Temperament
Aloof, Independent, Loyal, Calm.
Health problems to know about
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed. Veterinary organisations in several countries urge buyers to choose dogs with longer muzzles or health-tested parents, because breathing problems are common and can be severe.
- Shar-Pei fever and renal amyloidosis
- Entropion
- Skin fold dermatitis and other skin disease
- Ear infections (narrow ear canals)
- Hypothyroidism
Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.
Daily care
Moderate daily walks, avoiding heat. Check and dry skin folds, eyes and ears at least weekly. Socialise early to temper its natural suspicion of strangers, and ask breeders about Shar-Pei fever in their lines.
A good fit for
Calm adult homes, experienced owners, people who want a quiet, watchful dog.
Probably not ideal for
Homes with young children or several dogs, hot climates, owners unprepared for skin and eye vet bills.
Sources
Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.
