Chinese Shar-Pei
Strong-willed and devoted to family
Shar Peis 101
Non-SportingOnce one of the rarest breeds in the world, the Chinese Shar-Pei is much more common today. The breed's blue-black tongue, tiny ears and plentiful folds of skin make these dogs impossible to mistake for any other breed. They are intelligent dogs who will not back down from a threat, making them a breed best for experienced owners.
What we love about Shar Peis
Have your history ready: This breed will start many a conversation
Energy level
Energy level: 50% (Moderate)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 18 to 20 inches tall. This is a Medium sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 18 to 20 inches
- Lifespan
- 8 to 12 years
- Weight
- 45 to 60 lbs
The Chinese Shar-Pei stands 18 to 20 inches tall and weighs 45 to 60 lbs. Chinese Shar-Peis have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Chinese Shar-Peis get?
- Chinese Shar-Peis stand 18 to 20 inches tall and typically weigh between 45 and 60 pounds.
- How long do Chinese Shar-Peis live?
- The average lifespan of a Chinese Shar-Pei is 8 to 12 years.
- Are Chinese Shar-Peis good for first-time dog owners?
- Chinese Shar-Peis have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Chinese Shar-Peis bark a lot?
- Chinese Shar-Peis are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Chinese Shar-Pei health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Shar Pei
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
Mid-life Chinese Shar-Peis should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Kidney failure poses very high risk. Ear infection and Skin allergies are at high risk.
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- High Risk
- Skin allergies
- High Risk
80% on risk scaleSenior Shar Pei
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
Senior Chinese Shar-Peis face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Kidney failure and Lymphatic cancer and Skin cancer pose very high risk.
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Lymphatic cancer
- Very High Risk
- Skin cancer
- Very High Risk
Shar Pei puppy
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
Chinese Shar-Pei puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Ear infection and Conjunctivitis pose very high risk. Skin allergies is at high risk.
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
- Conjunctivitis
- Very High Risk
- Skin allergies
- High Risk
Young adult Shar Pei
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
As Chinese Shar-Peis grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Corneal (eye) ulcer and Kidney failure and Ear infection pose very high risk.
- Corneal (eye) ulcer
- Very High Risk
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
Mature adult Shar Pei
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
Mid-life Chinese Shar-Peis should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Kidney failure poses very high risk. Ear infection and Skin allergies are at high risk.
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- High Risk
- Skin allergies
- High Risk
Senior Shar Pei
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
Senior Chinese Shar-Peis face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Kidney failure and Lymphatic cancer and Skin cancer pose very high risk.
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Lymphatic cancer
- Very High Risk
- Skin cancer
- Very High Risk
Shar Pei puppy
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
Chinese Shar-Pei puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Ear infection and Conjunctivitis pose very high risk. Skin allergies is at high risk.
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
- Conjunctivitis
- Very High Risk
- Skin allergies
- High Risk
Young adult Shar Pei
Risk level for common Shar Pei conditions
As Chinese Shar-Peis grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Corneal (eye) ulcer and Kidney failure and Ear infection pose very high risk.
- Corneal (eye) ulcer
- Very High Risk
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Chinese Shar-Pei's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 9 months)
- Ear infection: Very High Risk, Conjunctivitis: Very High Risk, Skin allergies: High Risk
- Young Adult (10 months to 3 years)
- Corneal (eye) ulcer: Very High Risk, Kidney failure: Very High Risk, Ear infection: Very High Risk
- Mature Adult ()
- Kidney failure: Very High Risk, Ear infection: High Risk, Skin allergies: High Risk
- Senior (5+ years)
- Kidney failure: Very High Risk, Lymphatic cancer: Very High Risk, Skin cancer: Very High Risk
"Shar-Pei" means "sand skin" and refers to the breed's harsh, short coat.
Chinese Shar-Pei coat care and colors
The Shar-Pei's short, bristly coat isn't hard to care for – regular brushing will keep it in good shape – but those skin folds can be troublesome. Keep them clean and dry, and watch for any odors or signs of infection. Acclimate to nail trims early to avoid struggles down the road.
What kind of brush should I use on my Chinese Shar-Pei?
What kind of brush should I use on my Chinese Shar-Pei?
What is the best shampoo for my Chinese Shar-Pei?
What is the best shampoo for my Chinese Shar-Pei?
How often should I bathe my Chinese Shar-Pei?
How often should I bathe my Chinese Shar-Pei?
Shar Pei exercise & training
Shar Pei fun facts
Top girl names for Shar Peis
of Shar Peis are female
of Shar Peis are male
Top boy names for Shar Peis
Nationwide loves Chinese Shar-Peis of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Chinese Shar-Peis insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Chinese Shar-Pei statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Shar Peis
Best. Chinese Shar-Pei insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free