The Origin of the Shar-Pei's Distinctive Wrinkles

In search of a dog that commands attention? Look no further than the Shar-Pei. With their signature loose, wrinkled skin and distinctive hippopotamus-like face, Shar-Pei are truly one of a kind in the canine world.

Hailing from China, the Shar-Pei's name translates to "sand skin." This sturdy breed, typically standing around 2 feet tall (0.6 meters) and weighing between 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kilograms), perfectly reflects its name.

The Shar-Pei's coat is short, coarse, and drapes in heavy folds across its head, neck, and shoulders. Typically fawn-colored, the breed can come in up to 17 different colors according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). In addition to their distinct muzzle, Shar-Pei have small, deep-set eyes and tiny ears, while their tongues are blue-black.

However, it's the wrinkles that truly make the Shar-Pei unforgettable. Dr. Kerstin Lindblad-Toh of Uppsala University in Sweden explains in an email interview that these wrinkles are the result of the hyaluronic acid synthase 2 (HAS2) gene. "HAS2 encodes an enzyme that produces hyaluronan, a crucial skin component," she says. "Hyaluronan accumulates in the Shar-Pei's thickened skin, causing the wrinkles."

In simple terms, hyaluronan is like a "gel" that surrounds the skin cells. It helps keep the skin hydrated and elastic. In Shar-Pei, the HAS2 gene is overly active, producing an excess of hyaluronan, which leads to their distinctive wrinkles—especially noticeable in puppies. As the dog matures, these wrinkles become more prominent around the face, head, and neck.

How to Keep Your Shar-Pei in Top Condition

The genetic cause behind the Shar-Pei's wrinkles helped Dr. Lindblad-Toh and her team unlock an important clue in a 2011 study, which linked the breed to a common canine illness.

The study connected the HAS2 gene with the Shar-Pei's susceptibility to periodic fever disease, also known as Familial Shar-Pei Fever (FSF). Symptoms of FSF include sudden fever episodes and overall fatigue. According to Lindblad-Toh, hyaluronan is the culprit behind the fever, and the team's findings support this theory.

The researchers began by comparing the Shar-Pei genome with other dog breeds, and then with both healthy and sick Shar-Pei, searching for the mutation linked to the fever. Every time, they reached the same conclusion. "In the study, we identified a mutation in a strand of DNA that affected both the fever syndrome and the wrinkled skin," explains Lindblad-Toh. "This duplication mutation was located near the HAS2 gene. The more copies of the mutation, the higher the levels of HAS2 and the more severe the periodic fever syndrome."

What does all this mean? Shar-Pei are not only genetically prone to periodic fever disease, but they are also at risk for Shar-Pei Autoinflammatory Diseases (SPAID), according to Lindblad-Toh. "Several symptoms of SPAID include recurring fever, arthritis, dermatitis, otitis (ear infections), and systemic reactive amyloidosis (an inflammatory condition affecting organs)," she says. Fortunately, Shar-Pei can be tested for SPAID, allowing owners to make more informed decisions about breeding.

Shar-Pei dogs can face several health challenges due to their unique physical traits. The folds in their skin make them prone to skin conditions and a serious eye problem called entropion, which occurs when the eyelid (usually the lower one) folds inward, irritating the cornea. The breed is also vulnerable to other eye issues such as glaucoma, a condition that can lead to blindness due to increased eye pressure; retinal dysplasia, a hereditary condition that causes retinal malformation; "cherry eye," which involves a prolapsed gland in the third eyelid; chemosis, a swelling of the eye lining commonly seen in young Shar-Pei; and Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS), a rare disease causing blindness.

The Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America also recommends that dog owners screen their pets for several potential health concerns, including:

The Social Nature of the Shar-Pei

With their cuddly appearance, it’s only natural to wonder if Shar-Pei make good family pets. The answer depends on your needs. According to the AKC website, Shar-Pei puppies tend to do better with older children. While some people interpret their facial expressions as a scowl, others see them as smiling naturally, but one thing is clear: Shar-Pei are intelligent, dignified, and independent. They are renowned for their loyalty and were originally bred as guard dogs and hunters—a trait that still defines their behavior today.

Your Shar-Pei will require a firm hand. Be prepared to invest in both obedience training and socialization because, while your Shar-Pei may adore you, they tend to be wary of strangers and other dogs. Don’t mistake their calm demeanor for indifference. If they sense a threat to their territory, they will defend it with unwavering resolve.

Shar-Pei enjoy a casual stroll, but they don’t need it too often—usually once or twice a day is sufficient. Be cautious in the summer, as they don’t handle heat well. It’s a good idea to check out the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America website for a wealth of information about the breed, including health tips, training advice, and breed standards. Purebred Shar-Pei puppies can be pricey, ranging from $600 to $1,000 or more, though owners will insist they are worth every penny.