Chinese Shar-Pei

How rare are Chinese Shar-Peis compared to other dog breeds?

The Chinese Shar-Pei was once considered one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. By 1973, there were only eight known individuals in the United States, and the breed had nearly reached extinction in its native China due to historical political and social factors, including high taxes and breeding bans.¹

However, the breed’s status changed significantly in the late 20th century. Following a concerted effort by breeders and international publicity, the population rebounded dramatically; by 1986, there were approximately 13,000 Shar-Peis in the United States alone. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1992.¹

Today, while the Shar-Pei is no longer considered critically rare, it does not rank among the most popular breeds in the United States, such as the French Bulldog or the Labrador Retriever, which consistently dominate current popularity charts.²³

How much exercise and grooming do Chinese Shar-Peis require?

The Chinese Shar-Pei requires a moderate amount of daily exercise, such as a walk or a game session. Owners should be mindful to prevent the dog from overheating, and because the breed is not particularly adept at coming when called, it should only be let off-leash in fenced areas.¹

Regarding grooming, the Shar-Pei’s coat—which comes in “horse,” “brush,” or “bear” varieties—is generally easy to maintain and requires only weekly brushing. However, the breed’s signature folds and wrinkles demand more diligent attention. These areas must be inspected frequently, ideally on a daily basis, and must be cleaned and dried regularly to prevent irritation or skin-fold pyoderma, an inflammation caused by bacteria.¹

What is the average lifespan of a Chinese Shar-Pei?

The average lifespan of a Chinese Shar-Pei is 8–12 years.¹

What roles have Chinese Shar-Peis traditionally played, and how are they typically used today?

The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient breed that has served various functions throughout its history. Originally developed in ancient China around 200 BCE, the breed was primarily used for hunting and guarding. Later, it became a popular fighting dog; its loose skin provided a tactical advantage, as it made the animal difficult for opponents to grasp and helped protect its internal organs during combat.¹

Today, the Chinese Shar-Pei is primarily kept as a companion animal. Due to its confident and protective nature, it serves as an excellent watchdog and a capable protection dog. While the breed is generally not suited for agility or obedience trials, many owners find that their dogs enjoy activities such as lure coursing and nose work. Because they can be aloof or suspicious toward strangers and sometimes aggressive toward strange dogs, they are typically not well-suited for dog parks.¹