Chinese Shar-Pei

• ExerciseLow

  Short strolls and play indoors keep them content.

• GroomingWeekly brushing

  A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment8–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Skin conditions · Entropion · Hip dysplasia

The Chinese Shar-Pei is an unmistakable dog — a walking sculpture of deep velvet wrinkles, a broad 'hippo' muzzle and a blue-black tongue — with a calm, dignified, independent temperament. Devoted and loyal to its own family but naturally aloof and suspicious of strangers, it is a serious, quietly protective dog that needs early, thorough socialisation and patient, consistent, positive training; it is not an eager-to-please breed and can be stubborn and territorial without proper raising. Its exercise needs are moderate, and it is generally quiet and clean indoors. Those famous folds are a major health-linked care commitment: the wrinkles trap moisture and are prone to skin-fold infections, so they must be kept clean and dry, and the breed is prone to chronic skin problems in general. Health is a serious consideration. The Shar-Pei is prone to a breed-specific inflammatory condition, 'Familial Shar-Pei Fever', which can lead to kidney and organ damage (amyloidosis), as well as severe eyelid entropion (often needing surgery), ear infections from tight ear canals, and allergies and skin disease. Buy from a health-focused breeder, keep the folds and ears clean, watch closely for skin, eye and kidney issues, and a well-cared-for Shar-Pei will be a devoted, one-family companion for eight to twelve years.

• How much exercise does a Chinese Shar-Pei need?

  Low. Short strolls and play indoors keep them content.

• How much grooming does a Chinese Shar-Pei need?

  Weekly brushing. A weekly brush keeps the coat healthy.

• Is a Chinese Shar-Pei suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a Chinese Shar-Pei a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Chinese Shar-Pei live?

  8–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Chinese Shar-Pei?

  Keep an eye out for Skin conditions, Entropion, Hip dysplasia. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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