Collection: Personalised Shar Pei Gifts

Instantly recognisable, these dogs are known globally because of their special wrinkly faces, short bristly coat and blue tongues. A bit less crinkly now in the 21st century than when they first emerged from China in the 1970s, the new improved Shar Pei is absent many of the hereditary health issues which have plagued this breed.

One of the most expensive dogs you can buy, they are a real theft risk due to their high value. Expect to pay a starting price of £1,500 for a puppy but it could be even more.

Possibly one of the oldest dog breeds on the planet, statues still exist of this dog which date back to around 200 BC and the Han dynasty although some people maintain that these icons could also resemble the Chow or the Pug.

The Shar Pei originated in southern China where he was bred to be a hunter, herder and a fighter but after the creation of the People’s Republic of China, the breed went into serious decline.

A dedicated breeder in Hong Kong plus someone else in Taiwan managed to preserve the numbers and export to other countries like the UK and American began in the 1970s. The Shar-Pei was accepted into the American Kennel Club Miscellaneous Class in 1988. The name, Shar Pei, actually means ‘sand skin’.

The Shar Pei is a laidback and calm breed and makes a lovely family pet. Their relaxed nature means they are happy to live in a flat or apartment but beware of their innate guard dog tendencies; the Shar Pei can be very protective over his family.