7 Shar Pei Health Problems Dog Owners Should Know

The Chinese Shar Pei is a loyal, intelligent, and unique-looking breed, beloved for its characteristic wrinkles and protective nature. But with these charming traits comes a higher-than-average risk for certain health issues—something current or prospective Shar Pei owners should understand.

At Mawoo Pets, we connect new pet parents with healthy puppies from vetted, reputable breeders who prioritize the well-being of their dogs. We specialize in breeds like the Shar Pei and Miniature Shar Pei, and we frequently hear questions about their long-term health.

This guide draws from our direct experience, customer feedback, and veterinary insights to help you better understand the most common Shar Pei health problems—and how to manage or prevent them.

1. Skin Issues and Pyoderma

Shar Peis are particularly prone to skin infections, largely due to their deep wrinkles, which can trap moisture and bacteria. One of the most common issues we see is pyoderma, a bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, itching, and sores.

We advise our new Shar Pei owners to clean and dry their dog’s folds regularly, and to look for early signs of irritation. Our breeders highlight that early socialization and regular grooming can prevent flare-ups.

For helpful at-home care tips, check out our blog on how to help your dog with allergies, which includes info relevant to skin sensitivities.

2. Shar Pei Fever (FSF) and Recurrent Inflammation

One of the more breed-specific health problems is Familial Shar Pei Fever (FSF)—a condition that causes recurring fever, swelling in the hocks, and in some cases, amyloidosis (a build-up of protein in organs that can lead to failure).

FSF is genetic. Our vet partners emphasize that early genetic screening can help detect predisposition to FSF. Our breeders typically test their Shar Pei litters using trusted labs like Paw Print Genetics.

Tip: It's best to ask your breeder if the puppy's parents have been tested for the gene associated with Familial Shar Pei Fever. Reputable breeders should be transparent about genetic health.

3. Eye Problems (Entropion)

Entropion is a condition where the eyelids roll inward, causing lashes to rub against the eyeball. This is particularly common in wrinkled breeds like the Shar Pei and often requires surgical correction.

This is one condition our breeders monitor closely their lines. If you see signs of squinting, eye discharge, or frequent blinking in your Shar Pei, we recommend having a veterinary evaluation done.

4. Allergies and Food Sensitivities

Many Shar Peis develop food or environmental allergies, which manifest as itchy skin, frequent ear infections, or digestive issues. New customers often tell us their puppies start scratching excessively within the first few weeks—usually due to diet.

We recommend a limited-ingredient, high-quality dog food, and when needed, a vet-supervised elimination diet. Our team has written in detail about how to help a dog with allergies.

5. Elbow Dysplasia

Like many medium-to-large breeds, Shar Peis can suffer from elbow dysplasia, a developmental condition that leads to joint instability and pain.

This is another area where ethical breeding matters. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic issues and provide documentation of healthy joints in parent dogs.

6. Weight Management Challenges

Shar Peis are prone to weight gain, especially if they aren’t exercised regularly. Excess weight can worsen joint problems and skin conditions. We often coach new pet parents on how to maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle for their pups.

🔗 Tips for Shar Pei weight loss

7. Aggression and Behavioral Issues

While not strictly a medical issue, behavioral challenges in Shar Peis—such as aggression or resource guarding—can sometimes stem from discomfort or health issues, particularly when a dog is in pain.

Shar Peis are known for their independence and protective nature. Inexperienced owners sometimes confuse this with aggression. It's essential to start training early and understand breed temperament.

We've written about this in more depth here: Are Shar Peis Aggressive?

The Importance of Responsible Breeding

At Mawoo Pets, we emphasize transparency, education, and ethical sourcing. Every Shar Pei and Miniature Shar Pei we list is raised by breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and screening. You can view available puppies here:

🔗 Chinese Shar Pei puppies for sale
🔗 Miniature Shar Pei puppies for sale

Final Thoughts

Shar Peis make devoted, protective companions—but they need informed, attentive care. As part of our commitment to your dog’s lifelong health, we ensure that every pet parent is educated on the most common Shar Pei health problems before and after adoption.

If you're considering bringing home a Shar Pei, we invite you to reach out to our team of experts. We're here to share what we’ve seen, what we know, and what other pet parents wish they’d learned earlier.