Chow Chow vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chow Chow is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitChow ChowChinese Shar-Pei
Group
Non-SportingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
ChinaChina
Height (male)
17–20"18–20"
Height (female)
17–20"18–20"
Weight (male)
45–70 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
45–70 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
8–12 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a dignified, bright, serious-minded ancient Chinese breed with a famous purple-blue tongue. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, bright, serious-minded.

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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Chow Chow health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Skin issues
  • Bloat

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies