Shar Pei 139

The Shar-Pei is an ancient dog breed that originated in China and dates back to the Han Dynasty over 2,000 years ago. They were native to China’s southern provinces. Unlike the Pug, they were not known as a noble companion. Instead, the Shar-Pei was considered a commoner’s dog.

In particular, they were primarily used by Chinese farmers as all-around farm dogs. These wrinkly, unique dogs were prized for their intelligence, rugged versatility, and fierce loyalty. Shar-Pei could often be found working simultaneously as herders and protectors on the farm, as hunting dogs, and as family companions.

In 1949, the People’s Republic of China was established. Because dog ownership was frowned upon under this regime, many dogs were systematically slaughtered. As a result, many of the mainland’s purebred dogs were almost wiped out of existence. Thankfully, a few good Shar-Pei breeding pairs were preserved in Taiwan and Hong Kong. And so, the breed was able to survive and then thrive.

Although the first documented appearance of the Shar-Pei in the United States occurred in the mid-1960s, they did not start to gain popularity until 1973. This was the year that Matgo Law, a breeder in Hong Kong, appealed to breeders and dog fans in the United States to help save the Shar-Pei from extinction.

Dog lovers in the U.S. fell in love with the Shar-Pei’s unique looks and the story pulled at their heartstrings. From there, the Shar-Pei truly made it to the United States and the population began to increase. This outreach and ensuing intervention are credited for ensuring the breed’s survival. The American Kennel Club recognized the Chinese Shar-Pei as a member of the Non-Sporting Group in 1992.