What is the appearance of an adult Shar-Pei dog? - briefly
The adult Shar-Pei dog is known for its distinctive wrinkled skin and small, dark eyes. Its body is compact and muscular with a blue-black tongue and a high-set tail that curls over its back.
What is the appearance of an adult Shar-Pei dog? - in detail
The Chinese Shar-Pei, also known as the Chinese Fighting Dog, is renowned for its distinctive and wrinkled appearance. Adult Shar-Peis typically stand between 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 45 to 60 pounds, with females generally being smaller than males. Their most striking feature is their loose, wrinkled skin, which is particularly prominent on the head, forming a characteristic pattern that resembles a hippopotamus or a Shar-Pei's signature "horse coat." The excess skin around the neck, shoulders, and back gives the dog a unique, rugged appearance.
The Shar-Pei's head is broad with a square muzzle, and their ears are small and triangular, set high on the head and often folded forward. Their eyes are almond-shaped and dark, with a keen and intelligent expression. The breed's tail is thick at the base and tapers to a point, carried high over the back when the dog is alert or excited.
The coat of an adult Shar-Pei is short, dense, and rough, providing excellent insulation against both cold and heat. It comes in various solid colors, including black, blue, cream, red, and sable, as well as combinations such as dilute red, fawn, and brindle. A unique feature of the Shar-Pei is the presence of a "blue" or "mottled" tongue, which is often seen in this breed.
Overall, the adult Chinese Shar-Pei presents a robust and muscular build, with a broad chest and well-developed limbs. Their wrinkles add to their distinctive character, making them easily recognizable among other dog breeds.