Alternative Names: shar-pei
Country of Origin: China
History: The Chinese shar-pei is believed to be an ancient breed that is thought to have originated in the region around the small village of Tai Li in the Guangdong Province during the Han Dynasty (c. 200 B.C.). Statues bearing a strong resemblance to the shar-pei have been dated to this period and a Chinese manuscript from the thirteenth century refers to a wrinkled dog with characteristics much like those of the shar-pei. The Chinese shar-pei is thought to have been developed as an all-purpose dog. Although it has come close to extinction, it is now a popular companion dog.
Physical Description: The Chinese shar-pei is a medium-size, compact, and square dog. Its most distinctive feature is the loose skin that covers its head and body, creating hundreds of wrinkles. It has an oval-shaped muzzle, sometimes called a hippopotamus muzzle, small ears, and a high-set tail. The tongue and lips are a bluish black. It come in two coat types: a short and a longer coat, which should not exceed an inch in length. The coat can be any solid color or sable.
Height: 18 to 20 inches
Weight: 45 to 60 pounds
Temperament: The Chinese shar-pei is an alert, serious, and intelligent dog. It is affectionate and devoted to its family but wary with strangers. It prefers the company of humans to dogs and may be aloof.
Activity Level: Moderate
Best Owner: The best owner for this breed is an active person in a suburban or rural home.
Special Needs: Exercise, socialization, training, wrinkle cleaning
Possible Health Concerns: Amyloidosis, cancer, immune system problems, shar-pei fever
