breed-unique autoimmune disease)
- Skin fold dermatitis
- Recommended Health Tests
- Amyloidosis screening
- Eye examination
- Hip radiography
- Thyroid evaluation
Compatibility
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
