Where the Chinese Shar-Pei came from
The Shar-Pei is a wrinkled guard dog from southern China. There are no solid records of the breed's start, but dogs like it are said to have guarded property for a very long time.
In the 1970s the breed was close to disappearing. In 1973, a Hong Kong businessman named Matgo Law appealed to dog lovers abroad, including the AKC, to help save it. In 1978, the Guinness Book of Records called it the world's rarest breed.
Demand then jumped in the United States. The AKC recognized the Shar-Pei in 1992. Today they are mostly family dogs, known for their loose skin, small ears and loyal, serious nature.
- 1973 Matgo Law of Hong Kong appeals for help to save the breed
- 1978 The Guinness Book of Records lists the Shar-Pei as the world's rarest breed
- 1992 AKC recognizes the Chinese Shar-Pei
The job a Chinese Shar-Pei was bred for
Shar-Pei were property guards. That is why many are suspicious of strangers, serious about their space and not eager to share with other dogs.
What you may see at home
Serious, suspicious of strangers, can be selective with dogs.
Give them: Early socialization, scent work, and a calm place to settle.
Sports that fit a Chinese Shar-Pei
- Scent work. A calm, steady job that builds confidence
- Rally. Short, clear obedience work
- Tracking. Gives a guard breed a nose job
- Trick dog. Food based fun that strengthens the bond
Training tips for a Chinese Shar-Pei
- Socialize early with people and dogs, and reward calm, polite behavior.
- Keep sessions short, calm and food rewarded. Avoid harsh handling.
- Teach a reliable settle and a place cue for when visitors come.
- Practice handling for skin, ears and eyes, because the folds need regular care.
Body and health
The folds and loose skin need regular cleaning. Skin and ear problems are common, and the breed is known for a condition called Shar-Pei fever. Turned in eyelids are also known. Work with your vet.
Fun fact. In 1978, the Guinness Book of Records named the Shar-Pei the world's rarest breed, with only 60 left.
Breed is where we start
A study of more than 18,000 dogs found breed explains only about 9 percent of the differences in behavior between dogs (Morrill and others, Science, 2022). So your Chinese Shar-Pei is a starting guess, not a label. We find the drive your dog actually runs on, give it a job, and teach you to read them.
Free tools for your dog
- Breed drive calculatorMixed breed? Add the other breeds and see the drives your dog was bred with.
- Dog breed quizTen photos, four names each. The same quiz our trainers take.
- Dog drive testAnswer everyday moments and find the job your dog runs on.
Looking for a different breed? See what 137 breeds were bred to do, and download any of their guides.