Irish Wolfhound vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Hound · Giant vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei typically lives longer (8–12 years).
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitIrish WolfhoundChinese Shar-Pei
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
IrelandChina
Height (male)
32–34"18–20"
Height (female)
30–32"18–20"
Weight (male)
120 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
105 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–8 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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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Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies