The Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient breed of dog from the country of China.  They are a distinctive breed, easily recognized by their wrinkled skin and blue/black tongue.  Once the Chinese Shar-Pei was a fairly unknown breed outside its native land, but now is known and recognized in many countries throughout the world.
   
    Chinese Shar-Pei stand between 18-20 inches and weigh between 40-55 pounds.  In China they are known as the pinyin, which literally translates to “sand skin”, because of the rough texture of their coat.  The amount of wrinkles in their skin varies from dog to dog, and adults have less wrinkles then puppies.  Coat colors can be any color, although brown is the most common.  Spotted and part colored coats due occur, although they are a disqualifying feature according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).  The tail on the Chinese Shar-Pei is carried high and curls at the end.
   
    The exact history of the Chinese Shar-Pei is unknown, although recent DNA testing shows it to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the world.  Some believe that the ancestor of the breed is the Chow Chow, although there is nothing to tie the two breeds together save the color of their tongues and the location from which they both originated from.  Originally the breed was used as a general farm dog, used for hunting and protection of livestock, land, and family.  In later year it was used for dog fighting.  In more recent years the breed was almost pushed to extinction, and at one point was listed as the rarest dog in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records.  The Breed caught the attention of the American public and now the Chinese Shar-Pei is a very popular breed there.
   
    Chinese Shar-Peis are very loyal to their owners, and can sometimes be a one person dog.  However when raised in a family setting this is usually not a problem.  Generally they get along well with children and cats as long as they have been around them since puppyhood.  Socialization is important, especially with other canines, as the Chinese Shar-Pei can tend to be dog aggressive.