Chinese Shar-Pei dogs stop growing in height and reach their full adult size by 12 to 18 months of age. However, they might continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are around two years old.

The Chinese Shar-Pei is one breed, but the breed can have several coat types. Horsecoat Shar-Pei have extremely short coats that lie close to the body, brushcoat Shar-Pei have slightly longer coats that don’t exceed one inch in length, and bear coat Shar-Pei have coats longer than one inch.

Chinese Shar-Pei were originally bred for various practical purposes, including hunting wild boar and other game, herding and guarding livestock from predators and thieves. Unfortunately, Shar-Pei were also bred for dog fighting. The loose, wrinkled skin of the Shar-Pei helped reduce the damage they would sustain in fights, allowing them to twist and turn in their skin if bitten by an opponent.

The Chinese Shar-Pei lives eight to 12 years on average. Lifespan can vary depending on the individual dog’s genetics, overall health, diet, and the level of veterinary care they receive.

The Chinese Shar-Pei is from China. The Shar-Pei has a long history in China, dating back to the Han Dynasty (around 200 B.C.). Experts believe the breed originated in the southern provinces, with a significant presence in the Guangdong province. The breed’s distinctive features, such as its wrinkled skin and blue-black tongue, have been maintained through centuries of selective breeding.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei are good guard dogs due to their protective instincts and loyalty to their families. Shar-Pei are naturally alert and vigilant dogs and often bark to alert their people to something amiss. They can be territorial and will defend their home and family if they feel threatened; they generally will not hesitate to confront intruders or strangers who enter their territory.

Keep in mind that it’s important to provide Shar-Pei with proper training and socialization to ensure that they can distinguish between real threats and harmless situations. Additionally, responsible caregiving, including providing a secure living environment and regular exercise, is crucial for maintaining a well-balanced and well-behaved dog of any breed.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei can be good with kids when properly socialized and trained, but this breed is generally best paired with older children who will respect the dog’s space and not bother or tease them.

As with any breed, it is recommended that your child is always supervised when interacting with your dog to keep both the child and dog safe. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is crucial to ensure positive experiences for both the dog and the child, as is teaching dogs how to interact gently with children.

No, Chinese Shar-Pei do not bark a lot. They are fairly quiet dogs, but they might bark to alert their pet parents to potential intruders or unfamiliar situations. Early socialization and training can help minimize excessive barking.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei are good dogs, but they have a unique temperament and present potential challenges. Known for their loyalty and devotion to their people, Shar-Pei have a natural instinct to protect their families, making them good watchdogs. They do not have high physical activity requirements: a daily walk and some playtime usually keep them happy and healthy. 

Chinese Shar-Pei have a strong independent streak, which can make training a challenge. They are naturally wary of strangers and need a lot of socialization as puppies. They can also be territorial and might not get along with other dogs or pets.

Some Chinese Shar-Pei are good with cats, but not all Shar-Pei are good with cats. Some Shar-Pei have a higher prey drive and see cats as potential prey. If a Shar-Pei is introduced to cats from a young age and has positive experiences with them, they are more likely to accept cats as part of their pack. Always supervise interactions between Shar-Pei and cats.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei are hard to train compared to some other breeds. This breed’s independence means they might not be highly motivated to please their pet parents. Shar-Pei sometimes seem stubborn or aloof. However, they can be effectively trained with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. Building a strong bond with your Shar-Pei can help motivate them to cooperate during training sessions.

Some Chinese Shar-Pei are good with other dogs, but not all Shar-Pei are tolerant or friendly toward other dogs. Shar-Pei, particularly males, can sometimes exhibit same-sex aggression, especially toward other dominant males. Use caution when introducing two male Shar-Pei or any other dogs of the same sex. When introducing Shar-Pei to unfamiliar dogs, it’s often best to do so on neutral territory to minimize territorial or resource-guarding behavior.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei are smart dogs. They might not display the same level of eagerness to please as some other breeds, but Shar-Pei are capable of learning and can excel in training when trainers use the right approach for them.

Some Shar-Pei like to cuddle with their people, but others are more independent and less inclined to cuddle. Some Shar-Pei might only enjoy cuddling on their terms or for short periods. If you have a Shar-Pei who enjoys cuddling, it can be a wonderful way to bond with them and strengthen your relationship. Pay attention to your dog’s body language and cues to determine their comfort level with cuddling, and respect their individual preferences.

No, Chinese Shar-Pei are not good for first-time pet parents for a few reasons. Shar-Pei can be independent, stubborn, and aloof. First-time pet parents might struggle with establishing authority and consistency. They can be wary of strangers and other dogs, so they need intensive socialization from an early age. Although their protective nature can be a positive trait, it can also lead to aggressive behavior if not properly managed. 

Healthwise, Shar-Pei are prone to various problems, such as skin infections, hip dysplasia, autoimmune disorders, breathing issues, and eye conditions. Managing these health issues requires knowledge and diligence. Their wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent infections, which can be a meticulous task that first-time pet parents might find overwhelming. It’s essential to research the breed thoroughly and consider your own experience, lifestyle, and preferences before making a decision.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei can be good apartment dogs under the right circumstances. Shar-Pei are medium-sized dogs and don’t have excessive energy, but they still need daily walks, playtime, and other forms of physical activity. Barking can be a concern in apartment living situations. Although Shar-Pei are not known to be excessive barkers, they are protective and territorial and might bark to alert their pet parents to potential threats or unfamiliar situations. Early and consistent socialization and training can help them become well-adjusted and comfortable in various environments, including apartment buildings.

No, Chinese Shar-Pei are not lazy dogs, although they have a moderate energy level compared to some other breeds. They are content with moderate exercise and are often described as “couch potatoes” by their people, meaning they enjoy relaxing indoors with their families.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei are prone to a number of health problems, including:

• Hip dysplasia: Like many large and medium-sized breeds, Shar-Pei are prone to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and lameness.

• Elbow dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is a developmental abnormality of the elbow joint that can cause lameness and arthritis in affected dogs.

• Skin problems: The Shar-Pei’s distinctive wrinkled skin can develop problems such as dermatitis and pyoderma (bacterial skin infections). Regularly cleaning and drying the skin folds is essential to prevent these issues.

• Eye conditions: Chinese Shar-Pei are predisposed to certain eye conditions, including entropion (eyelids rolling inward), ectropion (eyelids rolling outward), glaucoma, retinal dysplasia, sudden acquired retinal degeneration (SARDS), and cherry eye (prolapsed third eyelid). 

• Familial Shar Pei fever (FSF): This congenital disease can lead to fluid accumulating around the ankles and sometimes to renal failure.

• Autoimmune diseases: Shar-Pei are predisposed to certain autoimmune diseases, including amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal protein deposits accumulate in the organs.

• Respiratory problems: Some Shar-Pei experience brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their short muzzle and flat face. This can lead to difficulty breathing, especially in hot or humid weather.

• Cancer: Like many breeds, Shar-Pei are susceptible to various types of cancer, including mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, and lymphoma. 

• Patellar luxation: Also known as slipped kneecaps, patellar luxation is a common problem in many dog breeds. It occurs when slight abnormalities cause the knee joint to slide in and out of place. This can cause pain and occasional lameness. Surgical treatment is available for severe cases, although many dogs lead normal lives without treatment.

• Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, GDV is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other organs. GDV requires emergency veterinary treatment and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

No, Chinese Shar-Pei are not hypoallergenic dogs. Shar-Pei have a short, dense coat that sheds moderately. Additionally, Shar-Pei have skin folds that require regular cleaning and maintenance, which can also contribute to allergen exposure.

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.

All dogs, including Shar-Pei, have their own natural odor, but whether or not they smell varies. The Shar-Pei’s skin folds can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to unpleasant odors if not properly cleaned and maintained. Shar-Pei are also prone to skin problems, such as bacterial infections and dermatitis, which can contribute to unpleasant odors. However, with proper care and hygiene, Shar-Pei can have minimal odor.

Yes, Chinese Shar-Pei are brachycephalic, meaning they have a broad, short skull. This trait gives them their distinctive facial appearance, with a relatively flat face and short nose. Although not as extreme as some other brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, the Shar-Pei’s facial structure can still lead to specific respiratory issues commonly associated with brachycephalic breeds.