Do Shar-Pei have breathing problems?

Yes, some Chinese Shar-Pei have breathing problems, primarily due to their brachycephalic (short-muzzled) facial structure. Some Shar-Pei experience difficulty breathing, especially during periods of exertion, excitement, or stress. Additionally, Shar-Pei are more prone to heatstroke due to their compromised ability to regulate body temperature through panting.

Some of the breathing problems that Shar-Pei might experience include narrowed or pinched nostrils (known as stenotic nares), elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules (tissues in the larynx become inflamed and protrude into the airway, obstructing breathing), and tracheal collapse.