The Chinese Shar Pei Mix is a unique and fascinating breed, known for its distinctive wrinkled skin and loyal temperament.
This breed is a cross between a Chinese Shar Pei and another breed, resulting in a one-of-a-kind companion.
They typically weigh between 40 and 60 pounds and stand between 18 and 22 inches tall.
Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners.
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Physical Characteristics
The Chinese Shar-Pei mix is a unique and lovable breed, and one of its most distinctive features is its appearance. Their ears are unusually small and shaped like rounded triangles, always on alert for unusual sounds.
Their eyes are dark and sink deeply into their wrinkled dog faces, depending on their coat color, some dogs may have lighter-colored eyes.
The Shar-Pei's snout is often referred to as being hippopotamus-shaped, with a large and typically dark-colored nose.
Their coat is rough to the touch and not typically longer than one inch, making it easy to maintain.
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Shar-Pei coats come in 18 colors, along with seven types of markings, and can be a solid color in blue, black, brown, cream, fawn, or red.
Their tail is small, proud, and thicker at the base, tapering at the end, and is set high, curling over either side of their back.
Here are the three coat variations of the Chinese Shar-Pei:
Temperament and Behavior
Chinese Shar Pei mixes are loyal and committed to their family, but can be wary around strangers. They respond better to older children who understand how to play calmly with dogs.
These furry companions are intelligent, playful, active, and courageous, but also quite dominant. They need consistent leadership early on in the relationship to thrive.
Shar Peis are easygoing and calm, but will try to "take over" if they feel the human handler is not authoritative enough. They can be challenging animals to train and socialize.
They are good watchdogs because they are so devoted to their masters, but may not take commands from other family members if they appear uncertain or soft.
Shar Peis are not fond of water and are one of the easier breeds to housebreak. They tend to be dominant in dog relationships, so it's essential to socialize them with other dogs from an early age.
With proper socialization and training, Shar Pei mixes can accept cats and children into their family group with no problems.
Care and Maintenance
The Chinese Shar-Pei mix needs socialization early in life to be a well-adjusted, happy adult dog. They love their family deeply, but you'll want to be cautious around strangers, young children, or other animals.
Daily brushing is a must for this breed, especially to prevent skin infections and skin issues. Brush them daily and wash them weekly to keep their skin healthy. Care should be taken when cleaning and drying the many folds characteristic to this breed.
Exercise is welcome, but handlers should be careful not to over-exercise them. They require daily exercise, but it's best to keep it short and brisk. Leash walks and dog park socialization are additional activities that should be a regular part of their day.
The Chinese Shar-Pei is low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but regular nail trimming is still necessary. Use a grinder for just a few minutes every week to keep their nails in shape. It's best to start when they're young and gradually introduce them to the tool.
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Breed Maintenance
To keep your Chinese Shar-Pei happy and healthy, daily brushing is essential to prevent skin infections and skin issues. Brush your Shar-Pei daily to keep their coat in good condition.
Their many wrinkles can trap dirt and moisture, so make sure to clean and dry them thoroughly, especially in the folds on their head. Shade should always be provided when your Shar-Pei is outside, as they're sensitive to heat.
Daily exercise is a must, but be careful not to over-exercise them. Leash walks and dog park socialization are great ways to provide mental and physical stimulation.
Shar-Peis have three coat types: a short rough coat, a slightly longer coat, or an even longer-haired coat. Brushing them once a week with a rubber curry brush is typically enough, unless they have a bear coat that needs extra brushing to remove dirt and mats.
Their bathing needs are low maintenance, requiring only a bath about once a month, or sometimes as long as 12 weeks between baths. Make sure their skin folds are completely dry after bathing to prevent infections.
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To keep their nails in shape, use a grinder for just a few minutes every week. Introduce your Shar-Pei to the grinder slowly, letting them sniff it and touch it to their nails before turning it on.
Don't forget to brush your Shar-Pei's teeth daily, as your veterinarian can help teach you how to do it properly. Start when your dog is a young puppy to get them used to it faster.
Similar Maintenance Breeds
If you're considering a Chinese Shar-Pei, you might also want to look into breeds that require similar maintenance.
The Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie is 100% similar in maintenance needs, making it a great option for those who want a comparable experience.
Dalmatians also require the same level of care, so if you're considering a Shar-Pei, a Dalmatian might be a good fit.
The Ausky, Greyador, and Corgi Cattle Dog are also good options, with 94% similarity in maintenance needs.
Here's a list of similar maintenance breeds to consider:
- Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie - 100% similar
- Dalmatian - 100% similar
- Ausky - 94% similar
- Greyador - 94% similar
- Corgi Cattle Dog - 94% similar
Training and Diet
Training a Chinese Shar Pei mix requires patience and consistency. Start training when they're puppies and focus on positive reinforcement techniques, using treats, toys, and praise as rewards.
Shar Peis are intelligent dogs, but they can be strong-willed, so it's essential to be gentle and loving during the training process. Consistency is key, so establish a routine and stick to it.
Socialization is crucial, especially before they're 12 weeks old. Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and animals to help them develop good social skills.
A well-balanced diet is also vital for your Chinese Shar Pei mix. High-quality commercial dog food is a good starting point, but consult with your veterinarian to determine the best food for your dog's stage in life.
Set a schedule for mealtimes to help with potty training and provide a routine for your dog to anticipate.
Training
Training a Shar-Pei requires patience and consistency, especially since they can be strong-willed.
Shar-Peis are intelligent dogs, but they need early socialization to become well-rounded.
Start training when your Shar-Pei is a puppy and focus on positive reinforcement techniques, using treats, toys, and praise as rewards.
Make sure to spend a lot of time socializing your Shar-Pei, even before they're 12 weeks old, to help them feel comfortable around strangers and other pets.
Shar-Peis can be more cautious around others, so it's a good idea to consult a certified trainer who uses positive reinforcement techniques.
Diet
A Shar-Pei's diet is a crucial part of their training and overall health.
High-quality commercial dog food is a great choice for Shar-Peis, but it's essential to choose the right one for their life stage.
Your veterinarian can help you determine the best feeding chart for your dog, whether they're a puppy, young adult, or senior.
Shar-Peis don't have unique nutrition needs, but you should consider their training needs when planning their meals.
Treats are a great way to reward your Shar-Pei during training, but be sure to factor in the extra calories they provide.
Setting a schedule for mealtimes can help with potty training and give your dog a sense of routine.
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Health and History
The Chinese Shar-Pei mix is a unique and lovable breed, but like all dogs, they require special care to thrive. They have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years.
One of the most important things to watch out for is skin issues, which can be caused by the folds in their skin. Skin infections can be treated with topical treatments, oral antibiotics, or anti-fungals, depending on the cause.
To prevent skin infections, make sure to dry your Shar-Pei thoroughly after a bath or any time they're in water. This will help prevent pododermatitis, which is an infection between the toes.
Shar-Peis can also develop interdigital cysts, which are painful nodules between the toes. These can be treated with topical ointments or even surgery in severe cases.
Here are some common health issues to be aware of in the Chinese Shar-Pei mix:
- Skin Issues (pododermatitis, interdigital cysts)
- Shar-Pei Fever (swollen hocks and fever)
- Ear Infections (due to small ears)
- Hypothyroidism (thyroid deficiency)
- Eye Issues (dry eye, entropion, corneal ulcer, glaucoma, retinal dysplasia, and SARDS)
The Shar-Pei's history is just as fascinating as their appearance. They originated in China over 2,000 years ago, and were once used as hunting and guard dogs for royal families.
Health
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a breed prone to certain health issues, but with proper care and attention, you can help your furry friend live a happy and healthy life. Their average lifespan is between 8 to 12 years.
Skin infections are a common problem in Shar-Peis due to their wrinkly skin, which can trap moisture and bacteria. Regular skin drying after baths and water exposure can help prevent this.
Shar-Pei Fever is a genetic disease that can lead to liver and kidney failure if left untreated. Genetic screening testing may be available through your breeder.
Ear infections are also common in Shar-Peis due to their small ears, which can trap moisture and bacteria. Weekly ear cleaning can help prevent infections.
Hypothyroidism affects up to one in five Shar-Peis, causing weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy. Daily medication can manage this condition.
Here are some common health issues found in the Chinese Shar-Pei breed:
- Entropion
- Hip Dysplasia
- Kidney Problems
- Chinese Shar-Pei Fever
- Mast Cell Tumors
- Patellar Luxation
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Demodectic Mange
- Skin Problems
- Heat Sensitivity
Eye problems are also common in Shar-Peis, including dry eye, entropion, and glaucoma. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify these issues early on.
History
The Chinese Shar-Pei has a mysterious history that dates back thousands of years. Some believe the breed originated in the Han Dynasty, over 2,000 years ago.
The Shar-Pei was once a common breed in China, used by peasants as hunting and herding dogs, as well as guards for royal families.
Figurines from around 200 B.C. resemble the Shar-Pei, suggesting the breed has been around for a long time. Unfortunately, the breed was nearly wiped out in the 1940s by the Chinese Communist Party, which disapproved of families keeping dogs as pets.
The Shar-Pei was even used in fighting pits, but was eventually replaced by other breeds. It's hard to imagine the breed going through such a challenging time, but thankfully, a dedicated breeder named Matgo Law helped raise awareness about the breed's plight.
Mixes and Breeds
Shar Pei mixes are quite popular, and for good reason - their unique looks and aloofness make them stand out.
There are many Shar Pei mixes to choose from, with over 20 options highlighted in some sources. Some Shar Pei mixes are more popular than others, but all have the potential to display Shar Pei characteristics.
If you're considering bringing a Shar Pei mix into your family, keep in mind that they can grow to be about 15 inches in height and weigh up to 30 pounds.
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Popular Mixes
Shar Peis are a unique breed, but did you know they can make great mixes too?
The Shar Pei mix is a popular choice among dog owners, and for good reason - they're often friendly and outgoing.
One of the most well-known Shar Pei mixes is the Pugapoo, which combines the playful Pug with the gentle Shar Pei.
The Shar Pei Poodle mix is another popular choice, known for its low-shedding coat and intelligent nature.
The Chowsky is a Shar Pei mix with the Chow Chow, making it a loyal and protective companion.
On a similar theme: Malamute Mixes
The Shar Pei Beagle mix is a friendly and curious breed, often inheriting the Beagle's love of exploration.
The Shar Pei Lab mix is a great choice for families, as it's often energetic and affectionate.
The Shar Pei Pitbull mix is a strong and loyal breed, but it requires early socialization to ensure it's friendly and well-behaved.
The Shar Pei Corgi mix is a fun and energetic breed, often inheriting the Corgi's short stature and playful personality.
The Shar Pei Boxer mix is a lively and adventurous breed, making it a great choice for active families.
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Similarly Sized Breeds
If you're looking for breeds that are similarly sized to the Chinese Shar-Pei, there are several options to consider. The Bullmatian, for example, is nearly identical in size to the Chinese Shar-Pei, with a similarity rating of 99%.
One thing to note is that the Cocker-Pei is also a good match, with a size similarity rating of 98%. This breed is a great choice if you're looking for a companion dog that's similar in size to the Chinese Shar-Pei.
The French Bullweiler, Pitchow, and Border-Aussie are also worth considering, as they all have a size similarity rating of 97% to the Chinese Shar-Pei.
Here are some breeds that are similarly sized to the Chinese Shar-Pei:
Similar Breeds
If you're looking for breeds that share similar characteristics with the Chinese Shar-Pei, there are several options to consider. The Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie is 100% similar to the Chinese Shar-Pei in terms of maintenance.
The Dalmatian is another breed that's 100% similar to the Chinese Shar-Pei when it comes to maintenance. This means they require similar care and attention.
The Ausky, Greyador, and Corgi Cattle Dog are all around 94% similar to the Chinese Shar-Pei in terms of maintenance. This is a significant similarity, and it's worth considering these breeds if you're looking for a similar experience.
If you're interested in exploring these similar breeds further, here are a few to consider:
- Anglo-Francais de Petite Venerie
- Dalmatian
- Ausky
- Greyador
- Corgi Cattle Dog
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can a Chinese Shar-Pei get?
A Chinese Shar-Pei typically weighs 35-60 pounds and stands 17-20 inches tall at the shoulder.
What is the difference between a Shar-Pei and a Chinese Shar-Pei?
There is no difference between a Shar-Pei and a Chinese Shar-Pei, as "Shar-Pei" is the breed's original name and "Chinese Shar-Pei" is an alternative name.
What is the difference between a Chinese Shar-Pei and a Shar-Pei?
There is no significant difference between a Chinese Shar-Pei and a Shar-Pei, as the terms are often used interchangeably. However, the Chinese Shar-Pei is sometimes used to describe the original breed with a more traditional appearance, including a "bone-mouth" muzzle.
Sources
- Hypothyroidism (petmd.com)
- 7 Things You Didn't Know About the Chinese Shar-Pei (akc.org)
- Chinese Shar-Pei | Dog Breed Facts and Information (wagwalking.com)
- Shar Peis (petkeen.com)
- 20 Shar-Pei Mixed Breeds (With Pictures) (hepper.com)
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