Imagine a dog that looks like a miniature battle fortress, all folds, serious face, compact power, yet inside is a creature that often acts more royal than rough. That’s the Shar-Pei: ancient, noble, full of personality… and with a few quirks you absolutely need to understand.
Not sure if you and wrinkles are a match? Try our Which Dog Breed Is Best for Me? Quiz before you dive in.
Great Names for a Shar-Pei
These dignified dogs deserve names that echo strength, heritage, or unexpected softness:
Regal & strong: Emperor, Jade, Qin, Zhen, Kai, Xi
Soft contrast: Blossom, Willow, Pearl, Luna, Ivy, Belle
Bold & edgy: Fang, Onyx, Sable, Bolt, Rex, Vex
Heritage nods: Ming, Chen, Mei, Shui, Lei, Tao
Want hundreds more ideas? Go browse the Dog Name Generator on CrazyDogs.club.
Exercise
Don’t expect a Shar-Pei to run forever; they’re more about measured patrol than marathons. But they still need a daily dose of movement or they’ll grumble (sometimes quite literally).
What works:
- ~1 hour of activity per day (walk + gentle play)
- Secure off-lead areas (if well trained and safe)
- Short bursts or sniffing breaks rather than long endurance runs
- Puzzle games to keep their mind working
“They are a wonderful delight … very unique. The most obvious ‘bad’ is that some are prone to health issues.”
Temperament
Under that serious face is a dog with boundaries. Shar-Peis tend to be aloof with strangers, but fiercely loyal to their inner circle. They respect calm confidence — they won’t bend well to weakness.
You’ll often see:
- Reserved greeting of strangers
- Deep loyalty to “their people”
- Independent streak — won’t obey just because you demand it
- Sensitive nature — loud voices or rough handling can backfire
“They are stubborn, loyal, very smart … I’ve owned 4 Pei … they wrap you around their paw and you enjoy the ride.”
Training
Training a Shar-Pei is less about push and more about giving them a reason to comply. They’re smart and will work — but they decide whether it’s worth it.
Training tips:
- Start early with socialisation (people, dogs, places)
- Use rewards, not force — praise, treats, toys that matter to them
- Keep sessions short and varied
- Establish clear boundaries and structure
“They are independent thinkers … not always motivated by food or approval, so they are challenging to train.”
Strangers & Watchdog Potential
A Shar-Pei doesn’t bark for fun. They’ll observe, judge, and might alert. But their method is more “silent guard” than alarm bell.
- Often quiet unless provoked
- Wary of strangers until trust is earned
- Good for alerting more than confronting
Other Animals
Shar-Peis can live with other dogs and pets, but they typically prefer their own pace. With proper intro and ongoing management, many do well.
- Introduce on neutral ground, supervise early
- Monitor interactions with small creatures (cats, rabbits)
- Respect their space when they’re unsure
Grooming
Short coat — low on fluff, but big on skin care. Their folds are a beauty and a potential source of trouble all in one.
Routine care:
- Weekly brushing to remove dead hairs
- Regular cleaning and drying of skin folds to prevent infections
- Ear checks (narrow canals, moisture is enemy)
- Occasional baths, but don’t overdo — skin needs natural oils
Wrinkle Care Warning
Folded skin can hide moisture, bacteria, and infections. If you skip fold-care, you’ll pay with flare-ups and vet trips.
Health
This is where Shar-Pei ownership demands serious attention. Their signature wrinkles and structure bring several risks.
Common concerns:
- Skin fold dermatitis, infections
- Eye issues: entropion, cherry eye, eyelids mis-rolling
- Ear infections (small ear canals)
- Shar-Pei Fever & Amyloidosis — periodic fevers and kidney issues
- Possible hip dysplasia
“He has bad skin that she has spent thousands on… his temperament is really bad too … she dare not let him off the lead.”
For breeder & screening tips, use our Best in Breeder Guide.
Cost of Ownership
Shar-Peis aren’t cheap; many costs hide beneath the wrinkles. In the UK, expect:
- Puppy price: £1,200–£2,500 (depending on heritage, health checks)
- Insurance: £60–£120+/month (due to skin, eye, kidney risk)
- Food: ~£40–£70/month (moderate size but healthy diet)
- Vet & specialist care: £200–£500/year; treatments for skin, eyes, or Shar-Pei Fever can cost more
- Grooming / fold care supplies: £10–£30/month (cleaning materials, special washes)
Famous Owners & Moments
- The Shar-Pei is an ancient breed from China; its wrinkles weren’t just aesthetic — they had purpose historically (deterrent, protection).
- Modern Shar-Peis became rare in the mid-20th century, revived by dedicated breeders.
- They are often used as guardians and companion dogs, prized for loyalty and distinctive looks.
Myth-Busting
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “They’re always friendly with strangers.” | Many are cautious and aloof until they trust you. |
| “All those wrinkles are cute, not work.” | They are adorable — and also require diligent care to prevent health issues. |
| “They’re easy dogs to own.” | Not for novices. They demand careful management, structure, and veterinary diligence. |
FAQs
Are Shar-Peis good family dogs?
They can be, with the right socialisation and clear rules from day one.
Do they drool much?
Not especially — their muzzle is short, but skin folds around the muzzle may get damp.
Are they easy to train?
They’re intelligent, but also independent — you’ll need consistency, patience, and reason.
How much exercise do they need?
Around an hour a day — moderate, not marathon.
Thinking of Bringing One Home?
If you’re drawn to something rare, dignified, and with serious character, the Shar-Pei might be that dog. But don’t take its wrinkle appeal lightly: it comes with health demands, training, and patience.
Use our New Puppy Paw-rent Planner and immortalise those unique folds with a Custom Cartoon Pet Portrait.
Breed Stats
- Size: Medium
- Weight: ~18–27 kg
- Lifespan: ~10–12+ years (varies by health)
- Best Trait: Loyalty, distinctive look, dignity
- Challenging Trait: Health risk, skin/eyes, independent temperament