The Shar-pei is an older breed dating back to 206 BC. The mixes of Shar-peis vary based on the dog they have been crossed with. It is important to research the history of both dogs to know their temperament and common health concerns. They have a black and blue tongue, which ancient cultures believed would ward off evil spirits.
The Shar-pei mix breed is a large dog with wrinkled skin. Based on the breed they are mixed with, they can have a wide body or a flat head. They are usually quite thick and their skin is wrinkly to touch. They have almond-shaped eyes which are a distinguishing feature. The Shar-pei is normally larger in stature, standing around 20 inches tall and weighing in at 55 pounds.
Personality
The Shar-pei mix is an incredibly loyal dog to their handler. They love to be playful and active, but are brave and dominate by nature. They do bond well with their family, but can be aggressive around strangers. As long as they are introduced to children at a young age, they will make for great companions. They are usually easy going by nature and loving and devoted to everyone in the family. Due to their large size, they are not great in apartments. It is best to have them in a home where they have a yard to run around in. The Shar-pei mix needs a confident master to listen to. If you do not have a calm, firm nature, they will rule the house. They can become extremely stubborn and bold if they feel they are superior to their owners. Socialization is important to help them get along with other dogs. When they are mixed with other breeds, they are usually referred to as “yuppie-puppies.”
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Mix |
| Function: | Companion |
| Origin: | China |
| Preferred Climate: | Cold |
| Group: | Non-Sporting (Utility) |
| Life Span: | 8-10 Years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Shar Pei Mix Build Information
The Shar-pei mix breed is a large dog with wrinkled skin. Based on the breed they are mixed with, they can have a wide body or a flat head. They are usually quite thick and their skin is wrinkly to touch. They have almond-shaped eyes which are a distinguishing feature. The Shar-pei is normally larger in stature, standing around 20 inches tall and weighing in at 55 pounds.
| Size: | Large |
| Length (Male): | 13-20 in. |
| Length (Female): | 18-20 in. |
| Weight: | 41 - 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 4 - 5 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | No |
Behaviour and Personality
The Shar-pei mix is an incredibly loyal dog to their handler. They love to be playful and active, but are brave and dominate by nature. They do bond well with their family, but can be aggressive around strangers. As long as they are introduced to children at a young age, they will make for great companions. They are usually easy going by nature and loving and devoted to everyone in the family. Due to their large size, they are not great in apartments. It is best to have them in a home where they have a yard to run around in. The Shar-pei mix needs a confident master to listen to. If you do not have a calm, firm nature, they will rule the house. They can become extremely stubborn and bold if they feel they are superior to their owners. Socialization is important to help them get along with other dogs. When they are mixed with other breeds, they are usually referred to as “yuppie-puppies.”
| Activity Level: | Moderately Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
| Barking: | Quiet |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Dominating |
| Energy Level: | Moderately Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | Moderate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
Grooming needs of Shar-pei mixes are minimal, but you need to clean and check their facial wrinkles regularly.
| Colors: | Apricot, Black, Blue, Chocolate, Cream, Fawn, Light Brown, Parti-color, Red, Sable |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Dense |
Shar Pei Mix Common Health Conditions
This is a breed that is prone to several health conditions. They often end up with kidney failure and have fever and swollen hocks syndrome. Despite the misconception, they are not prone to skin problems related to their wrinkles. A Shar-pei mix with skin issues will have them due to a hereditary condition from the breed they have been crossed with. They are prone to mast cell tumors, which can make them weak. It is important to look at the health conditions of the other breed to know what you might end up facing with your loving companion.
Shar Pei Mix Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Due to their wrinkles, they are sensitive to warm weather. You must provide them with shade in the summer, or consider keeping them indoors where they can stay cool. As long as they are given enough exercise, they will be peaceful inside the home. The Shar-pei mix is a great breed for a loyal, loving, family dog. They are sweet and loving and very playful. Their average lifespan is around 10 years.
| Training: | Easy |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | No |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | No |