Shar-Pei vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Shar-Pei and Poodle 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.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Medium
20–27 kg
Short, bristly
8–12 years
18–25 kg
Low activity needs
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 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
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Shar-Pei
Skin infections, entropion
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
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
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
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
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
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
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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