Shar-Pei vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Shar-Pei and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Shar-Pei
Distinctive for its deep wrinkles and calm loyalty, this breed forms strong bonds with family. Naturally protective and independent, Shar-Pei make devoted companions in any home.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Medium
20–27 kg
Short, bristly
8–12 years
18–25 kg
Low activity needs
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Shar-Pei
Reserved with strangers, loyal to family
Learns quickly, independent thinker
Generally calm, not highly active
Prefers calm, not very playful
Adjusts well to various living situations
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Shar-Pei
Skin infections, entropion
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Shar-Pei
Challenging for beginners
Can be stubborn and needs experienced handling and consistent training
Good fit
Calm and relatively inactive indoors, adapts well to apartment settings
Not very suitable
Prefers moderate exercise and isn't as energetic as highly active households require
Use caution
May be aloof and less tolerant of unpredictable young children
Potential issues
May be territorial and not always friendly with other pets
Not recommended
Dislikes being left alone and can develop separation anxiety or destructive habits
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Shar-Pei
- Loyal to family members
- Naturally clean and low odor
- Protective instinct toward home
- Moderate exercise requirements
- Generally quiet and calm indoors
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Shar-Pei
- Prone to skin infections and allergies
- Can be aloof with strangers
- Stubborn and independent during training
- Needs early socialization for stability
- Sensitive to heat and humidity
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience