Dog Breeds Shar Pei Mixes: Choosing the Right Companion for You

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Posted Oct 23, 2024

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If you're considering bringing a Shar Pei mix into your family, you'll want to know about the different types of mixes available. With their unique appearance and loving nature, it's no wonder Shar Pei mixes have become increasingly popular.

The Shar Pei mix can come in a variety of sizes, ranging from toy to standard, depending on the breed it's mixed with. For example, a Shar Pei Poodle mix can be a smaller dog.

For another approach, see: Pitbull Dog Mixes

History and Origin

The Shar-Pei is an ancient dog breed that originated in southern China over 2,000 years ago. It was initially kept by peasant farmers and bred as an all-purpose work dog.

The Shar-Pei is a much older breed than the German Shepherd, possibly dating as far back as 200 B.C during the Han dynasty. Unfortunately, the breed was nearly eliminated by the Communist Party in the 1950s.

Here's a brief timeline of the Shar-Pei's history:

The Shar-Pei's history is a fascinating one, and understanding its origins can help us appreciate the unique characteristics of this breed and its mixes, like the Shar-Pei German Shepherd mix.

Origin and History

Cute Shar Pei Dogs
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The Shar-Pei is an ancient dog breed that originated in southern China more than 2,000 years ago. It was initially kept by peasant farmers and bred as an all-purpose work dog capable of guarding, herding livestock, and hunting.

The Shar-Pei has a rich history dating back to the Han dynasty, around 200 B.C. During this time, it was used as a general working dog and even had a unique feature that helped ward off evil spirits.

Unfortunately, the breed was nearly eliminated by the Communist Party in the 1950s, but thanks to a breeder from Hong Kong, Matgo Law, it was saved from extinction.

Today, the Shar-Pei is mostly kept as a companion and show dog, with its guarding instinct making it an ideal watchdog.

Here are some interesting facts about the Shar-Pei's physical features and characteristics:

The Shar-Pei German Shepherd mix is an unusual and rare designer dog, and since most existing examples are F1, not much is known about it. However, by understanding the history of the parent breeds, we can get a glimpse into what this exciting mix might be like.

American

A Shar Pei Dog Running on the Grass in a Park
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The American Ori-Pei, a hybrid breed resulting from a Pug and Shar-Pei mix, has gained popularity as a family pet.

Unfortunately, their overbreeding has led to serious physical flaws, mirroring those found in the Shar-Pei breed, which increases the likelihood of the hybrid breed developing similar conditions.

Physical Characteristics

The German Shar-Pei is a unique-looking dog with a compact body covered in wrinkles and folds. They have broad muzzles and a short, broad snout that can make them more prone to heatstroke.

Their eyes are typically deep brown or hazel, and they may have either the pointy ears of a German Shepherd or the neat, folded rectangular ears of a Shar-Pei. Some German Shar-Peis may have a more wrinkled face, but it's unlikely to be as extreme as the Shar-Pei's.

In terms of size, most German Shar-Peis stand between 18 and 20 inches tall and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds.

For your interest: German Breeds of Dogs

Chow (Chow Chow)

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The Chow Chow is a majestic breed, known for its fluffy and powerful stature. They can rock a fluffy yet dignified mane, making them look like royalty.

They are incredibly devoted to their family, but can be strong-willed and like to do things their own way. This means they'll need a dedicated owner who can train and socialize them daily.

Their aloofness around strangers is a characteristic that's worth noting, especially if you're planning to introduce them to new people.

Take a look at this: Fluffy Dogs Breeds

Golden

The Golden hybrid is a lovable companion. They tend to be loving family dogs.

Their coat can vary, but they often have a mix of their parent breeds' characteristics. This can result in a thick, wrinkled coat like the Shar Pei, or a golden, lustrous coat like the Golden Retriever.

Golden-Peis are generally easy to train, especially with early socialization. This helps prevent aggression problems and makes them a joy to live with.

Discover more: Golden Breeds of Dogs

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They're also quite playful, and love to engage in fun activities with their favorite humans. Whether it's fetch, tug-of-war, or puzzle games, they're always up for a good time.

Some Golden-Peis may be more friendly with strangers than others, but they tend to be more outgoing than typical Shar Peis.

Physical Features Expected

The German Shar-Pei is a unique-looking dog with a mix of features from its parent breeds. They typically have deep brown or hazel eyes.

Their ears can be either pointy like the German Shepherd's or neat, folded rectangular ears like the Shar-Pei's. Thick snouts are common, which can make them more prone to heatstroke.

These broad, short noses can be a distinctive feature, but they can also lead to heat-related issues. It's essential to keep them cool and hydrated, especially in warm weather.

The German Shar-Pei's body is often sturdy and square, similar to a German Shepherd's. If they have wrinkles, they might not be as extreme as the Shar-Pei's.

Here are some common physical features of the German Shar-Pei:

Temperament and Behavior

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Shar-Pei mixes can make wonderful pets for experienced owners, but they require consistent boundaries and training due to their independent and willful nature. They're intelligent, but they may be stubborn at times.

These dogs are fiercely loyal and form strong bonds with their family members, often showing devotion with lots of affection. However, they can be protective and suspicious of strangers and other dogs, making early socialization crucial to prevent aggression or anxiety.

Shar-Pei mixes are generally docile, courageous, and sturdy, but they may not be the best fit for novice owners or homes with many other animals, particularly dogs of the same gender.

Trainability

Training your mixed-breed dog can be a unique challenge. The Shar-Pei German Shepherd Mix is moderately to highly trainable, but it may have a stubborn and independent streak.

To avoid discouraging your dog, it's essential to keep training sessions short and positive. Rewarding your dog often is key to successful training.

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The Labrador Shar-Pei mix, on the other hand, can be a bit more unpredictable. They can inherit aggressive tendencies from the Shar-Pei parent breed if not trained and socialized properly from a young age.

You'll want to be patient and consistent when training your mixed-breed dog. Avoid asking for too much too soon, as this can lead to frustration for both you and your dog.

A well-trained Shar-Pei German Shepherd Mix can be a loyal and loving companion. With the right approach, you can help your dog reach its full potential.

Pit Bull

Pit Bulls are known for their potential aggression, which is a trait they share with Shar-Peis. This can be a concern for some owners.

However, with proper training, Pit Bulls and Shar-Peis can make very good family pets. In fact, they can be friendly and energetic, loving to meet new people.

Before considering getting a Pit-Pei, which is a mix between a Pit Bull and a Shar-Pei, you need to check the laws in your area. Many places have outlawed American Pitbulls and "Pitbull-type dogs" due to their reputation.

If you do decide to get a Pit-Pei, it's essential to have experience owning a Pit Bull or Shar-Pei beforehand. This will help you understand their needs and temperaments.

See what others are reading: Shar Pei Bull Terrier Mix

Boxer

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The Boxer breed is known for its gentle temperament, making it a great fit for families with children.

Boxers are also relatively easy to groom, thanks to their easy-to-maintain coat type.

Their exuberant and upbeat nature can be a bit too much for small children, but they can adapt to most households.

One thing to keep in mind is that Boxers can be a bit gassy, so be prepared for some, ahem, interesting moments in the house.

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a breed that thrives on structure and clear boundaries, and they need to know you're the alpha dog in the pack.

They can be good with children, making them a good family pet, but they're not recommended for novice owners.

Weim-Pei hybrids, a mix between a Weimaraner and a Shar-Pei, also require an experienced owner to manage their strong will.

With the right training and socialization, Weimaraners can be loving and loyal companions.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Weimaraner Dog Mix

Tosa (Japanese Tosa)

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The Tosa (Japanese Tosa) is a rare dog breed. They are often used as guard dogs, which is likely due to their vigilant and watchful nature.

The Tosa-Pei, a hybrid breed combining the Tosa with the Shar-Pei, shares some of these characteristics. They are very Mastiff-like in appearance.

In general, the Tosa is known to be placid, quiet, and obedient. This makes them a great candidate for a family pet, especially if socialized from a young age.

Temperament & Intelligence

Shar-Pei mixes can make wonderful family pets, but it's essential to understand their temperament and intelligence.

They're often calm, even-tempered, and fiercely loyal, forming strong bonds with their family members.

These dogs are intelligent enough to ace any training command, but they can be independent-minded and headstrong.

They may be protective and suspicious of strangers and other dogs, making early socialization crucial to ensure a healthy level of wariness.

Shar-Pei mixes can be remarkably intelligent, but they're also likely to be independent and occasionally willful, requiring consistent boundaries and training.

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They may latch onto one person as a favorite, so it's essential to provide equal attention and affection to all family members.

These dogs can be strong-willed, making them less suitable for novice owners or those who can't resist puppy eyes.

With proper training and socialization, Shar-Pei mixes can thrive as loving and loyal companions.

Activity Level

Shar-peis are moderately active dogs who need around one hour of exercise per day. They thrive on brisk walks and mentally-stimulating activities.

This breed is adaptable and can happily live in apartments as long as their exercise and stimulation needs are met.

Health and Care

When choosing a diet for your Shar Pei mix, it's essential to consult with your vet about the best options. They can help you decide if your pup needs a specially formulated food due to allergies or joint issues.

A raw food diet can be a good option, but it's crucial to research it properly to ensure your pup gets the necessary nutrients.

Return

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Returning home after a long day, you'll want to make sure your furry companion is healthy and happy. Some hybrid breeds, like the Shepherd-Pei, can be highly effective and loyal guard dogs, but they can also be very rowdy.

It's essential to consider the energy level and exercise needs of your dog. The Shepherd-Pei, for example, requires regular exercise to keep them calm and well-behaved.

As a responsible dog owner, you'll want to be prepared for potential vet visits and medical expenses. Some hybrid breeds, like the Shepherd-Pei, are not recommended for beginners due to their high energy levels and potential health issues.

To ensure your dog's health and well-being, it's crucial to provide a balanced diet and plenty of fresh water. This will help prevent digestive issues and keep your dog's coat shiny and healthy.

Remember, every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. With the right care and attention, your furry friend will thrive and be a loving companion for years to come.

The Health of

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The Health of Your German Shepherd Shar-Pei Mix is a Top Priority.

You can expect your German Shepherd Shar-Pei mix to live between 9 and 14 years.

Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity, which can lead to various health issues.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, including walks and playtime.

Proper grooming is essential for your Shar-Pei's skin and coat, which can be prone to skin fold dermatitis.

Clean your Shar-Pei's wrinkles daily and keep an eye out for any signs of skin irritation.

For more insights, see: German Shepherds and Pit Bulls

Food and Diet

When choosing a diet for your German Shar-Pei, it's essential to consult with your vet to determine the best course of action. They can help you decide if your pup needs specially formulated food due to allergies or joint issues.

A raw food diet can be a popular choice, but it's crucial to research it thoroughly to ensure your pup gets all the necessary nutrients.

Grooming

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Cleaning your dog's face is crucial, especially if it has a wrinkly face like the Shar-Pei. Make sure to clean and dry the skin folds to prevent skin problems.

Nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth, which can be painful for your dog.

Ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections, and it's best to speak to your vet about the best method of doing this.

Raising Puppy

Raising a puppy requires setting firm boundaries and discipline from a young age, especially for large breeds like the German Shar-Pei.

Start potty-training from the moment your pup comes home to establish good habits.

Positive reinforcement rather than punishment is key to training a Shar-Pei, as they can be extremely sensitive to their owners.

Exercise should be monitored to prevent stressing their joints as they grow.

Socialization from a young age is crucial to avoid aggression issues in the German Shar-Pei.

With proper care and attention, the German Shar-Pei will make a devoted family dog or a good pet for a single person.

Suitability and Cost

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Shar Pei mixes can be a great option for families with allergies, as they often inherit the Shar Pei's low-shedding coat.

Their energy levels vary, but many Shar Pei mixes are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only a short daily walk or playtime.

Suitable Home

When it comes to finding the right home for your Shar-Pei German Shepherd mix, experience is key. They can thrive in an experienced home where they receive proper care and attention.

A suitable home for this mix is one where the owners are familiar with their needs and can provide the necessary supervision. They can do well with children, but it's essential to keep a close eye on interactions due to their size and protective instincts.

The Price

The Price of a Shar-Pei German Shepherd Mix can vary depending on several factors, such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline.

In general, you can expect to pay between $800 to $2,000 for a puppy from a reputable breeder.

Some breeders may charge more for a puppy with a specific coat type or color, while others may offer discounts for older dogs or mixed-breed puppies.

Conclusion

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Shar-Pei mixes can be a great option for those who want a loyal and loving companion, but it's essential to remember that there's no guarantee you'll get the desired traits from both breeds.

The Shar-Pei is considered a challenging breed to own, so proper socialization and training are crucial to prevent unruly and potentially aggressive behavior.

Many owners have enjoyed loyal and loving dogs from Shar-Pei mixes, which can have a softer version of the Shar-Pei's characteristics.

There are 20 of the best-known Shar-Pei mixes, but others do exist, offering a wide range of possibilities for dog owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Shar-Pei dogs difficult?

Chinese Shar-Pei can be challenging to socialize due to their aloof nature and potential territorial instincts, but with early exposure to people, they can become well-adjusted companions. Proper training and socialization are crucial to bringing out the best in this breed.

Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.