"The name 'shar-pei' literally means 'sand-skin'. The short, harsh coat, and loose skin covering the head and body, the small ears, the 'hippopotamus' muzzle shape and the high set tail give the shar-pei a unique look all of its' own. The Chinese shar-pei is regal, alert, intellegent, and dignified. He may appear independent, snobbish, and standoffish with strangers. But is extremely devoted to his family. The Chinese shar-pei has been described as 'people dogs,' preferring the companionship of humans to that of other dogs."
