Papillon vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Toy · Toy vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chinese Shar-Pei is the larger breed at 45–60 lbs (males) vs 5–10 lbs for the Papillon.
  • The Papillon typically lives longer (14–16 years).
  • The Papillon has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Papillon is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPapillonChinese Shar-Pei
Group
ToyNon-Sporting
Size
ToyMedium
Origin
FranceChina
Height (male)
8–11"18–20"
Height (female)
8–11"18–20"
Weight (male)
5–10 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
5–10 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–16 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Papillon

The Papillon is a friendly, alert, happy butterfly-eared toy — the most trainable toy breed, fixture in agility podiums. Originally from France, this toy toy breed typically weighs 5–10 lbs and lives 14–16 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, alert, happy.

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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Papillon health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Dental issues
  • Progressive retinal atrophy

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies