As the name suggests, the Chinese Shar-Pei originated in China, where it dates back almost 2,000 years. On the verge of extinction in the early 1970's, today these dogs have made an incredible recovery. Owing to their intelligence and wonderful personalities, as well as their remarkable appearance, they have become one of the fastest growing breeds of companion dogs in North America. They were originally used as temple guard dogs, fighting dogs and, for inferior stock, as food.

The Shar-Pei is a medium sized but very powerful dog. Preferred size for males is 18-20 inches at the shoulder and an average of 40-55 pounds. Females are generally a little smaller. There are two basic coat types. The horse coat, which many consider to be the "true" Shar-Pei, is as the name suggests, extremely short and similar to that of a horse. The brush coat is somewhat longer, but should not exceed 1" at the withers (coats exceeding 1" are referred to as "bearcoats" and are disqualified in the show ring). Both coat types should be very harsh to the touch and absolutely straight. Horse coats tend to have the harsher coats and, indeed, can cause "prickles", similar to a heat rash, on the skin of some humans. All solid colors except albino are acceptable for show and no one color is to be preferred in the show ring. All colors, except the dilutes, should have solid blue-black tongues and flews. True dilute colors do not have ANY dark pigmentation, but have self colored noses and lavender tongues. Dogs with mixed pigmentation, either in coat or in their mouths, are referred to as "flowered" dogs - they are penalized in the show-ring and are less desirable as breeders.

Loyal and affectionate towards their families and gentle with children, they are usually reserved and aloof with strangers. They are very protective of their homes and do not tend to be a "wandering" breed. Because they are a powerful dog with an independant nature, it is wise to start them in obedience traing when they are quite young. Shar-Pei are exceptionally clean dogs, easily house trained at a very early age. They do not shed heavily on a day to day basis, however they do periodcially experince a shedding condition known as "blowing coat". This sudden and sometimes drastic loss of hair generally lasts several weeks, usually following a stressful situation such as a heat cycle, whelping, illness or emotional trauma, as well as a normal "seasonal" blowing. It is completely normal for Shar-Pei and should never be mistaken for a skin problem.

The Shar-Pei is, of course, the original "wrinkles dog". Buyers should be aware, however, that Shar-Pei are usually heavily wrinkled only as pups. Most adults "fill out their skins", retaining only a few wrinkles on their faces, over their shoulders and at the base of their tails. A healthy adult Shar-Pei is a powerful and striking looking dog that usually bears little resemblance to the woesomely cute puppies.

Although they bear a reputation for many peculiar illnesses and ailments, the health of these dogs has come a long way in the last decade. Dedicated and responsible breeders have eliminated or reduced many of the earlier problems. Many of today's Shar-Pei suffer no more ailments than any other pure breeds and can look forward to a life-span of 10 years or more. However, there are still a few problems which all buyers should be aware of before committing to this wonderful breed (see health issues). As always, careful selection of a sound, healthy puppy from a reliable and responsible breeder is the best insurance against a dog with serious health problems.