Shar Pei Health Guide
A unique breed with unique health challenges—from Shar Pei Fever to skin folds that need daily attention.
8-12
Years Lifespan
45-60
Pounds
Very High
Health Needs
~23%
Have Shar Pei Fever
Breed-Specific Health Challenges
Shar Peis have unique health needs due to their wrinkled skin, narrow ear canals, and genetic predisposition to Familial Shar Pei Fever. They require more maintenance than most breeds—be prepared for regular skin care, ear cleaning, and veterinary monitoring.
Why Shar Peis Need Extra Care
The Shar Pei's distinctive wrinkled appearance comes with significant health trade-offs:
- Shar Pei Fever (FSF): A unique inflammatory condition that can lead to kidney failure
- Skin fold infections: Wrinkles trap moisture and bacteria
- Entropion: Eyelids roll inward, damaging the eyes
- Chronic ear infections: Tiny ear canals are prone to problems
Major Health Conditions
1. Familial Shar Pei Fever (FSF)
~23% affectedAn inherited autoinflammatory condition unique to Shar Peis. Causes recurring episodes of high fever and swollen joints. The danger is that chronic inflammation leads to amyloidosis and kidney failure.
Fever episode signs:
- • High fever (104-107°F)
- • Swollen, painful hocks (ankles)
- • Swollen muzzle
- • Lethargy, won't eat
- • Episodes last 12-36 hours
Management:
- • Colchicine (prevents amyloidosis)
- • NSAIDs during episodes
- • Regular kidney monitoring
- • Track fever frequency
Critical: Dogs with frequent FSF episodes are at high risk for amyloidosis and kidney failure. Regular kidney function tests (BUN, creatinine, urinalysis) are essential.
2. Entropion (Eyelid Problems)
Very commonThe eyelids roll inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea. Extremely common in Shar Peis due to their facial structure. Causes pain and can lead to corneal ulcers and blindness.
Signs:
- • Excessive tearing
- • Squinting
- • Eye discharge
- • Pawing at eyes
- • Corneal cloudiness
Treatment:
- • Surgical correction (often needed)
- • May need multiple surgeries
- • Eye drops for corneal protection
- • Puppies may need temporary tacking
3. Skin Fold Infections (Pyoderma)
Very commonThe signature wrinkles trap moisture, heat, and bacteria, leading to skin fold infections. Requires lifelong maintenance.
Signs of infection:
- • Redness between folds
- • Foul odor
- • Discharge or moisture
- • Itching, licking
- • Hair loss in folds
Prevention:
- • Clean folds weekly (or daily if needed)
- • Use gentle, vet-approved cleanser
- • Dry thoroughly after cleaning
- • Check for early signs regularly
4. Chronic Ear Infections
Very commonShar Peis have uniquely narrow, tight ear canals that trap moisture and debris. Chronic ear infections are one of the most common problems in the breed.
Signs:
- • Head shaking
- • Scratching at ears
- • Foul odor
- • Discharge
- • Pain when touched
Management:
- • Weekly ear cleaning
- • Vet-prescribed ear cleaner
- • Treat infections promptly
- • Surgery to open canals (severe cases)
5. Hypothyroidism
CommonUnderactive thyroid is common in Shar Peis. Can worsen skin problems and cause weight gain, lethargy. Easily managed with daily medication.
Signs:
- • Weight gain
- • Lethargy
- • Skin problems worsen
- • Hair loss
Treatment:
- • Blood test to diagnose
- • Daily thyroid medication
- • Regular monitoring
- • Excellent response to treatment
Shar Pei Care Routine
Weekly Maintenance
- Clean skin folds: Weekly minimum, daily if infection-prone
- Clean ears: Weekly with vet-approved cleaner
- Check eyes: Watch for squinting, discharge, redness
- Monitor for fever: Know FSF signs and track episodes
Emergency Signs:
- High fever (over 104°F) with swollen joints
- Severe eye pain or sudden vision changes
- Signs of kidney failure (vomiting, not eating, weakness)
- Severe skin infection with fever
Understand Your Shar Pei's Health Better
Upload your Shar Pei's bloodwork for instant, AI-powered explanations—especially important for monitoring kidney function.
Upload Your Dog's Records FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What is Shar Pei Fever?
Familial Shar Pei Fever (FSF) is an inherited inflammatory condition causing recurring episodes of high fever (104-107°F), swollen hocks, and lethargy. About 23% of Shar Peis are affected. It can lead to amyloidosis and kidney failure.
What is amyloidosis?
Amyloidosis occurs when abnormal proteins deposit in organs, especially the kidneys. It's strongly linked to Shar Pei Fever. Dogs with recurring fever episodes are at high risk for kidney failure. Regular kidney function monitoring is essential.
What is entropion?
Entropion is when eyelids roll inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the eye. Extremely common in Shar Peis—many need surgery. Signs include excessive tearing, squinting, and eye discharge.
How do I care for Shar Pei skin folds?
Clean between folds weekly with gentle cleanser, dry thoroughly, and check for redness or odor. Some dogs need daily cleaning. Skin fold infections are very common and require prompt treatment.
Why do Shar Peis get so many ear infections?
Shar Peis have tiny, narrow ear canals that trap moisture and debris. Weekly ear cleaning is essential. Some need surgery to open the ear canals.
What is the lifespan of a Shar Pei?
Shar Peis typically live 8-12 years. Lifespan can be shortened by Shar Pei Fever leading to kidney failure. Regular veterinary monitoring helps catch problems early.