Shar-pei are powerful yet somewhat compact guardians with a loyalty that very few breeds can match. While these wonderfully wrinkly woofers can make pawfect pets for the right home, there are a litany of shar-pei mixes that are also worth considering.
We’ll share some of our personal favorite shar-pei mixes and tell you everything you need to know about them below!
Shar-Pei Basics
While you can never truly predict the exact temperament, appearance, or traits of a mixed pup, understanding the parent breeds can give you a rough insight into what to expect.
We’ll kick things off with a quick overview of the shar-pei’s qualities. However, do note that we always recommend doing thorough research before committing to a breed. This is especially the case for shar-pei dogs. Although they make wonderful companions, they come with some unique challenges that cause many first-time pet owners to struggle.
History
The shar-pei is an ancient dog breed who is thought to have originated from southern China more than 2,000 years ago. He was initially kept by peasant farmers and bred as an all-purpose work dog capable of guarding, herding livestock, and hunting.
But nowadays?
You’re more likely to see him as a beloved family companion, guarding the home or snuggling up on the couch!
Appearance
Shar–pei are some of the most unique looking woofers out there.
Their powerfully-built, compact bodies are covered in wrinkles, folds, and… more folds (yep, even more than your typical pug). They also have broad muzzles and blue-black tongues.
Most shar-pei stand 18 to 20 inches tall and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds.
Temperament
The shar-pei is calm, even-tempered, and fiercely loyal. He forms strong bonds with his family members and shows his devotion with lots of affection. While he’s intelligent enough to ace any training command thrown at him, he’s independent-minded and can be somewhat headstrong.
This breed works best with experienced pet parents; the shar-pei is not a great choice for first-time dog owners.
The shar-pei is protective and often suspicious of strangers and other dogs. He needs plenty of socialization from an early age to ensure his wariness stays at a healthy level and doesn’t lead him to act in an aggressive or anxious manner.
Activity Level
Shar-pei are moderately active woofers who need around one hour of exercise per day. They love brisk walks, mentally-stimulating enrichment activities, and play sessions with their families. Most shar-pei are adaptable and can happily live in apartments as long as their exercise and stimulation needs are met.
Did you know that the plural of shar-pei is simply shar-pei?
The breed name doesn’t change whether you’re talking about one pooch or several. Other breed names that work this way include Maltese and chow chow.
We applied this same approach to the mixed-breed names below.
21 Great Shar-Pei Mixes!
So, get ready for wrinkles galore! Here are 21 great shar-pei mixes that are sure to turn your house into a home (albeit a fluffy, slobbery one at that!).
1. Cocker-Pei (Shar-Pei x Cocker Spaniel)
Brimming with a bouncy, happy-go-lucky attitude, the Cocker-Pei is a woofer that’s sure to melt your heart. He’s playful, lively, and incredibly affectionate with the people he bonds with.
He does tend to require more exercise than a purebred shar-pei, but the perk of that is that it’ll definitely help you get your daily steps in! Plus, it makes him well-suited to more vigorous activities, like hiking or tug-of-war.
Most Cocker-Pei have low-maintenance coats, though pups that inherit the shar-pei’s wrinkles will need a little more TLC during grooming sessions.
Check out some more cocker spaniel mixes!
2. Lab-Pei (Shar-Pei x Labrador Retriever)
This gorgeous woofer is the definition of photogenic — just look at those poses! — and when he’s not seeping up attention from the camera? You’ll usually find him splashing around the water, enjoying a game of fetch, or snoozing next to his favorite human. You might also find him on top of your bed in the morning, drowning you in an endless amount of licks (don’t say we didn’t warn you).
Most Lab-Pei stand around 23 inches tall and inherit the Lab’s coat type. They’re generally more people-pleasing than purebred shar-pei, but some may still exhibit stubbornness without proper training and socialization.
3. Pit-Pei (Shar-Pei x American Pitbull Terrier)
Both shar-pei and pit bulls have pretty similar temperaments — so, you can expect a woofer who’s confident, devoted, and incredibly intelligent.
Pit-Pei are great pups for experienced owners seeking a solidly built woofer to keep them company throughout the day. However, they aren’t ideal for multi-pet households; they have a high prey drive and some can be standoffish around other dogs.
4. Bull-Pei (Shar-Pei x English Bulldog)
The Bull-Pei is a popular mix between a shar-pei and an English bulldog. Both parent breeds are sporting some impressive wrinkles, so you can bet that a Bull-Pei is going to be wrinkles galore — making the mix all the more endearing, in our book!
Bull-pei are generally docile, courageous, and sturdy. However, they can be strong-willed and aren’t ideal for novice owners (or for those who can’t resist puppy eyes…).
Want to check out more great bulldog mixes?
5. Ori-Pei (Shar-Pei x Pug)
The Ori-Pei is one of the most adorable mixed breeds out there — just look at his endearing expression, soft wrinkles, and fluffy paws! But this pup has a lot more to offer than just his puppy-eyed appearance; he’s gentle, affectionate, and incredibly doting.
Plus, most Ori-Pei stand smaller than regular shar-pei, making the breed better suited to apartment life.
6. Chow-Pei (Shar-Pei x Chow Chow)
This majestic mix looks like he’d settle for nothing less than a golden throne (okay, he may compromise and accept his favorite human’s lap, if it’s warm and snug!). He’s incredibly fluffy, powerful in stature, and typically rocks a fluffy yet dignified mane.
The Chow-Pei is devoted to his family, but he is strong-willed and likes to do things his own way. He can also be aloof around strangers. Considering these factors, he’ll need a dedicated, firm owner who can train and socialize him daily.
Check out these amazing chow-chow mixes!
7. Shepherd-Pei (Shar-Pei x German Shepherd)
Pairing the shar-pei with a working dog like the German shepherd can make for a fantastic, energetic companion! He thrives when given a job to do, and while he may need a little extra guidance to grow into a well-adjusted, confident adult, he’s sure to reward your commitment to his care with affection, loyalty, and pure woofin’ goodness.
Shepherd-pei do best in households with secured yards, where they put their sniffers to good use and release their excess energy. Most shepherd-pei inherit the distinctive brown and black coat markings of their German shepherd parent.
8. Sharberian Husky (Shar-Pei x Siberian Husky)
If they’re anything like their husky parents, Sharberian Huskies are sure to “wow” you — and all your neighbors — with their stage-worthy pipes!
Put simply, they’re vocal dogs who aren’t afraid to communicate their needs through howls, grunts, woofs, whines, and other talkative noises.
When they’re not making a ruckus, you’ll usually find these pups getting up to goofy antics, demanding affection, or keeping watch over their favorite humans.
9. Rott-Pei (Shar-Pei x Rottweiler)
With the Rottweiler being one of the most loving, heart-melting breeds out there, and the shar-pei being a devoted protector, you’re definitely in for a treat with this mix! Most pups are immensely affectionate and will stay by their owners’ sides through thick and thin (yes, even if you run out of treats).
Rott-Pei are also immensely smart. With the right training approach, and a little consideration for their independent streak, they can pick up advanced commands in seconds. The only potential “con?” of this mix? Your clothes will probably be drenched in slobber for years to come (but hey, it’s a true sign of love!).
10. Sharpoodle (Shar-Pei x Poodle)
Lively with an endearingly sweet soul, the Sharpoodle is a canine companion you don’t want to sleep on! He’s faithful, enthusiastic, and settles into family life nicely.
While the Sharpoodle tends to have a soft, sensitive side — which can be difficult to manage if you try to leave the house for long periods of time — it does make him more attuned to his owner’s emotions. So, you can betcha that any tears will be swiftly cleaned up by his affection, love, and probably tongue (face kisses are pretty polarizing, we know).
Take a peek at these poodle mixes!
11. Golden Pei (Shar-Pei x Golden Retriever)
We’ve mentioned some pretty nifty work-a-holic woofers so far on our list, but how about a pup you can just goof around with? Enter the Golden-Pei — the ultimate play-o-holic. He’ll practically never turn down a fun game with his favorite humans, whether fetch, tug-of-war, or puzzle games!
Golden-Pei tend to be more friendly with strangers than typical shar-pei, though some can still be standoffish around strangers.
12. Shar-Akita (Shar-Pei x Akita)
The Shar-Akita is a mix of two independent-minded woofers, so he’ll need plenty of training and socialization to keep his stubbornness in check. But with the right owner? This headstrong pup will reward you with steadfast loyalty and a fur-ever best friend.
Shar-Akitas tend to be fairly aloof and enjoy their own space, so they’re a great option for pup parents who aren’t after a Velcro dog (or don’t want to be covered in fluff 24-7).
13. Sharp Eagle (Shar-Pei x Beagle)
Besides having the coolest name ever (“Sharp Eagle” sounds like a fantastic superhero name!) this mix is quick-witted, highly adaptable, and boasts a top-notch sniffer (so no, your carefully hidden snacks aren’t safe).
Most Sharp Eagles are slightly smaller than typical shar-pei, making them ideal canines for people seeking a shar-pei’s qualities in a more manageable, compact package.
Check out some more beautiful beagle mixes!
14. Box-a-Shar (Shar-Pei x Boxer)
The Box-a-Shar is an exuberant, upbeat mix whose heart is even bigger than his size! He is known for his hilarious antics, sleek-muscled look, and gentle temperament. While his rowdiness may be a bit too much for small children, this is a great breed for children and can adapt to most households.
Most Box-a-Shars inherit the boxer’s easy to groom coat type. However, although their coats stay relatively clean, their, ahem, backsides are a whole other matter. Expect a whole lot of flatulence (which can be downright deadly).
15. Ba-Shar (Shar-Pei x Basset Hound)
The Ba-Shar tends to be a lot more laidback and easygoing than a standard shar-pei. Now, we’re not saying he’s the doggo equivalent of Garfield – he’ll still require up to an hour of exercise per day — but he does have a particular affinity for snoozing in the sun.
Do be warned though: Most Ba-Shars inherit the basset hounds’ incredible nose and are easily led astray by interesting smells. You’ll want to supervise these pups at all times and keep them on a leash in unsecured areas.
Learn some more breeds with the best sense of smell!
16. Boston Pei (Shar-Pei x Boston Terrier)
The Boston Pei enjoys his own company, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t affectionate! He’s gentle, sweet-natured, and loves cuddling up with his owner. Plus, he’s incredibly loyal and makes a fantastic watchdog.
Unfortunately, like most other short-faced dog breeds, many Boston Pei suffer from brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS) since both parent breeds are prone to this. They’ll need regular vet checkups and owners should be extra cautious when exercising these woofers in hot weather (i.e. you might have to skip beach day).
17. Weim-Pei (Shar-Pei x Weimaraner)
The Weim-Pei is an adorable mix between the shar-pei and Weimaraner. Most Weim-pei inherit the shar-pei’s protective nature and the Weimarener’s work-oriented mindset, making them high-energy dogs who thrive with active families.
Weim-Pei typically stand slightly larger than purebred shar-pei, with most reaching around 25 inches tall and weighing between 60 and 80 pounds. While this allows them to take on some heavy-duty work, it also means they aren’t ideal pups for apartments.
Check out some other Weimaraner mixes!
18. Shar-Tzu (Shar-Pei x Shih Tzu)
The Shar-Tzu is an unusual but super lovable mix between the shar-pei and shih tzu. Both breeds have fairly distinct characteristics, making this pup’s personality hard to predict, but they do have some similarities, including their affectionate natures, intelligence, and independent streaks.
Shar-Tzus come in a range of colors and typically stand up to 18 inches tall. Pups that inherit the shih tzu’s low-shedding coat are easy on allergies (but do note that there is no such as a truly hypoallergenic pup).
19. Rus-a-pei (Shar-Pei x Jack Russell Terrier)
This pup isn’t for the fainthearted; he’s spritely, feisty, and packed with boundless energy. While he’ll need a little extra guidance, and plenty of exercise throughout the day, with the right family he makes a wonderful, loyal companion you can’t help but fall in love with!
He also tends to be pretty playful and can tolerate some roughhousing. Thanks to his Hulk-like strength, he makes a particularly great playmate for tug-of-war.
Most Rus-a-Pei inherit the Jack Russell’s handsome coat markings, so he’s sure to be the talk of the park and elicit dozens of “awws” (keep away, pup-arazzi!).
Wanna see some more Jack Russell mixes?
20. Frenchie Pei (Shar-Pei x French Bulldog)
Mixed with the most popular breed in America — the French bulldog — the Frenchie Pei is sure to leave your heart swooning with his endearing wrinkles, puppy-eyed stare, and bright, playful personality. He’s also one of the smallest Shar-Pei mixes out there, with most only growing up to 15 inches tall at the withers.
21. Heeler Pei (Shar-Pei x Australian Cattle Dog)
The Australian cattle dog is a compact but muscular herding dog who’s loyal, tenacious, and highly intelligent. Combine that with the shar-pei’s traits? You get a mix who’s tremendously loyal and smart enough to master any command thrown at him.
He can be stubborn though, so he’ll need an owner who can be firm, consistent, and patient with training.
Shar-Pei Mixes: FAQ
Still have some pressing questions about shar-pei mixes? We’ll address some frequently asked questions surrounding these woofers below.
What is the temperament of a Shar-Pei Terrier mix?
The Shar-Pei Terrier is a loyal and courageous companion. While he can be standoffish around strangers, he is incredibly gentle at heart and loves spending time with his family.
Most Shar-Pei Terrier mixes are energetic and need plenty of exercise, play sessions, and mental stimulation throughout the day to stay happy and fit.
What is the lifespan of a Shar-Pei mix?
The exact lifespan of a shar-pei mix can vary depending on several factors, including lineage, the other parent breed, lifestyle, and health issues. Generally, most shar pei mixes live for 10 to 14 years with proper care.
Why are Shar-Pei so rare?
Shar-pei nearly went extinct in the mid 1900’s due to the war, political climate, and introduction of a hefty dog tax in China. In fact, The Guiness Book of World Records listed the shar-pei as the rarest dog breed in the world in the late 20th century!
Fortunately, shar-pei breeder Matgo Law, who resided in Hong Kong, contacted American magazines and appealed for help in saving the breed from extinction. Shar-pei puppies quickly became highly sought after and the breed spiked in popularity once more.
Today, shar-pei are no longer likely to disappear entirely, but they are still rare and purebred pups come with a hefty price tag.
What is a pitbull and Shar-Pei mix called?
Like most mixed breeds, an American pitbull terrier and shar-pei mix can go by many names, including Shar-Pei Terrier, Sharpull, Sharpull Terrier, Pit-Pei, Shar-Pit, and Shar-Pei Pitbull. The most common moniker we’ve seen is the Pit-Pei (not surprised, since it has a nice ring to it!).
Shar-pei mixes may be fairly uncommon, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth your time and consideration! They make devoted, affectionate companions who’ll be there for you even on the toughest of days.
Are you the proud pup parent of a shar-pei mix? What do you love most about him (if you can even choose just one trait!). Let us know in the comments below!
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