Australian Kelpie vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Herding · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chinese Shar-Pei is the larger breed at 45–60 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Kelpie.
  • The Australian Kelpie typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Kelpie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.
  • The Australian Kelpie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian KelpieChinese Shar-Pei
Group
HerdingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
AustraliaChina
Height (male)
17–20"18–20"
Height (female)
15–18"18–20"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
30–45 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is a clever, devoted, energetic Australian sheep musterer — outback workaholic with an off-switch problem. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as clever, devoted, energetic.

About the Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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Australian Kelpie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy
  • Cryptorchidism

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies