Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier

30-50 lbs
17-20"
United States
Chinese Shar-Pei
American Pit Bull Terrier
Sharpull, Sharpull Terrier, Pit Pei, Shar Pei, Shar Pit
The Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier is a hybrid mix of the Chinese Shar-Pei and the American Pitbull Terrier.  This hybrid combines the hunting, herding, guarding and fighting skills of the Chinese Shar-Pei with the power, aggressiveness and courage of the American Pitbull Terrier, resulting in a hybrid which, believe it or not, can be a gentle, loving, protective and courageous family pet. This courageous protector of his human family loves people, is generally friendly, but can be quite aggressive with strangers and other animals if he feels a danger exists for you.  He wants to be the center of attention...and he thinks he's a lap dog!
purpose Purpose
Companion, Watchdog
history Date of Origin
2000's
ancestry Ancestry
Chinese Shar-Pei, American Pitbull Terrier

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Health

Average Size
Male Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats
Height: 18-21 inches Weight: 35-60 lbs
Female Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats
Height: 17-20 inches Weight: 30-50 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Demodectic Mange
  • Demodicosis
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
Minor Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Ear Health and Infection
  • Third Eye (Cherry Eye)
  • Joint Dysplasia
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Cataracts
  • Deafness
  • Allergies
  • Ichthyosis
  • Skin Fold Dermatitis
  • Lens Luxation
  • Brachycephalic Syndrome
Occasional Tests
  • Joint Fluid Sample
  • Brain Auditory Evoked Response (BAER)
  • Internal Imaging (x-ray, CT scan, MRI, etc.)
  • Ear Tests and Myringotomy Tests
  • Yearly Physical Examination
  • Full Chemistry Panel Tests and Blood Count
  • Eye Examinations (both internal as well as external)
  • Dental and Oral Examinations

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Breed History

The Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier is a hybrid mix of the Chinese Shar-Pei and the American Pitbull Terrier.  While some information is available about the temperament and appearance of this hybrid, there really isn't much information available about where and when the hybrid was developed.  Though we can't be absolutely certain, we can likely assume that it originated in the United States possibly between the late 1900's and early 2000's when interest in mixing pure breeds for a variety of reasons became more popular. We'll get some background from a brief look at the parent breeds.  The Chinese Shar-Pei is a very old canine breed, originating from southern China, but the documented records for Chinese dogs, which includes this breed, are quite scarce.  Statues depicting dogs resembling the Shar-Pei have been found which date back to 200 B.C., though of particular note, the canines depicted in these pieces of art also resemble the Chow Chow and the Pug.  While they were initially owned by peasants, being bred for hunting, herding, guarding and watchdogs, eventually the upper class became interested in the breed and used them in the dog and pit fighting rings for entertainment.  This practice of dog-fighting eventually became outlawed and, when the Peoples Republic of China was created, dogs in China virtually disappeared.  A few Shar-Pei survived in Taiwan, with a man named Matgo Law being credited with saving the breed from extinction.  The Chinese Shar-Pei came to the United States in 1973 and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1992, being the 61st most popular breed in their registry.  The American Pitbull Terrier, known by many other variations of this name, is a descendant of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England.  The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, believed to be the result of crossing the old English Bulldog with a variety of terriers, emerged in the 1700's and were utilized by butchers of the time to manage bulls, also being utilized by hunters to hold bear and other wild game animals.  As time went on, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was used in the blood sports of bull and bear baiting, a practice which has been outlawed.  The Staffordshire came to America in the 1800's where it became the American Pitbull Terrier, a.k.a. American Bull Terrier, Pit Bull and later known as the Yankee Terrier.   The American Pitbull Terrier is considered an amazingly strong breed for it's medium size, has evolved into quite an awesome family and farm dog, often referred to as "nanny dogs", being very gentle around children.  Today, in addition to being great family pets, the American Pitbull Terrier is also utilized in competitive weight pulling, agility and even obedience.  The American Pitbull Terrier was officially recognized as the American Staffordshire Terrier (name changed to get away from the stigma of blood sports) by the American Kennel Club in 1936 and is the 81st most popular breed in their registry.  The Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Dog Registry of America, and the International Designer Canine Registry.

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Breed Appearance

The Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier is a hybrid mix of the Chinese Shar-Pei and the American Pitbull Terrier and, as such, can inherit the appearance traits of one or both parent breeds.  Breeders and owners of the hybrid describe him as having a stocky, heavy build but small, compact and even dainty feet!  Standing 17 to 21 inches tall at the shoulders and weighing 30 to 60 pounds, this medium to large canine has some amazing strength and power, a contribution mostly from the American Pitbull parent.  The Shar-Pei parent contributes dark eyes, dark muzzle and wrinkly skin to the bio mix with both parents contributing the short to medium length coat which is fine and straight.  The available colors for the coat of your hybrid are: black, red, fawn, sable, blue, cream, brown, gray, brindle and black and white.  Your hybrid may have eyes that are lighter in color, especially if his color is diluted, with a nose which could be any color depending on the coat color and ears which can be small, triangular and pricked, sitting high and close to the head.  His tail could be shorter or longer, set high or low and may or may not curl over his back depending upon which parent breed has the most influence in the bio mix. He could have a black or blue tongue.
Eye Color Possibilities
blue Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier eyes
Blue
hazel Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier eyes
Hazel
brown Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier eyes
Brown
amber Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
blue Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier nose
Blue
black Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier nose
Black
brown Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier nose
Brown
isabella Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier nose
Isabella
Coat Color Possibilities
black Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Black
gray Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Gray
brown Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Brown
brindle Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Brindle
blue Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Blue
fawn Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Fawn
cream Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Cream
red Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier coat
Red
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Breed Maintenance

Your Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier hybrid falls into the low maintenance category, with a low to moderate amount of shedding being possible, especially during the normal shedding seasons.  His coat is not considered hypoallergenic and will need to be brushed weekly except during those periods of normal seasonal shedding, which will likely require daily brushing to remove debris and loose hair.  Frequent vacuuming should also be expected during these seasonal shedding periods.  He is consider low in the drooling category and low to moderate in the smell category, as he needs special attention given regularly to wiping/drying the folds in the wrinkles to prevent fungal infections.  He is prone to ear infections, making weekly ear checks vital,  cleaning them as needed using a cotton ball and approved canine ear wash, to maintain good ear health.   As with all canines, dental health is important, too.  He will need to have his teeth brushed at home two or three times a week to prevent development of periodontal disease and the tooth loss which is known to accompany it.

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terriers often suffer from patellar luxation, cataracts, and other serious health conditions. Secure pet health insurance today to avoid high veterinary care costs. Our pet insurance tool lets you compare plans from leading companies like Figo and Spot. Find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!

Brushes for Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Deshedder
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Temperament

Your Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier is a hybrid mix of the Chinese Shar-Pei and the American Pitbull Terrier.  As a mixed breed, your hybrid can inherit the temperament and personality traits of either or both parent breeds.  Breeders and owners of this hybrid describe him as loyal and loving, while being quite independent at times.  This independence leads to dominance, making it vital for the owner or handler to firmly establish, at a very early age, who is in charge or there will be lifelong competition for this position between owner/handler and canine.  Due to his strong will and independence, it will be vital that he be socialized appropriately at a very young age to ensure that he'll be loving, gentle, friendly, social, affectionate, cheerful and appropriately protective. If appropriately socialized at a young age, he will likely get along with kids and other animals, but he will likely be wary of strangers.   He is quite intelligent, so barring those periodic independent streaks, he should be fairly easily trained, using positive training and encouragement methods.  He is an active canine who can develop some really annoying destructive habits if he become bored.

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Activity Requirements

Your Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier hybrid is an active canine, needing 1 to 2 hours of exercise every day without fail.  This exercise can take the form of long walks or jogs, playtime in the dog park or fenced yard, interactive games of fetch, Frisbee, fly ball, earth dog training, obedience training and weight pulling activities...or any combination thereof.  This hybrid can be a barker, so this should be kept in mind for those living in apartments, condos or other places in which noise is restricted.  Due to his size and energy levels, he is better suited to larger family homes with fenced yards but he can adapt to apartment or condo living, provided appropriate exercise opportunities are available and utilized.  He can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures in rural or urban settings, as long as appropriate extra precautions and protection is provided when those temperatures become extreme.
Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
12 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
120 minutes
activity minutes

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
2.5 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.50 - $1.90
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$39.00 - $52.00
food bag monthly cost

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats at six months
Height: 15.0 inches Weight: 37.5 lbs
Female Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats at six months
Height: 15.0 inches Weight: 30.5 lbs
12 Months
Male Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats at 12 months
Height: 19.5 inches Weight: 47.5 lbs
Female Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats at 12 months
Height: 18.5 inches Weight: 40.0 lbs
18 Months
Male Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats at 18 months
Height: 19.5 inches Weight: 47.5 lbs
Female Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier size stats at 18 months
Height: 18.5 inches Weight: 40.0 lbs

Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier Owner Experiences

Memphis
6 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Laying in the sun
Shopping
Bath time
Shake
Off-leash
Heel
Dog-friendly events
Fetch
Chase
Tug-of-war
Nap
Play
Learn a new trick
Look out the window
Groom
Road trip
Go Camping
Walk
Go to Park
Go to Beach
She loves long walks, or runs - no in-between. She follows me everywhere from room to room and often holds this cute little loving gaze. That being said she only cuddles up at night. And maybe rests her head on me during the day. Doesn’t give ‘kisses’ like other breeds. Much more reserved. I thought maybe she doesn’t like me? Even though her tail is always wagging and she seems very protective and loyal.. then I saw that it’s a trait with this mix breed. She LOVES kids. More than adults, which she is always wary of. At first I was a little embarrassed because she is so cute- people are always asking to pet her- and she walks behind my legs not in a scared way, but in a way that says uhhhh no thanks. I’m trying to encourage her to warm to people. Despite this lack of interest in strangers she loves all kinds of animals, dogs and kids. She’s only 6 months old but already stronger than me in tug of war and often goes easy on me. I’m glad I was stern and trained her from day one because she knows her place and I feel very safe with her by my side. A little power house, with the cutest rolls!!!
4 months, 3 weeks ago
TJ
12 Months
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Tug-of-war
Walk
She’s such a sweet beautiful girl. She’s very well trained and wouldn’t hurt a fly. Loves attention and affection!
2 years, 6 months ago
iris & eirene
4 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Learning
mountain climbing
Exploring
Hide & Seek
Fetch
Bird watching
we rescued two sisters from a litter, individually they are the sweetest shadows I've ever had, incredibly observant, highly intelligent. together they are near impossible to train or focus without one or the other pouncing on or racing the other, they're learning to be gentle probably slower than usual due to continued sibling wrestling but they are still great dogs, I wouldn't trade them for anything
2 years, 7 months ago
Hennessey
16 Years
1 People
Studio
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Hennessey is the greatest dog in the world. He is gentle with everyone he meets except other dogs no matter their size. He has started to slow-down a lot more.
2 years, 9 months ago
Ragnar
9 Weeks
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hide & Seek
Tug-of-war
Great dog learns rapidly great with other dog
2 years, 10 months ago
Isabell
3 Months
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Lazy when it comes to walks loves to eat and chew on things likes to sit and watch strangers pass by loves to smell everything
6 years, 8 months ago
Penny
2 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Snuggle bunny laid back and watch tv eat breakfast and can't wait for dinner
6 years, 4 months ago
Mylo Jones
3 Months
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Cuddling on the couch
Long walk,
He is definitely my snuggle buddy. He loves to smell everything and is always hungry..
5 years, 11 months ago
Roo
2 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I am an experienced dog owner, although Roo is my fist Shar-bull. Roo demands 110% attention and cannot be left in the house alone due to deafening howls. Whatever I am doing she is right behind me with a curious expression on her pretty face and no matter how little space left when I sit down, she ensures she is right next to me (or should I say squashed up against me). I love Roo like I've never loved a dog before and know she loves me back.
5 years, 9 months ago
Diego
2 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
drives
going for walks
Going for runs
He came to me as a stray, but he has made me laugh every day since I've had him, he does a tippy toes dance when he gets his breakfast and dinner, he isn't quite sure how to "dog" and by that I mean almost no commands and he doesn't like treats or to play Mich but he will definitely go for a walk so I guess I have a hiking buddy!
5 years, 7 months ago
LadyBird
12 Years
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She's stubborn and smart, but funny. She will always come outside with me at night to grab a lemon from the lemon tree. She snapped at a bee that was scaring me.
5 years, 6 months ago
Bear
10 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is so loving and has to sit in my lap every chance he gets.. he is the boss.
5 years, 3 months ago
Nala
2 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Walks
Sleeping
drives
She so sweet and loving, great with kids. Unfortunately, we've had some people get angry with us for owning a pit bull, but that's only because of their bad rap. She doesnt do too well with other animals, but means no harm and only wants to look tough while actually being quite friendly. We adopted her not too long ago, but she's settled in with us quite easily and always lightens up our day.
5 years, 3 months ago
Grandpa
1 Year
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Walks
Must be at my side or laying on top of me at all times if I am home. Prefers the cage if I am not at home. Self cages if I put my shoes on and pick up purse. Very good with grandchildren and extremely protective over them if a stranger comes into the house. Low growl but has never attempted to bite. Gets on well when his sister comes to visit.
5 years, 2 months ago
Bosko
9 Weeks
7 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Playing
Running
Bosko is quiet, calm puppy. He likes to sleep and be held
4 years, 10 months ago
Jet Jet
3 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
It is the best dog ever. Jet is only aggressive if someone harms the family. He is a very cool dog and has a face that only a mother can love. Jet is very hyper and is Healy and loves running.
4 years, 9 months ago
Mia
5 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chasing Cats
Long walks
Guard dog
Tug-of-war
Cuddles
Fetch
Mia-bear is my world she is so loving it's awesome can trust her around my friends with my family or kids mine or freinds kids she becomes extremely protective of...Mia is astronomically protective of myself I have had 1 incident where walking home late with her a group tried to jump me and she mauled 3 people and sent them to the hospital lol gave her a bag of shmackos when we got home
4 years, 9 months ago
Waylon
2 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
This is our first time having a Shar-Pei Pitbull Terrier. He is the cutest wrinkly little boy I have ever seen. He is super sweet, loves to be help when he sleeps and loves to play out doors. I would not trade him for anything in the world.
4 years, 7 months ago
Nina
3 Years
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Cuddling
Walk
Sleeping
Nina was a rescue and it’s been a bumpy but worth while ride with her! She’s the sweetest most affectionate dog towards people - she will sit in your lap and lick you and love on you for hours. That being said, she hates other dogs. I have 2 cats that’s she’s fine with, but if she sees a dog walk by she looses her mind with barking and growling. I invested a lot of money in training her which has helped tremendously. She’s extremely smart and eager to please but needs a lot of structure
4 years, 6 months ago
Luctia
1 Year
7 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Cudding
Walk
sleep
Love sleeping with people
Catch treats
Play
Fetch
My 1 year old dog love everyone Even there new people she is a very cute dog her very much
4 years, 5 months ago
Marley
3 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He’s the most perfect grand dog ever. Is protective. He loves his other 2 house dogs. Sleeps on my pillow, ....
4 years, 4 months ago
Hooker
18 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking on the beach & sand dunes
My dog is so loving and affectionate and can be really sooky.. a ton of personality.. she's great but very ignorant at times lol
4 years, 4 months ago
Puppy
12 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Beach
Independent, loyal, stubborn, friendly, polite and can be sensitive. A very good dog.
4 years, 3 months ago
Smoosh
8 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walks fetch snuggles on the couch
So far it has been a great experience I rescued her from a humane societee so she was not a tiny puppy when I got her training has gone well she is a very intelligent dog she is now starting to show some stubbornness but we are working through that with some positive reinforcement and she is responding very well smoosh is a very very lovable dog
4 years, 3 months ago
Nala
5 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Lounge cuddles
Beach runs
training
Holiday
Nala is quite regal and lion like. She is loyal, fantastic with people and young children. Easily housetrained. Starting to bark at strangers coming to house, or unusual sounds so I can see the guarding instincts coming into play. Plays well with larger dog breeds
4 years, 2 months ago
Kona
6 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking and runn
Very energetic but smart puppy. Loving and caring with my 18 month old baby
4 years, 2 months ago
zeus
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Zeus is very lovable. He can shake your hand. Play fetch. He loves walks, he pass barking dogs walking like a show dog. Love to chew his toys.
4 years ago
Spencer
10 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase
water
Rope
Walk
Mothing
Tug-of-war
Ball
I got Spencer when he was 2-3mths as he was too aggressive in his last home This little puppy Challenging 2 fully grow Rottweiler's So He is now my Pride and Joy He is Loving Shadow that wants to know my every movement, He loves being on bed next to me or his in his create as I had too Create train this Guy due to early vicious towards visitors, so very Protective and Loyal
3 years, 11 months ago
Kame
8 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Absolute pleasure. She has the best temperment!
3 years, 8 months ago
Cash
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase,
Tug-of-war
My dog just loves to cuddle beside me in bed. He loves to be fully under the covers. He is very loyal and protective and has fun destroying every toy he gets.
3 years, 7 months ago
fart
29 Years
9+ People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Farting
pooping
peeing
he ugly as hell bitch
3 years, 6 months ago
Cinnamon
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase
Walk
Our dog was rescued from a neglectful home before we got her. Socialization at a young age is so important -- because of her past she is very anxious and vocal when visitors come over. That's been our biggest struggle with her.
3 years, 5 months ago
Mighty Thor
8 Weeks
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I got my Mighty Thor at the age of 6 weeks. He and I bonded quickly. He’s a snuggler, all my other pets except 1 don’t wasn’t a thing to do with him just yet….then there is Bobby. I rescued Bobby from our local shelter a couple years ago. He was such a laid back cat… 2 days after adopting him I called the shelter to ask if they knew the cat was deaf? Of course they had no idea, anyhow that deaf cat is my boys new best friend. The two of them enter the unicorn cat tunnel at different ends, meet in the middle and begin the wrestling match..did I mention the unicorn is purely a 6ft crinkle tunnel? Lol! He definitely has the courageous attitude, he’s a talker too! He’s been a fast learner, I crate train all my dogs so he doesn’t appreciate being in his BIG crate alone, he sleeps with his head on his blue teddy .. so cute! He slobbers his water all over.. he is a drooling little man! All in all I’m quite in love with him!
3 years, 4 months ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - New pet
Question

I have questions about training, diet and more

Answer
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - My pet
Question

I have a Shar pei mix, she has a habit of biting her skin and creating spots really bad. I have tried taking her to a vet but they said it was normal. I tried coconut oil, washing her, allergy medication. I was wondering if you would be able to suggest anything to help stop it? She is 7 years old and I don't want to give her allergy drugs since they didn't help the last time and obviously don't want to put her at risk of danger

Answer
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd