Chow Chow vs Chinese Shar-Pei NZ: Two Ancient Chinese Breeds Compared

Chow Chows and Chinese Shar-Peis are both ancient Chinese breeds with independent temperaments and distinctive appearances. Both appeal to owners who want a dog that's different from the mainstream retriever or shepherd — a serious, somewhat cat-like dog with dignity and loyalty. They are genuinely different dogs, and understanding those differences before committing to either is important.

At a glance

Background: two ancient Chinese working breeds

Chow Chow: One of the oldest recognised dog breeds — Chinese records suggest the breed has existed for over 2,000 years. Historically used for hunting, herding, guarding, and pulling sleds in northern China. The Chow's lion-like appearance (particularly the rough-coated variety), blue-black tongue, and dignified bearing are immediately distinctive.

Chinese Shar-Pei: Also ancient — documented in Chinese art dating to around 200 BC. The Shar-Pei was a multipurpose working dog: hunting, herding, and guarding. The extreme wrinkling of modern Shar-Pei show dogs is more pronounced than in traditional Chinese farm dogs of the same breed. By the late 20th century the breed had nearly disappeared; dedicated breeders in Hong Kong and the US restored it.

Key physical differences

Chow Chow: Exists in two coat varieties — Rough (long, thick outer coat with a woolly undercoat, the lion-like appearance) and Smooth (denser, shorter, plush coat). Both varieties shed significantly. The Chow's blue-black tongue is unique and consistent — it's a breed identification trait.

Chinese Shar-Pei: The deep wrinkles are the defining feature — most pronounced as puppies, and usually somewhat reduced in adults (though this varies by breeding line). The coat is short and bristly — the name "Shar-Pei" translates roughly to "sand skin," reflecting the rough texture. The Shar-Pei's wrinkles require regular cleaning to prevent skin fold infections.

Health differences: Shar-Pei has more breed-specific concerns

Both breeds score 2/5 on health concerns (fewer concerns, relatively robust). However, the Shar-Pei's physical characteristics — specifically the wrinkles, and the small, sunken eyes in some lines — create specific care needs:

Shar-Pei skin fold care: The folds between the wrinkles must be cleaned regularly (weekly) with a gentle cloth to prevent moisture and bacteria building up. Neglected folds develop skin fold dermatitis — redness, odour, and discomfort. This is a management issue, not a disease, but it requires ongoing attention.

Entropion (eyelid rolling inward): Common in Shar-Peis and Chow Chows, but more prevalent in Shar-Peis. The eyelid rolls inward, causing the lashes to rub against the eye. This requires veterinary correction in moderate to severe cases. When choosing a Shar-Pei, look for breeders who screen for this and select against it.

Shar-Pei Fever / Familial Shar-Pei Fever: A hereditary inflammatory condition found in Shar-Peis, causing periodic fever episodes and, in severe cases, contributing to amyloidosis (protein deposits in organs). Responsible breeders test or select against dogs with a history of this condition. Discuss this with any NZ Shar-Pei breeder.

🚩 *The above are breed-awareness notes for owner preparedness, not a diagnostic guide. Consult a registered NZ veterinarian about any health concerns.*

Temperament: similar but nuanced

Both breeds are loyal, calm, and somewhat independent. The scores are identical across the board — but experienced owners note differences in how these qualities manifest:

Chow Chow: Notoriously cat-like in independence — they are loyal to their family but seldom display the eager-to-please nature of a retriever or herding dog. They are aloof with strangers to a degree that can read as unfriendly to people unfamiliar with the breed. They can be dominant with other dogs and require early socialisation. First-time dog owners sometimes find Chow temperament frustrating without proper preparation.

Shar-Pei: Similarly independent and calm, but often described as slightly more adaptable and responsive than the Chow. They bond closely with their immediate family and can be territorial — making early socialisation and consistent training important. They are reserved but not typically difficult with respectful strangers.

Heat management in NZ

Chow Chow (rough coat): The thick double coat makes Chow Chows poorly tolerant of heat. Auckland's summers require careful management: no midday exercise, access to shade and cool water, and cool indoor environments. The flat face (while less extreme than a Bulldog) also limits heat dispersal somewhat.

Shar-Pei: Also moderate heat sensitivity due to skin fold insulation. Similar management needed in NZ summer: no vigorous exercise in midday heat, shade, fresh water, and indoor access during Auckland/Northland summers.

Both breeds are better suited to South Island climates for most of the year.

NZ legalities

Neither breed has specific legal restrictions in New Zealand. Both require council registration and microchipping under the Dog Control Act 1996.

Which is right for you?

Choose a Chow Chow if:

• The lion-like appearance, particularly the rough coat, is specifically what attracts you
• You appreciate a deeply dignified, independent personality and understand it
• You're prepared to manage the rough-coated variety's significant grooming needs

Choose a Chinese Shar-Pei if:

• The wrinkled, unique appearance of the Shar-Pei appeals to you
• You're prepared for regular skin fold cleaning as part of the routine
• You want to research the breed's specific health considerations (Shar-Pei Fever, entropion) and source from a breeder who tests for these

Neither is ideal if:

• You're a first-time dog owner who hasn't researched independent, dominant-tendency breeds
• You live in a very warm NZ climate without air conditioning
• You want a reliably friendly dog with strangers (both breeds are reserved with people outside the family)

Related guides

• Shiba Inu vs Akita NZ
• Best guard and watch dogs NZ
• Best family dog breeds NZ
• How often to bathe a dog NZ
• Find a breed tool

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References

• Dogs New Zealand (NZKC), registered breeder listings: https://www.dogsnz.org.nz/
• SPCA New Zealand, responsible dog ownership: https://www.spca.nz/advice-and-welfare/
• Dog Control Act 1996: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1996/0019/latest/whole.html

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*Profile scores sourced from PetMall breed profiles. Shar-Pei Fever and entropion are breed-awareness notes — confirm health screening practices with any NZ breeder. Not a substitute for veterinary advice.*