Golden Retriever vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Sporting · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Golden Retriever typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitGolden RetrieverChinese Shar-Pei
Group
SportingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
ScotlandChina
Height (male)
23–24"18–20"
Height (female)
21.5–22.5"18–20"
Weight (male)
65–75 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
55–65 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 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.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

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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Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies