Shar Pei Lab Mix: What To Expect From These Wrinkly Breed?

A Shar Pei Lab mix blends the trainable, friendly Labrador with the strong-willed, independent Shar Pei. This crossbreed has a muscular build, loose, wrinkled skin, a short muzzle, and ears that stand when alert. Though protective, they are also social and devoted to family.

They require consistent training and early socialization to nurture their best qualities. Energetic and playful, daily exercise satisfies their needs. With their Lab loyalty and Shar Pei determination, these dogs make sensitive, steadfast companions when properly handled.

Origin Of The Shar Pei Lab Mix

The Shar Pei mix is a designer mixed breed dog that is a cross between the Chinese Shar Pei and Labrador Retriever from different parts of the world.

Origin Of The Labrador Retriever

The origin of the Labrador Retriever can be traced back to Newfoundland, Canada, in the early 1800s. These intelligent, friendly, and versatile dogs were originally bred to assist fishermen with retrieving fishnets and hauling ropes from boats due to their exceptional swimming abilities and strong work ethic.

In the 19th century, British sportsmen visiting Newfoundland took notice of these purebred dogs, eventually importing several specimens back home to develop the breed through selective breeding programs.

This marked a new chapter in the history of these large dogs as they became gradually refined into distinct versions: English Labradors and American Labradors.

Origin Of The Chinese Shar Pei

The Shar Pei is an ancient Chinese breed believed to have originated around 200 BC during the Han Dynasty. Their distinctive physical characteristics, such as loose, wrinkly skin, short, rough coats, and black tongues, made them popular among aristocrats and royals.

Over time, China’s political climate led to a decline in the Shar Pei population. However, in the 1970s, thanks to dedicated dog enthusiasts like Matgo Law in Hong Kong, who sought to revive this unique breed by bringing it into America.

Today’s Shar Peis are globally recognized by various kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) since 1992.

Shar Pei Lab Mix Appearance

The Shar Pei Lab mix can have features from both parent breeds, such as the loose skin folds and wrinkles of the Shar Pei or the sturdy structure and coat colors of Labs, making them an intriguing mixed breed worth exploring further.

Labrador Retriever Appearance

Labrador Retrievers are known for their athletic, well-balanced appearance and sturdy structure. These medium to large-sized dogs weigh between 55-80 pounds and stand about 21-24 inches tall at the shoulder.

One of the most recognizable features of a Labrador Retriever is its short, dense coat, which comes in three primary colors: black, chocolate, and yellow.

The breed’s smooth double coat sheds moderately but protects them from harsh weather conditions when working or playing. Labs also possess expressive almond-shaped eyes that can be brown or hazel depending on their coat color and long floppy ears that hang close to their cheeks.

Shar Pei Appearance

The Shar Pei Lab mix has a unique and distinct appearance that combines both parent breeds. The Chinese Shar Pei is known for its loose, wrinkled skin folds, making it easy to identify.

On the other hand, the Labrador Retriever has a muscular and athletic body with straight ears and an otter-shaped tail.

However, when you see a Lab Pei dog, they have inherited some physical characteristics from their parents, such as overlapping ears similar to those of the Shar Pei or floppy ears resembling those of the Labrador Retriever.

They also usually have almond-shaped eyes in brown or black color like their parents’ breeds.

Lab Pei Appearance

The Lab Pei, a mix of the Shar Pei and Labrador Retriever breeds, can have a variety of appearances due to their mixed heritage. Most commonly, they have medium-length fur with colors ranging from cream to black.

Like the Shar Pei parent breed, they have loose facial skin and overlapping ears. Their eyes are almond-shaped and dark in color. Their sturdy structure is inherited from both parent breeds but usually resembles that of the Labrador Retriever more than that of the wrinkly Shar Pei.

Lab Peis also tend to be medium-sized dogs, with males weighing 55-70 pounds and females weighing 45-60 pounds on average. Their vital statistics may vary depending on which parent they take after, more predominantly. However, both parents are known for being muscular and athletic breeds.

Shar Pei Lab Mix Temperament

The Lab Pei’s personality traits and compatibility with families may surprise you.

Personality Traits

The Shar Pei Lab mix has unique personality traits that make them lovable pets. These traits include:

1. Independent: The Shar Pei Lab mix can be independent, so you need to give them space to do their own thing.
2. Loyal: This breed is known to be loyal to their owners and will protect them fiercely.
3. Protective: They are good watchdogs and have protective instincts, making them an excellent choice for households with children or other pets.
4. Loving: Despite their protective nature, the Shar Pei Lab mix loves their family and wants nothing more than to spend time with them.
5. Affectionate: This breed loves affection from its owners and will cuddle up next to you on the couch or in bed.
6. Intelligent: A Shar Pei Lab mix is an intelligent breed that can learn new commands quickly and be stubborn.
7. Trainable: Being intelligent makes this breed highly trainable regarding obedience training and tricks.
8. Alert: This breed has a naturally alert personality, which makes them excellent guard dogs that can spot any potential danger around the house.
9. Lordly: This trait comes from its Chinese origin as the Chinese considered Shar Pei’s lordly animals due to their wrinkles and loyalty towards the owner.
10. Social: Adequate socialization at an early age will ensure that your pet grows into a social dog who is friendly towards strangers, kids, and other pets alike.

These traits make the Shar Pei Lab mix a delightful companion with a unique personality!

Compatibility With Families

Shar Pei Lab Mixes can make great family pets with proper socialization and training. These dogs are affectionate, intelligent, alert, energetic, social, protective, and loyal.

They have an even-tempered personality inherited from their parents, making them good watchdogs and great with kids and other pets.

Families looking to adopt a Shar Pei Lab Mix should consider whether their home environment suits this breed.

While Shar Peis aren’t always the best match for households with young children or other pets due to their dominant nature, Labradors tend to be more friendly in those situations very quickly.

Socialization And Training

Socializing the Shar Pei Lab mix is crucial to prevent timidness or aggressiveness.

Importance Of Socialization

Proper socialization is crucial for a Shar Pei Lab mix to become a well-behaved and confident family pet. Socialization involves exposing your dog to different people, places, and situations in a positive and controlled manner from a young age.

Early socialization helps prevent fearfulness, anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral issues that may develop in adulthood.

To ensure the successful socialization of your Shar Pei Lab mix puppy or adult dog, start by introducing him slowly to new sights, smells sounds. Gradually increase the level of interaction over time while rewarding good behavior with treats or praise.

Going on walks in different locations or taking your pup on car rides can be great opportunities to introduce them to new experiences safely. Never force any interactions but instead allow your dog’s curiosity naturally guide them as they explore their surroundings.

Training Tips

Proper training is essential for Shar Pei Lab mixes to ensure they become well-behaved, happy pets. Here are some tips to help with their training:

1. Consistency is vital – make sure everyone in the household is on board with the same approach to training and that the rules are clear and consistent.
2. Use positive reinforcement – reward good behavior with praise, treats, or playtime.
3. Start early – begin socializing and training your Lab Pei puppy as soon as possible to establish good habits while they’re young.
4. Keep sessions short but frequent – aim for several shorter training sessions throughout the day rather than one long session.
5. Be patient – Shar Pei Lab mixes may have a stubborn streak, so it’s important to stay calm and patient during training sessions.
6. Find a professional trainer if needed – consider hiring a professional dog trainer with mixed breeds experience to help with more challenging behaviors.
7. Practice obedience training regularly – teaching basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come” can help establish boundaries and improve overall behavior.
8. Provide mental stimulation – offer puzzle or treat-dispensing toys that can mentally challenge your dog and keep them occupied.
9. Avoid punishment-based approaches – instead of scolding or yelling at your dog when they do something wrong, redirect their behavior or use positive reinforcement to reinforce good behavior.
10. Consider agility or other activities – Shar Pei Lab mixes can benefit from activities like agility courses or nose work that physically and mentally stimulate them.

You can train your Shar Pei Lab mix to be a well-behaved companion for years with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Health Concerns And Care

Labrador Health Issues

Labrador Retrievers are prone to various health issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, tricuspid valve dysplasia, muscular dystrophy, and progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for the dog as they age.

Additionally, Labs may be prone to obesity if overfed or not given enough exercise. Ear infections can also be a problem for Labs due to their floppy ears that do not allow proper ventilation in the ear canal.

It’s vital for Lab owners to regularly clean their dog’s ears and monitor any signs of infection or irritation.

Shar Pei Health Issues

Shar Peis are prone to various health issues and may pass some down to their crossbreed offspring. One common problem is skin allergies, leading to chronic dermatitis and itching.

Shar Peis are also known for their excessive wrinkles and skin folds, which make them susceptible to bacterial infections like pyoderma or fungal infections.

Another issue the breed faces is a cherry eye, a glandular problem when the third eyelid becomes swollen and protrudes from the eye’s corner.

Common Health Issues In Shar Pei Lab Mixes

Lab Peis can inherit health problems from both parent breeds, which may include:

• Skin allergies and dermatological issues due to Shar Pei’s wrinkles and the Lab’s thick coat
• Ear infections due to Shar Pei’s ear shape and the Lab’s floppy ears
• Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly, causing pain and mobility issues
• Eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy or tricuspid valve dysplasia
• Deflated muzzle that may cause breathing difficulties
• Cherry eye is a condition where the gland in the third eyelid protrudes from its normal position
• Mast cell cancer, common cancer found in both breeds
• Pyoderma, a bacterial skin infection caused by excessive licking of skin folds

Grooming And Maintenance Of Lab Pei’s Coat

Regular grooming and maintenance are crucial to keep your Shar Pei Lab mix looking and feeling its best.

Shedding of Lab Pei

The Shar Pei Lab mix has a short, rough coat that sheds minimally. While this is good news for owners who dislike excess fur over their furniture and clothing, it doesn’t mean shedding won’t be an issue.

Monthly brushing is required to remove excess debris and loose fur from the coat. This helps with shedding and promotes healthy skin and coat growth.

Owners should also regularly wipe any areas where dirt or debris may collect, such as skin folds or paws, to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other microorganisms that could lead to infections or irritation.

Grooming Tips For Lab Pei

Lab Peis have unique grooming requirements due to their wrinkles and skin folds. Here are some grooming tips to keep your furry friend healthy and happy:

1. Clean the skin folds regularly with a damp cloth to prevent yeast and bacteria buildup.
2. Brush your Lab Pei crossbreed’s coat at least once a month to remove excess debris and loose fur and distribute natural oils.
3. Use a mild shampoo designed for dogs when giving them a bath to avoid drying out their skin.
4. Dry your dog thoroughly after bathing or swimming to avoid moisture accumulation in the folds.
5. Trim your Lab Pei’s nails every three weeks or as needed, using sharp clippers designed for dogs.
6. Clean their ears once a week with ear cleaning solution and cotton balls to prevent wax buildup and infections.
7. Use veterinarian-recommended products for flea and tick control, heartworm prevention, and deworming.
8. Regularly brush their teeth with dog toothpaste to prevent dental problems like tartar buildup, gum disease, and bad breath.
9. Check their eyes weekly for redness, discharge, or cloudiness symptoms that could indicate infections or other eye problems.

By following these grooming tips, you can help maintain your Lab Pei’s optimal health condition while strengthening the bond between you two!

Exercise And Activity Requirements For Lab Pei

The Lab Pei requires at least an hour of daily exercise, consisting of a moderate to strenuous walk and playtime, as both the Labrador Retriever and the Shar Pei are active breeds that enjoy outdoor activities.

Daily Exercise Needs For Chinese shar pei mix

Lab Peis is a medium-energy breed that requires regular physical activities to maintain optimal health and happiness. The exercise needs of Lab Peis vary depending on their traits, with Labrador Retrievers needing at least one hour of exercise daily, while Shar Peis require moderate exercise.

Providing Lab Peis with enough mental stimulation and physical activity is essential, as a lack of it might lead to destructive behavior or anxiety-related issues.

Regular walks around the neighborhood can be an effective way for them to get moderate exercise until they are capable enough for more strenuous activities.

Mental Stimulation For Lab Shar Pei

A Shar Pei Lab mix is a high-energy dog that requires physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Mental stimulation is essential to their overall well-being, as it helps keep their minds sharp and fosters good behavior.

One way to stimulate your Lab Pei mentally is through interactive playtime with puzzle games or hide-and-seek toys.

Another great activity for mental stimulation is agility training, using obstacles such as tunnels, jumps, and weave poles. This provides a mental challenge and increases the bond between you two while giving them much-needed exercise.

However, never overexert your pup during these exercises since they may have chronic diseases inherited from the labrador parent.

Diet And Nutrition Of These Very Intelligent Dogs

The Shar Pei Lab mix requires a healthy, balanced diet of high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to maintain good health and reduce the risk of obesity and other health issues; read on for more information about their specific dietary needs.

Food Requirements for Lab Shar Pei

Lab Pei dogs require a high-quality diet of protein and nutrients to support their active lifestyle. Feed them food containing meat as the primary ingredient, such as chicken, beef, or fish.

When feeding your Shar Pei Lab mix, monitoring its weight carefully is essential. These dogs are prone to obesity if they overeat or don’t get enough exercise. Feeding them small meals throughout the day instead of one large meal can also help prevent digestive issues.

Special Dietary Considerations For Lab Shar Pei

A balanced diet is essential for the Shar Pei Lab mix, especially as they can be prone to specific health issues. Here are some special dietary considerations to keep in mind:

1. High-quality proteins: Protein is crucial for a healthy coat and skin and helps with muscle development. Look for dog food that has real meat as the first ingredient.
2. Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are recommended to promote joint health and prevent conditions like hip dysplasia. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
3. Limited treats: This crossbreed can quickly put on weight, so monitoring calorie intake is vital. Treats should be given in moderation and ideally replaced with healthier options like carrots or blueberries.
4. Frequent small meals: Rather than free-feeding, which can lead to overeating, provide several small, frequent meals throughout the day.
5. Avoid grains: Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to grains, so consider choosing grain-free dog food options.
6. Avoid common allergens: Certain ingredients, such as chicken or beef, may cause allergies or sensitivities in some dogs, so it’s crucial to pay attention to your dog’s reactions to different foods.

These special dietary considerations can help ensure your Shar Pei Lab mix stays healthy and happy for years!

Finding A Shar Pei Lab Mix Puppies

One can search for reputable breeders or adopt a rescue dog from groups and animal shelters to find a Shar Pei Lab mix puppy. However, do research genetic health tests before committing to any breeder.

Locating Reputable Breeders For Lab Pei

To ensure the health and well-being of your future Lab Pei, buying from a reputable breeder is crucial. Here are some tips on how to find one:

1. Research breeders online and check their reviews and reputation.
2. Look for breeders from recognized organizations such as the American Kennel Club or the United Kennel Club.
3. Visit the breeder’s facility to see how the puppies are raised.
4. Ask for health clearances for both parent breeds and any genetic testing done on the puppies.
5. Request references from previous puppy buyers to hear about their experience with the breeder.
6. Be prepared to wait for a litter if necessary, as reputable breeders often have a waiting list.

Remember, buying from a reputable breeder may cost more initially. Still, it can save money and heartache by ensuring your Lab Pei has good genetics and a healthy upbringing.

Adopting This Sweetest Dog From Rescues Or Shelters

Adopting a lab pei puppy from a rescue or shelter can provide a new furry companion that is loyal, intelligent, and protective. Here are some reasons why adopting from rescues or shelters is beneficial:

• It is a great way to provide a loving home for a needy dog.
• Adopting from rescue organizations or animal shelters may be more cost-effective than buying from a breeder.
• Rescue organizations and shelters often provide education and support for new adopters, including training resources and information on the dog’s health and history.
• Adopting rescue organizations or shelters can help combat overpopulation in animal shelters and reduce the number of dogs euthanized yearly.
• Adopting rescues or shelters allows them to save a dog’s life and gives them a happy home.
• There is often greater variety at rescues or shelters, providing the perfect match for your lifestyle and preferences.
• Adopting a dog from rescues or shelters can be more ethical than buying from commercial breeders as it reduces the demand for puppy mills and backyard breeders.

Adopting your next furry friend from rescue organizations or animal shelters benefits you and animals in need.

Pros And Cons Of A Shar Pei Labrador Mix As A Pet

Reasons To Choose A Labrador Shar Pei Mix

A Shar Pei Lab mix could be an excellent choice if you are considering adding a furry friend to your family. Here are some reasons why:

1. They are affectionate: Lab Peis love spending time with their humans and thrive on affection and attention.
2. They make great watchdogs: With their alert and protective nature, Shar Pei Lab mixes to keep you and your family safe.
3. They are intelligent: As a crossbreed between two highly intelligent breeds, this best dog is a quick learner and can be easily trained.
4. They have a sturdy structure: With the Labrador’s strong legs and the Sharpei’s muscular body, Lab Peis have a sturdy structure that can withstand rough play.
5. They are social: When trained properly from an early age, Lab Peis can get along well with children and other pets in the household.
6. They have an interesting appearance: Overlapping ears, almond-shaped eyes, loose facial skin, and unique coat patterns – what’s not to love about their look?
7. They are medium-sized dogs: If you’re looking for a dog that isn’t too small or too large, the Shar Pei Lab mix is just right with its medium size.
8. They have guard dog instincts: Being part of Sharpei makes them naturally protective, meaning they bark at anything out of place or any strangers.
9. They are trainable: This breed is known to be intelligent yet stubborn, so it may prove challenging to teach them basic commands, but once they ve learned them, obedience becomes easier over time.
10. They live long lives when healthy: Provided they receive good health care like regular vaccinations for parvovirus or distemper. Proper dental care, including teeth cleaning every six months; regular checkups with the vet.

Potential Challenges of Lab Pei rescue dog

While the Lab shar pei mix can make a superb companion, there are a few potential challenges that owners should be aware of before bringing one into their home. These include:

1. Health issues: As with all crossbreeds, the Shar Pei Lab mix may be prone to genetic health issues common in both parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia, skin infections, and eye problems like Entropion.
2. Training difficulties: Like many crossbreeds, the Shar Pei Lab mix can sometimes be challenging due to its independent nature. Obedience training and socialization from an early age can help mitigate this challenge.
3. Exercise requirements: The energy levels of individual Shar Pei Lab mixes can vary greatly depending on the traits of their parents. Owners will need to ensure they get enough daily exercise and mental stimulation.
4. Protective instincts: Both the Shar Pei and Labrador Retriever have a protective nature and watchdog instincts, which may translate to possessiveness over family members or territory without proper training and socialization.
5. Skin allergies: Both breeds have been known to suffer from chronic skin allergies, which could be a potential challenge for some Shar-Pei Lab mixes.

Similar Breeds To Consider

Other Lab mixes include the Labradoodle, Husky Lab mix, and Mastiff Labrador Retriever Mix, while other Shar Pei mix include Lab Pei’s close cousin, the Bullpei (Shar Pei Bulldog Mix).

Other Lab Mixes

Lab Peis are a unique and popular designer mix, but other options exist for those looking for a Lab crossbreed. Some other Lab mixes to consider include:

1. Labradoodle – A cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, this breed is known for its hypoallergenic coat and friendly demeanor.
2. Mastiff Labrador Retriever Mix – This is a large breed dog that results from crossing a Labrador with a Mastiff. They have sturdy structures and make excellent watchdogs.
3. Husky Lab Mix– A cross between a Siberian Husky and a Labrador Retriever, this breed is known for being active and having high energy levels.

Each breed has unique traits and characteristics that may appeal to different individuals or families. Research each breed thoroughly before deciding and selecting the right breeder or rescue group to adopt from.

Regardless of which Lab mix is chosen, proper training, socialization, exercise, and nutrition are crucial for maintaining health and happiness.

Other Shar-Pei Mix

There are several other Shar Pei mix worth considering besides the Lab Pei:

• Sharp Eagle (Shar Pei + Beagle)
• Siberian Husky (Shar Pei + Siberian Husky)
• Share – Poo (Shar Pei + Poodle)
• Shar Pei Pitbull Mix
• Bullpei (Shar Pei + Bulldog)

Each mix may inherit different traits from its parent breeds. Research each breed’s characteristics to determine if they’re a good fit for your lifestyle.

Remember that, like the Lab Pei, some of these mixes may be prone to certain health conditions such as skin allergies, ear infections, and hip dysplasia. Taking precautions and performing necessary health tests before adopting or purchasing any mixed-breed dog is essential.

Essential Products And Accessories For Lab Pei

To ensure your Lab Shar Pei mix is happy and healthy, you’ll need essential products and accessories, like toys, grooming supplies, and training aids.

Toys For This Very Loving Dog

A lab shar pei mix is an active and playful dog that needs plenty of mental stimulation. Toys can provide a great way to give your pup that needed exercise and enrich their lives.

You should choose durable toys that are resistant to chewing since these dogs have strong jaws. Don’t get carried away with buying too many toys at once, though – this intelligent dog will lose interest quickly if they have too much variety in their toy collection.

Consider rotating different toys every few days so each one remains exciting and fresh for the puppy.

Grooming Supplies For Lab Mix Puppies

Shar Pei Labs have a moderate grooming requirement but may be susceptible to skin infections. To keep their coat healthy and clean, regular brushing is essential.

1. A slicker brush or comb can help keep their fur tangle-free. Lab Pei dogs also need regular ear cleaning to avoid ear infections.
2. Using cotton balls or pads dipped in an ear-cleaning solution is an excellent way to remove dirt and debris from the ears gently.
3. When it comes to bath time, frequent bathing can strip their coat of natural oils.
4. Use a mild shampoo specifically for dogs with sensitive skin and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water afterward.

One customer recommended supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids to maintain the health of their Shar Pei Lab mix’s coat alongside finding grain-free kibble with high dog food advisor ratings.

Training Aids For these Mixed Breed Dogs

Training aids can help with the socialization and obedience training of a Shar Pei Lab Mix. A clicker is a small handheld device that makes a clicking sound when pressed, serving as an auditory reward during training.

Treats are also essential tools to incentivize good behavior and positive reinforcement. Another helpful tool in the training process is a leash or harness, especially for puppies who may tend to wander or pull on their walks. Choosing the right size and fit is essential for maximum comfort and safety.

Dog owners must train their Lab Pei dog breeds consistently from an early age, ideally starting from 8-10 weeks old, with short sessions throughout the day rather than long ones.

Repetition and consistency are key here, so use familiar cues, such as verbal commands and gestures, where appropriate.

FAQ

Is a Shar-Pei lab mix a good dog?

Yes, a Shar-Pei Lab mix, or a Lab Pei, can make a wonderful companion for the right home. They embody the best qualities of their parent breeds—the Shar-Pei’s loyalty and the Labrador’s friendliness.

What is the lifespan of a Labrador Shar-Pei mix?

The lifespan of a Labrador Shar-Pei mix generally ranges between 8 to 12 years.

What is the temperament of a Shar-Pei mix?

The temperament of a Shar-Pei mix, including the Lab Pei, is often described as loyal, affectionate, and somewhat independent. They are known for their protective instincts, making them great watchdogs. However, they can be wary of strangers and a bit aloof, a trait they inherit from the Shar-Pei.