| AKC Group: | Non-Sporting |
| A.K.A.: | Shar-pei |
| Functions: | Guard dog, Hunting |
| Year of Origin: | Ancient |
| Country of Origin: | China |
| Life Span (yr): | 8 - 10 |
| Colors: | Apricot, Black, Blue, Fawn, Cream, Fawn, White |
| Height (Inch): | 18 - 20 |
| Weight (lb): | 45 - 60 |
| Size: | Medium |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
Wrinkles on top of wrinkles, the Chinese Shar-Pei is a sturdy dog with a head that is noticeably large for the size of his body. Between all the rolls of skin that hang from his body and head, the tail located high on his body, and the wide muzzle, he is one of the most unique and readily identifiable breeds of dogs. In addition, his eyes are dark and quite small. They are sunken into his skull and make him appear like he is scowling or angry. The ears of the Chinese Shar-Pei are also very small; they may slightly curl as they hang.
Temperament:
The temperament of the Chinese Shar-Pei is variable. He can be reserved and wary of people he does not, but he is always faithful to his family. Not everyone should own a Chinese Shar-Pei. Although he is a bright dog, he has been known to have aggressive tendencies, both towards people and other animals (not in his family). Exceptions are always possible, if he is well socialized. However, he should never be left unsupervised around children, as he can quickly turn on them. The Chinese Shar-Pei has a stubborn side to his temperament that can make him difficult; however, when he wants to learn, he can do so quickly.
Health:
Owners must be aware of a few unique conditions that face the Chinese Shar-Pei. First, if he comes down with a fever or if he has hocks that are swollen, he may have the beginning stages of kidney failure or amolydosis. Although his wrinkles must be kept clean to avoid skin infections, the true problem with his skin is due to a genetic condition that was seen more often because he was overbred. However, most good breeders will not breed dogs that are carriers of the condition. The Chinese Shar-Pei has few other medical problems and can live a long life if given routine veterinarian care.
Maintenance:
Caring for the Chinese Shar-Pei is rather simple. He should be brushed routinely, but due to the style of his coat he never needs to be clipped and he does not have an undercoat that can become matted. He will molt, which if not attended to can make him look ragged and unkempt. He can be bathed whenever he needs it; he is not prone to having dry skin. The Chinese Shar-Pei should get plenty of exercise – as long as the climate and temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold. Otherwise, he can find things to do to inside to get enough exercise. He can be destructive if kept cooped up for too long.