Shar Pei, sometimes referred to by their full name ‘Chinese Shar Pei’, are one of the most recognizable breeds. Plentiful folds make this dog entirely cute. But how big does the average Shar Pei get, and what does this all mean from an ownership perspective. Here is what you will want to know.

So, how big do Shar Pei get? Shar Pei typically reach between 17-20 inches (43-50 cm) in height and weigh between 40-65 pounds (18-30 kg), on average. They generally reach their full adult size by 16 months of age. Males of the breed are typically heavier than their female counterparts.

This is not the largest breed of dog by a long stretch.

But that does not mean that they’re not strong or powerful – quite the opposite.

And being quite strong-willed in personality and stubborn by nature, these dogs need early training and socialization.

Otherwise, their independent personalities and desires can easily overcome an unprepared owner.

And it can easily catch an owner off-guard.

They are generally not too much to handle, being calm and devoted most of the time.

Nevertheless, let us now take a closer look at the Shar Pei and how they typically grow – from puppy to adult dog.

How Big Is A Full Grown Shar Pei?

At 17-20 inches in height and 40-65 pounds in weight, Shar pei are medium-sized dogs. They compare similarly in height to Australian Cattle Dogs and German Pinschers and in weight to bulldogs.

Although, there is some variance between the sexes of the breed. Generally, males are larger than females in regard to weight.

They generally stand at the same height, though:

A male adult Shar Pei will typically stand between 17-20 inches (43-50 cm) in height, weighing between 55-65 pounds. (25-29 kg).
A female adult Shar Pei will typically stand between 17-20 inches (43-50 cm) in height, weighing between 39-55 pounds. (18-25kg).

Either way, they do both share the same build and frame.

They are relatively compact yet solid dog.

They are somewhat square in appearance, with a broad and deep chest, and a head that is a little large for the rest of their body.

Of course, everyone knows the Shar Pei for their wrinkles. And they have these for life.

Shar pei are actually born with them, and even as they fill out never entirely grow into their skin, keeping these lovable folds around the head, shoulders, and neck.

But then there is also the high-set tail. This is another signature feature of the breed.

And then there is the coat; fawn and very bristle.

All of which really give this dog a unique appearance.

In fact, it is the coat that gave this breed its name.

When Is A Shar Pei Fully Grown?

The average Shar Pei will reach their full adult and final size by 16 months of age. Although for smaller dogs of the breed, it may be a little faster or longer for those on the larger side.

Here is the typical growth trajectory of both the male and female sexes of the breed:

Growth Of A Male Shar Pei

The weight of a male Shar Pei at 3 months should be between 21 and 25 pounds.
At 6 months, they will likely weigh between 40 and 47 lbs (pounds).
At 1 year, a male Shar Pei should weigh between 53 and 62 lbs (pounds).

Age	Weight – Low Average (lbs)	Weight – High Average (lbs)
3 Months	21	25
4 Months	27	33
5 Months	33	40
6 Months	40	47
7 Months	42	51
8 Months	45	54
9 Months	47	57
10 Months	59	59
11 Months	51	61
12 Months	53	62
13 Months	54	63
14 Months	54	64
15 Months	55	65
16 Months	55	65

Growth Of A Female Shar Pei

The weight of a female Shar Pei at 3 months should be between 16 and 21 lbs (pounds).
At 6 months, they will likely weigh between 30 and 40 lbs (pounds).
At 1 year, a female Shar Pei should weigh between 39 and 52 lbs (pounds).

Age	Weight – Low Average (lbs)	Weight – High Average (lbs)
3 Months	16	21
4 Months	21	27
5 Months	25	34
6 Months	30	40
7 Months	32	43
8 Months	34	45
9 Months	36	47
10 Months	37	49
11 Months	39	51
12 Months	39	52
13 Months	40	53
14 Months	40	54
15 Months	40	55
16 Months	40	56

As the data in the table shows, the Shar Pei has a relatively gradual and consistent growth.

They do not tend to experience any sudden growth spurts but around 12-14 months their rate of growth does slow down somewhat.

Around the 12-14 month mark, a Shar Pei is basically at their full-grown size, but may still continue to fill out a little.

Spatial Requirements For Shar Pei Dogs

Shar Pei dogs do not require much space, and they are suitable dogs for those who live in an apartment or a larger home.

They can equally live in more rural locations or the hustle and bustle of the city.

While they can live in a home with limited space, they still require a decent amount of daily exercise to remain healthy and happy. But more on their specific needs later.

Having a backyard is not a necessity for this breed, but it is preferred.

Otherwise, it would be best if you looked to take them to a park or outside space reasonably regularly. This way, they can stretch their legs and remain mentally stimulated.

And here is why.

This is actually quite a laid-back and low-energy breed.

They much prefer being with their owner than being active.

In fact, this is when they tend to do best.

The Shar Pei was actually initially bred to guard livestock, so they are a protective dog by nature.

This means they are relatively wary of strangers and other dogs (unless heavily socialized early in life).

Generally, they are not the most social of breeds and do best in more isolated situations.

This is why you will always need to keep them on a leash around other dogs and never be left alone with them, at least initially.

Thankfully Shar Peis are very intelligent, loyal, and keen to please their owners, so they are quite the trainable breed.

You do need to be consistent, however, as they are strong-wille