In the early 1970's, there were just a few dogs, and they were the worlds rarest breed. But when the breed was exported to the United Sates, a breeding program was developed that saved the breed from extinction. Although still not common, they are far from extinction.

When the Chinese Shar-Pei first came to this country, they were expensive owing to being quite rare. Today however, Shar-Pei are a very popular breed of dog. Prices for pet quality and show quality dogs are comparable to what you would expect to pay for any other pure-bred dog. But remember the bottom line - if the dog is cheap, then there must be a reason.

Shar-Pei are intensely loyal to their family and make excellent watch dogs. Like all dogs, however, they should be socialized. Some Shar-Pei are aloof toward strangers. Because Shar-Pei have a quick intelligence and are eager to please their family, they are very easily trained, and enjoy the interaction with there owner. The Shar-Pei is a bright, affectionate dog that makes a terrific companion animal.

Shar-Pei are one of the easiest breed in the world to house break. It's not unusual for 6 to 8 week puppies to ask to go outside. New owners should take their puppies outside immediately after feeding and about once every 2 hours. Shar-Pei are fastidiously clean and are famous for holding it in until they can go outside. Of course, when they are young, taking them outside regularly will reduce an accidents in the house.

Shar-Pei do not require any special treatment when bathing. As with any other breed, you must thoroughly rinse the shampoo from the coat and wrinkles. A good dog shampoo and a simple toweling down is all that's required. The short coat naturally air-drys in a few moments.

Shar-Pei come in about every color there is: black, red, fawn, cream, sable, blue, chocolate.

The Shar-Pei have a high intelligence, so training should be vaired to keep the dog interested.

The adult Shar-Pei wrinkling is confined mainly to the forehead and withers. However, some have more wrinkles than others. As the pup matures, the body will grow into most of its skin.

The Shar-Pei snore, some more then others. As with all squashed-faced breeds, Bulldogs, Pugs, etc., snoring and snorting go hand-in-hand.

Shar-Pei shed once a year to lighten their dense coat for the summer.

Shar-Pei live to be approximately 8 to 12 years of age but some have been known to live as long as 15 years or more.

Only after they eat do they get slobbery due to water getting trapped in the folds of their muzzle. They do not drool/slober at any other time, and simply need their mouth cleaned after (wet) meals.

Shar-Pei should have a well balanced, preservative free diet and one that is low in proteins. Anything with soya, beef, lamb or other red meat should be avoided. Adding rice and vegetables to meat will increase the bulk of the food, and reduce the quantity of protein consumed. Ensure that water is available at all times, to avoid any dehydration problems.

Shar-Pei requires minimal maintenance. Gentle brushing with a good bristle brush keeps its unique coat in excellent condition