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Shar Pei Great Dane Mix: Care, Pictures, Info, & More

Written by: Hanh Duong

Last Updated on April 18, 2024 by Dogster Team

Parent breeds of the Shar Pei Great Dane Mix

Shar Pei Great Dane Mix: Care, Pictures, Info, & More

Have you ever heard of the Shar Pei Great Dane mix? This breed is the result of crossing a Great Dane and a Shar Pei. Great Danes are known for their friendly and gentle nature despite being quite large. On the other hand, Shar Peis tend to be more aggressive. That’s why this breed might be better suited for experienced dog owners who can handle their temperament. Let’s learn more about these unique canines to see if they’re a good fit for you.

Breed Overview

Height:

20 – 34 inches

Weight:

80 – 170 pounds

Lifespan:

8 – 10 years

Colors:

Cream, red, brindle, black, white, fawn, blue, harlequin, mantle, merle

Suitable for:

Families with plenty of room and time for a dog of considerable stature, experienced owners, those looking for a skilled protection dog

Temperament:

Intelligent, guardian, playful, stubborn, devoted, courageous, spirited, noble

Great Danes are known for their loving nature, while Shar-Peis are famous for being fiercely loyal. When you put them together, you get a dog that’s not only affectionate and caring but also fiercely protective of their family. Shar Pei Great Dane mixes are incredibly fun and goofy. They love to play and will put a smile on your face with their silly antics.

Additionally, if you’re a cuddler, you’re in for a treat! These hybrid dogs love nothing more than snuggling up with their humans. With their sweet Scooby-Doo-like faces and squishy Shar-Pei wrinkles, you won’t be able to resist their charm. So, if you’re looking for a loyal, loving, and fun companion, a Shar Pei Great Dane mix might be the perfect addition to your family!

Shar Pei Great Dane Mix Characteristics

Energy
+
High-energy dogs will need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy, while low-energy dogs require minimal physical activity. It’s important when choosing a dog to make sure their energy levels match your lifestyle or vice versa.
Trainability
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Easy-to-train dogs are more skilled at learning prompts and actions quickly with minimal training. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
+
Some breeds, due to their size or their breeds potential genetic health issues, have shorter lifespans than others. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet.
Lifespan
+
Some dog breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every dog will have these issues, but they have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Sociability
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Some dog breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other dogs. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed, it’s important to socialize your dog and expose them to lots of different situations.

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Shar Pei Great Dane Mix Puppies

If you are interested in a Shar Pei Great Dane mix, let me tell you that it’s not an easy breed to find. However, if you are getting a puppy from a breeder, make sure to see the mother with the puppies and ask for information about the father and any breed-associated health tests that both parents have had.

Before you make any decisions, you must consider initial and recurring costs, home environment, temperament, size, and physical characteristics of the dog. Think about their exercising, training, and grooming needs. And most importantly, think about your lifestyle. The right dog for you will be the one that fits your family’s needs and your lifestyle.

Parent breeds of the Shar Pei Great Dane Mix
Image Credit: Left – Marcelino Pozo Ruiz, Shutterstock | Right – Nikolas Otto, Shutterstock

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Temperament & Intelligence of the Shar Pei Great Dane Mix

Just like with any hybrid, it’s important to know their parents to get a good idea of how they’ll behave. The possibilities are endless, but one thing’s sure: they’ll get along great with other animals if they’re appropriately socialized. Positive reinforcement is critical with these furry friends; they’ll show you lots of love in return. Just remember not to leave them alone for too long; they’re pretty independent but still crave the company of their pack, and that’s you!

Are These Dogs Good for Families?🏡

If you are an experienced owner with plenty of space and time to devote to a dog of massive stature, then the Shar Pei Great Dane mix could be an ideal match for you. They are talented guard dogs and can fit in very well with a family. However, note that they tend to bond strongly with their family, so adopting one as a puppy is recommended if you want them to get along well with kids and other pets. If you are considering getting an adult Shar Pei Great Dane mix, you will have to ensure that they are gentle with people and other animals first.

Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?🐶 😽

You’ll be happy to know that these canines can be wonderful companions for other pets and small animals with proper training and socialization. They are known to be gentle, loving, and protective of their friends. However, if you plan on adopting an adult dog that has yet to be socialized with smaller animals, it may be quite challenging to train them to be comfortable around other pets.

Things to Know When Owning a Shar Pei Great Dane Mix

Food & Diet Requirements🦴

Shar Pei Great Dane mixes require a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. So, picking the right dog food that caters to your pet’s dietary requirements is vital. After all, what they eat plays a vital role in their health and wellbeing.

Puppies have different dietary needs than seniors, and pets with health issues may require a special diet. In addition, while table scraps may seem like a good idea to treat your furry buddy, it’s not recommended, as many human foods like salt, garlic, and onions can harm them.

Moreover, you need to track how much food you feed your pet. Overfeeding or giving too many treats can lead to obesity, which could trigger health problems like heart disease, renal problems, and more. So, always weigh your options regarding pet food and make an informed decision. If you’re unsure what’s best for them, don’t hesitate to consult your vet. After all, a healthy pet is a happy pet!

Exercise🐕

Giving your dog proper care is essential for their well-being, and that includes exercising them regularly. Not only does exercise help your pet maintain physical fitness, but it also boosts their mental health. You probably know how much dogs love to play. Sometimes, what we think of as bad behavior in our pets is simply them feeling bored and looking for something to do, like rummaging through the trash or chewing on the couch.

Your dog’s exercise needs will depend on several factors, such as age, overall health, and energy levels. Younger pups will require more exercise than older ones. If possible, try taking them to a place where they can run freely without a leash and stretch their legs. If you have a puppy, it’s best to avoid repetitive high-impact exercises like running or jumping from high places, as it could damage their developing bones and joints. Always consult your vet for personalized exercise recommendations.

Training🦮

Training your dog is an amazing way to strengthen your bond and build a positive relationship. Whether your Shar Pei Great Dane mix is a young pup or a senior, mastering some basic commands can make a huge difference in your life together.

These canines are known for their intelligence but can also be a bit stubborn and demanding at times. They need an owner who is strong, firm, and consistent to train them properly. The key to success is positive reinforcement. So, remember to praise them when they do well! They love to please their owners and enjoy a good challenge, both mentally and physically. If you want to make their training easier, make sure they get plenty of exercise earlier.

Socialization is also crucial for all dogs, including this breed. You can take them to the park or doggy daycare to interact with other dogs and people. The more they’re exposed to different experiences, the happier and friendlier they’ll be.

Grooming ✂️

The Great Dane and Shar-Pei mix is a beautiful hybrid dog that’s likely to have a short, dense coat and be a moderate shedder. But with the Shar Pei’s adorable wrinkles, grooming could be a bit of a challenge. You’ll need to brush them a few times a week and invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean. And while baths are important, don’t overdo it and dry out their sensitive skin.

Speaking of sensitive skin, both Great Danes and Shar Peis are prone to skin sensitivity issues, so it’s best to stick to gentle or fragrance-free grooming products.

Health and Conditions❤️

This mix is fairly healthy but can be prone to similar health issues as other large-breed dogs.

Minor Conditions
  • Skin allergies
  • Demodectic mange
  • Chronic ear infections
Serious Conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Entropion
  • Patellar luxation
  • Kidney problems

Male vs Female

Are you looking for a furry companion but feeling confused about whether to choose a male or a female pup? Well, there are a couple of things that you should consider before making a decision. Firstly, males are generally bigger than their female counterparts. Although the difference in size is not significant, it’s worth noting that, on average, male puppies in a purebred litter tend to grow a little taller and heavier than the females. However, the size difference may vary from breed to breed and can be less pronounced in a male dog that has been neutered early.

When choosing between a male and female dog, consider the above factors to make an informed decision. Remember, each dog is unique and irrespective of their gender, they can be great companions if trained and cared for well.

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3 Little-Known Facts About the Shar Pei Great Dane Mix

1. Life Magazine Prevented the Shar Pei from Probably Extinction

The Shar Pei breed was not well-known outside Hong Kong in the 20th century. People were afraid that if Hong Kong returned to China, the species would be restricted and may become extinct. But a breeder named Matgo Law took action and reached out for help. Life magazine stepped in and featured a Shar Pei on their cover in 1979. This introduced millions of people to the breed. Demand for Shar Pei pups increased, and their existence was no longer limited to just one location. It’s an interesting story showing how a little exposure can make a big difference in saving a breed from extinction.


2. The Great Dane Is Not from Denmark

Great Danes are an ancient breed that once used to hunt boars. They were called Boar Hounds and then English Dogges. In the 1500s, they became popular pets in Germany and were called Chamber Dogs. The breed became wildly popular and was refined into gentle giants. They were later called Great Danes despite having no ties to Denmark.


3. They Are the Tallest Dogs in the World

Did you know that a male Great Dane can grow up to a whopping 32 inches tall and weigh 175 pounds? Females are slightly smaller, reaching up to 30 inches and weighing 140 pounds. When they stand on their hind legs, they can tower over many humans. But don’t let their size fool you. Great Danes are graceful and even have a regal quality to their walk and demeanor. They’re truly majestic creatures!

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Final Thoughts

A Shar Pei Great Dane mix is an excellent choice for those who want a happy, healthy, and well-balanced dog. But before you adopt a puppy, here are some things to know. First, look for a calm, friendly puppy that gets along well with their littermates. This will help further ensure that your dog has a good temperament.

You should get your Shar Pei Great Dane mix from a reputable breeder with at least one or both parent dogs on-site. Take the time to meet both parents of the puppy and talk in detail with the breeder. This way, you will be better prepared to raise your pet and understand their potential behavioral traits.


Featured Image Credit: Left – Liliya Kulianionak, Shutterstock | Right – Tara Lynn and Co, Shutterstock

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