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Chinese Shar-Pei Dog Breed

Chinese Shar-Pei standing in front of a house.

Chinese Shar-Pei standing in front of a house.

Close-up photo of a Chinese Shar-Pei dog.

Chinese Shar-Pei standing outside in the yard.

The compact, medium-sized Chinese Shar-Pei is an amalgam of odd physical traits: a broad “hippopotamus” muzzle; a blue-black tongue; small, sunken eyes with a scowling expression; tiny triangular ears; abundant folds of loose skin about the head, neck, and shoulders; the tapered high-set tail—all blanketed by a harsh, sandpapery coat. (A literal translation of Shar-Pei: “sand skin.”)

LATEST ARTICLES

Lisa Myers | Asia Chinese Shar-Pei

Lisa Myers | Asia Chinese Shar-Pei

Lisa Myers is the breeder behind Asia Chinese Shar-Pei. Read about the kennel’s beginnings, puppies, and much more!

March 9, 2024

Chinese Shar-pei breed judging in the dog show ring

Points to Consider When Judging the Chinese Shar-pei

Ann Cookson points out some peculiarities of the Chinese Shar-pei that may affect how the breed is judged in the AKC conformation show ring.

March 4, 2023

Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-Pei – Silhouette of Desire

The Chinese Shar-Pei’s silhouette: topline dipping behind the withers and rising over a broad, short loin, high-set tail and up-tilted anus. The silhouette formed by the topline dipping slightly behind the withers then rising over a broad, short loin with flat croup, extremely high-set tail, and up-tilted anus is unique in the dog world.

February 24, 2023

Dr-Amanda-Bauer with a Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-Pei – Inside the Hippo Muzzle

The Chinese Shar-Pei has hippo-like muzzles and wrinkled features. A blue-black tongue and mouth pigment are hidden behind those padded lips.

February 20, 2023

Rumples Chinese Shar-pei | Cyndi Skinner

Interview with purebred Chinese Shar-pei Breeder Cyndi Skinner – Rumples Chinese Shar-pei, by Allan Reznik.

July 13, 2022

Find a Breeder or Rescue

The best way to ensure a long and happy relationship with a purebred dog is to purchase one from a responsible breeder. Not sure where to begin?

Contact the National Parent Club’s Breeder Referral Program, which is listed on the AKC Breeder Referral Contacts page.

Find a Chinese Shar-Pei Puppy

Find a Breeder or Rescue

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