Looking for an affectionate, loyal, and protective medium sized dog?
Shar Pei dogs are known for their interesting, wrinkled looks.
They have experienced surges in popularity as people fall in love with their distinctive appearance.
They are one of the oldest dog breeds, with evidence placing them in Ancient China around 200BC. They were revered for being excellent guards and protectors.
Did you know?
Shar Pei is actually singular and plural!
Novice dog owners beware! Shar Pei dogs need consistent and firm training as they are naturally very independent and stubborn dogs. It’s best to socialise early where possible for all situations. Although they’ll love their human best friend, they can be very wary and aloof with pets and human’s they don’t know.
Top tip! Taking your pooch everywhere with you as you go about your day is an excellent way of socialising them. Examples of appropriate places might be dog classes, parks and even the homes of your family members.
If you treat your Shar Pei right and take care of their needs, then you’ll have a loyal and dedicated best friend and watch dog.
Shar Pei Appearance
They are well known for their wrinkled faces but are typically associated with the lighter apricot colours. However, the British Kennel Club recognises many other colours as breed standards, including:
- Red
- Apricot
- Blue
- Chocolate dilute and many more.
They are considered a ‘medium’ sized breed, weighing in around 20-27kg on average. They typically are around 46-51cms in height. Although there will always be smaller and larger dogs.
Did you know?
The Shar Pei name translates to ‘sand-skin’ in Chinese. This is because their fur is surprisingly rough!
Thanks to their short and rough fur, they are naturally clean dogs with minimal shedding. However, you need to keep a close eye on their wrinkles as they can be prone to skin problems in the creases.
Another thing you’ll need to keep an eye on is that they are kept cool. With their short noses, they can be very prone to overheating. So, jogging with your Shar Pei is not usually advised.
Surprisingly, they actually have blue/black tongues. The only other dog with a similar coloured tongue is the Chow Chow. In Ancient China the dark coloured tongue was revered in dogs as it was thought to ward off evil spirits.
Shar Pei Temperament
Naturally stubborn and strong-willed, you will need to show your Shar Pei early on that you’re in charge. However, once you’ve shown your authority, they will be affectionate pets that are dedicated to their family.
Fun fact – although they’ll be naturally affectionate to the whole household, Shar Pei dogs are known for picking a favourite person!
Originally developed to guard, hunt, herd, and fight, the Shar Pei have a natural instinct to protect their loved ones. They will be wary of other pets as they are more used to the company of humans.
Did you know?
This breed was once very nearly extinct due to a hefty tax on dogs in China. They were even named as the rarest dog breed in the world by the Guinness World Record book in the late 60s and 70s.
Their independent nature means that they will tolerate being left alone for short periods of time (with the right training)! And will even adapt to living in a flat - although your neighbours may not thank you for their barking.
Overall, the Shar Pei make wonderful pets. Click here to see Shar Pei puppies for sale.
Are you looking to find a forever home for your Shar Pei puppies? Click here to list your dog for sale.