| Height | 18-20 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 45-60 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 8–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Independent / Loyal / Calm [1] |
| AKC group | Non-Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | China [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 80 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Individual dogs Shar-Pei vary in their exercise needs. This is a very adaptable breed. They can do well with a very active owner, walking every day, or living in an apartment with a few short walks. [1]
Grooming
The Chinese Shar-Pei requires only minimal grooming. They need a bath only every month or so. Nails should be trimmed once a week, ideally using a grinder. [1]
Health issues to budget for
There are some unusual and specific health concerns in the Chinese Shar-Pei breed. One of the major problem areas is the eyes; eye disorders including entropion, glaucoma, retinal dysplasia, and SARDS are known to occur in the breed. Other conditions that can occur include respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, immune-mediated, skin, and gastrointestinal disorders, and certain cancers. The website of the breed's national parent club, the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America, provides detailed breed-health information for owners. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Thyroid Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Chinese Shar-Pei in 1992. [1]
- It ranked No. 80 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 59 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Shar-Pei.” [1]
- The AKC lists China as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, Hip Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
Common questions
How long do Chinese Shar-Peis live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 8-12 years.
How big does a Chinese Shar-Pei get?
AKC breed information lists height 18-20 inches and weight 45-60 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Chinese Shar-Pei?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Chinese Shar-Pei, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.