Chinese Shar-Pei
Group: Non Sporting
Lifespan: 7-12 Years
Pups per Litter: 4-6
Average Weight: 40-55 lbs.
Average Height: 18-20 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: Moderate
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs 
Other Animals
History
The Chinese Shar-Pei like its name suggests, originated in China. This breed was used for dog fighting and also as a guard dog for farmers as they would protect the farm animals and the family house. The name Shar-Pei comes from the British term of the Cantonese name for “sand skin” which is the consistency of this breeds coat.
Traits
The Shar-Pei is an affectionate and devoted dog. They are a smart and energetic breed and will become quite attached to their family. If they are raised with other animals and children they should grow up to interact well with them. They will need thorough socialization with other dogs as puppies because this breed was bred for fighting. The Shar-Pei will need an experienced owner who knows how to train and raise dominant breeds as this dog can be rebellious to test their masters. This breed is notorious for disliking water and having skin conditions.
Appearance
Weighing in at 40-55 lbs (18-25 kgs) and averaging 18-20 inches high, the Chinese Shar-Pei is a solidly built dog that is known for their wrinkles! They have a muscular build and wrinkles that cover their face and neck. Their coat comes in 3 types, the bear coat which is the rarest, the brush coat, and the horse coat. The horse coat is of the most popular as it feels prickly and hard to the touch. All coats come in any colour as long as it is a solid colour with no markings. The Shar-Pei has large curious eyes and very small floppy ears. Their tail is a tight coil and they, unlike most breeds, have a black tongue!
Health
The Shar-Pei is notorious for have skin conditions, which is not due to the wrinkles, but rather a genetic trait of the dog. They are also prone to getting fevers and for developing swollen hocks, which may be the beginning of kidney failure.
Training
The Shar-Pei is an intelligent breed, but will need an owner who is experienced in raising dominant breeds and with obedience training. This dog will try to test their owners to see where they belong in the family ranking, so a master who knows how to work with a dog like this is necessary. Training should be consistent and firm, but not harsh. The Shar-Pei is known for their rather easy housetraining abilities!
Care
The Shar-Pei is a low maintenance breed of dog, as they only need to have weekly brushing. They only have a single coat but will “molt” this and will leave the dog looking grubby, but a new coat will come in. Bathing should be done every month or two to remove dead fur.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Non-Sporting Group. They will do well in an apartment if they are exercised daily. The Shar-Pei will need to be walked daily or have access to a yard or park to run around in. The average lifespan is about 7-12 years. They have on average 4-6 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Chinese Shar-Pei, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/chsharpei.htm Chinese Shar-Pei Information
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/sharpei.htm Chinese Shar-Pei Breed Information
http://www.macspro.org Chinese Shar-Pei Rescue
http://www.cspca.com Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America
http://www.akc.org/breeds/chinese_shar_pei/ Chinese Shar-Pei AKC Standards
