If you’re a breed enthusiast, you might be wondering, “How much does a Shar-Pei cost?” The purchasing price for this loyal dog breed is affected by age, appearance, and bloodline, among several other factors.
Getting a dog is one thing. However, there are a lot of other expenses that come with it, like food, grooming, and veterinary costs for check-ups and illnesses, among other things. The same goes for owning a Shar-Pei dog.
This guide is here to help you so that you can figure out how much you will spend taking care of your Shar-Pei.
Here, you’ll discover all the essential things you need to know about their puppy prices, expenses, and more.
The Average Cost of a Shar-Pei Puppy
A Chinese Shar-Pei puppy can range from $1,200 to $2,000. If you want show-quality Shar-Pei puppies, the price is expected to be much higher. Meanwhile, the adoption cost of a Shar-Pei puppy is usually between $100 and $500.
The purchasing price of Shar-Pei puppies isn’t very high compared to other popular breeds. However, it can still be too expensive for those on a tight budget.
If you don’t want to be burdened by the cost of Shar-Peis from reputable breeders, you can always adopt one. You can save a loving pup and also cut costs. It’s a win-win situation!
Watch this detailed video about Shar-Pei prices and expenses:
COST OF OWNING SHAR PEI<a href="https://youtu.be/HkraSJ2ou-c" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FHkraSJ2ou-c%2F0.jpg" alt="COST OF OWNING SHAR PEI" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Shar-Pei Puppy
Prices vary according to characteristics, including rarity, temperament, common medical conditions, and also if you intend to show your dog in competitions.
Before buying Shar-Peis, you need to know about these factors. Doing so will assist you in finding out if the Shar-Pei price you are getting is justified. Knowing these factors will also help you choose the right pup.
Pet owners who are interested in buying Shar-Peis should consider these factors:
Age: Young Shar-Peis typically cost more than older Shar-Peis due to demand. You could get an older puppy from a local breeder to save on costs. Compare prices from different breeders to get the best deal.
Appearance: A breed’s appearance affects its price. Shar-Peis are medium-sized dogs with different standard colors. The Shar-Pei appearance is unique because of its short, harsh coat, loose sand skin on its head and body, small ears, and high set tail. Prices for rarer coats, like the bear coat Shar-Pei, tend to be more expensive.
Bloodline: The bloodline of Shar-Peis significantly affects how much they cost. Shar-Peis from champion bloodlines can sell for up to $3,000 because they excel in dog shows and events. Getting regular Shar-Peis is better if you only plan on having a companion.
Breeder’s Reputation: If bred by a trusted breeder, a Shar-Pei puppy will cost more. Reputable breeders typically demand a higher price than backyard breeders and puppy mills. This results from their commitment to breeding high-quality puppies.
Health Guarantees: Breeders that give health guarantees for the puppies they sell often price them higher than those who don’t. Health screenings, such as eye tacking, are done by reputable breeders to make sure their Shar-Pei puppies prevent eye conditions like entropion. It is recommended to get Shar-Peis with health guarantees for genetic health conditions.
Registration Papers: Additional payment is required by a reputable breeder that registers their puppies for sale to reputable dog organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC). The AKC and other major kennel clubs recognize the Shar-Pei breed and allow them to join major dog events.
Training and Socialization: A Shar-Pei breeder will charge more depending on the training they give their Shar-Pei puppies. Early socialization usually starts when they are seven weeks old. Requesting specialized training usually incurs more fees for the owner.
Aside from these factors, the Shar-Pei’s gender, your location, and required shipping fees can increase the Shar-Pei price. Some breeders may also charge extra for puppy accessories, reservation fees, or vaccinations.
You need to ask breeders some important questions to find out more about these considerations so you can figure out if their Shar-Pei price is reasonable.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shar-Pei From a Rescue?
It costs between $100 and $500 to adopt a Chinese Shar-Pei breed. Getting one through animal shelters or rescue groups is cheaper, but it is an equally fulfilling option.
In addition to saving you money, you’ll be saving the life of a pup as well. Rescued dogs in shelters and adoption centers are cared for until they find a new home.
Adoption fees are usually fixed, but they may vary depending on the dog’s age. The average price of puppies for sale is generally higher, so if you want to get a cheaper price, choose adult or senior dogs.
There are also costs for deworming and having your pet spayed or neutered that rescues and shelters also spend on. Therefore, it’s more cost-effective to get a Shar-Pei from one of these facilities and have savings for other needs.
To ensure the safety and well-being of their dogs, adoption centers may conduct background checks and home visits.
Initial Cost of Shar-Pei Ownership
After learning the Shar-Pei’s price, you need to calculate the direct costs of taking this pup home. After all, dog ownership is a big financial responsibility.
They will be reliant on you for food and shelter to survive, but they are entitled to much more. Before getting one, make sure you know what items they need to feel safe and comfortable.
Toys, food, veterinary visits, and vaccinations are just a few examples of what you need to provide for your pup.
In this section, I’ve compiled a list of all the essentials you’ll need as a Shar-Pei owner:
Food and Treats: Feeding your Shar-Pei high-quality food that is appropriate for its age will ensure that it gets all the nutrients it needs. Also, treats can be an excellent way to help you train your dog for basic obedience. For about $80 to $100, you can buy a bag of high-quality dog food and treats.
Food and Water Bowls: It’s essential for other dogs to have their own food and water bowl. Plastic bowls may be less expensive, but they are not recommended for many dogs. They are more likely to be damaged by your dog’s teeth or claws, allowing bacteria to flourish. Stainless steel bowls are a better alternative. These are more durable, which means they last longer. These bowls can cost anywhere from $10 to $30.
Bed: The Shar-Pei breed isn’t a fan of high temperatures. Giving your pup a soft, cooling bed can keep your dog’s body from overheating. Aside from keeping your dog comfortable, cooling beds or mats prevent the development of hip dysplasia. The average price of a high-quality dog bed ranges from $40 to $180.
Crate: Crates for pups are neither cruel nor promote dog aggression. It is essential to provide a pup crate to ensure the safety and comfort of your Shar-Pei at home or during transport. Dog owners know that when their puppy is tired or stressed, they’ll look for a place where they can relax. A sturdy dog crate can range from $50 to $370.
Leash and Collar: Training Shar-Peis should start when they are about 3 to 6 months old. Leash training should be included in these sessions. A good-quality leash and collar for your Shar-Pei will help them stay safe during walks. It’s essential to get one that can be adjusted and washed. They cost about $15 to $50 as a set.
Toys: High-quality chew toys are an excellent investment for your pup to exercise their powerful jaws and keep them mentally stimulated. It is recommended to consider this as part of your first-year expenses. Local pet stores sell a variety of chew toys for between $30 and $40.
Grooming Essentials: The Shar-Pei appearance requires very little maintenance in terms of grooming. Once a month or so, they need to be bathed. Weekly trimming of nails and cleaning of the ears is also recommended. For $40 to $160, you can buy a set of hairbrushes, shampoo, a tooth brushing kit, and a nail trimmer.
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: Every Shar-Pei puppy needs to be dewormed and treated for ticks during its first few weeks. Deworming and parasite treatment is common practice among pet breeders and rescues. You can expect to pay an additional $50 to $200 if the breeder does not cover these costs.
Initial Vet Visits: Your Shar-Pei puppy should still visit a licensed veterinarian after being taken home. This is to ensure that they are growing accordingly and not vulnerable to certain diseases. You can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for your Shar-Pei’s initial veterinary visits.
Initial Vaccine Shots: Shar-Peis need to get puppy shots during their first year of life. Many puppy breeders and shelters have their dogs vaccinated. However, most of them only cover the first set of vaccine shots. They will still need vaccinations against distemper, hepatitis (HBV), and other diseases. Typically, this will cost between $75 and $200.
Neutering or Spaying: Because most Shar-Pei puppies for sale are not spayed or neutered, you will be responsible for paying for this procedure. It’s possible, though, that if you buy or adopt an adult dog, it has been spayed or neutered. It usually costs between $50 and $500 to neuter or spay a pup.
Dog License: If your Shar-Pei ever gets lost, you’ll need a dog license to ensure that it can be tracked down easily. Owners are given an identifying number and a tag with the name and phone number of the licensing organization on it. Registration costs between $10 and $20.
Microchip: A microchip is a small electronic device implanted in pups for identification. Computer scanners can read this device and use the information to identify the dog. You’ll be glad you did this if your dog gets separated from you. Microchipping a Shar-Pei ranges anywhere from $40 to $60.
Miscellaneous Supplies: When cleaning up after your pup, you don’t want to make a mess. Many pet owners carry a urine cleaner, poop scooper, poop bag, and other cleaning tools when they do dog walking with their pup. Combined with other essential dog supplies, these are priced between $15 and $30.
List of things you’ll need to pay for a Shar-Pei when you get one:
As you can see in the table above, you need somewhere between $605 and $2,240 for your dog’s necessities, excluding the cost of the puppy itself.
Finding the best deals from different Shar-Pei breeders can help reduce the cost of this relatively large expense. In addition, breeders frequently throw in freebies with their pups.
Moreover, it’s important to note that the prices listed above are only estimates. Prices for medium dog breeds typically fall within this range. The amount you actually spend may differ from these values.
Annual Cost of Owning a Shar-Pei
The subsequent years of your pet ownership will incur a lot of expenses. You should also consider that you’ll be continuously paying for this for the next 8 to 12 years.
The recurring costs that come with taking care of this dog include food, a few trips to the groomers, vet visits, and more.
The following is a breakdown of the annual expenses associated with owning a Shar-Pei:
It’s easy to assume that owning a Shar-Pei will be expensive in the long run. However, the expenses are actually comparable to other medium-sized dogs.
From the table above, you can see that pet insurance accounts for a significant portion of your regular expenses.
Pet insurance is a wise investment, despite the high cost. The cost can range from $500 to $900 a year.
Many health issues common to Shar-Peis, including cutaneous mucinosis, ectropion, and ear infections, must be monitored through routine veterinary care. Veterinarian visits can cost anywhere from $200 to $400 per year.
Similarly, the prices for toys, beds, crates, leashes, and collars are only estimates. The more durable these items are, the less you have to purchase new equipment in the future.
Other Potential Expenses
Depending on how you want to care for your Shar-Pei, you may have to pay for other services. Pet daycare services, kennel club registration, grooming services, and emergency treatment may be included in these additional expenses.
The following is a list of additional costs associated with owning an Australian Shepherd:
Pet Daycare: Leaving Shar-Peis at pet daycare facilities is an option if you are frequently unavailable to care for your puppy. Nowadays, these services are easily accessible. Pet daycare costs between $35 and $50 per day on average.
Pet Sitter Fee: Pet sitters are alternative options to traditional pet daycare facilities. You can ask these people to watch your dog while you’re away. Some can even be dog walkers. Most of the time, they are less expensive than pet daycare services. The average cost of a pet sitter should be between $25 and $30.
Pet Trainer: A Shar-Pei needs early training. But it might not be easy to raise and train this pup because of its strong sense of self-reliance. With your dog’s strong personality, you may need to hire a pet trainer. Pet trainers should cost between $30 and $80.
Grooming Services: This breed requires minimal grooming. But a Shar-Pei is susceptible to skin fold infections. Bringing them to a groomer once in a while would be suitable to manage your dog’s loose skin folds. Grooming a Shar-Pei can cost anywhere from $50 to $90.
Kennel Club Registration: It costs $40 to $80 to register your pup to major kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club (AKC). Proof of registration is required to sign up your pet in AKC-hosted shows and competitions.
Emergency Medical Costs: Shar-Peis can get familial Shar-Pei fever (FSF). Shar-Peis can be paralyzed if their joints aren’t in good shape. This condition, as well as other severe diseases and even accidents, will require immediate medical care. When a pet needs emergency treatment, owners usually need to spend around $1,000 to $5,000. Always consider these possible medical expenses.
Preparation for unforeseen medical procedures is a must. But aside from emergency medical care, everything else on this list is entirely optional. Getting insurance is a great option to prepare for unexpected puppy costs.
Places to Find Shar-Pei Puppies for Sale and Adoption
It’s essential to think about where you’ll find Shar-Pei puppies for sale before deciding and making your purchase.
Buying cheap Shar-Peis from unlicensed backyard breeders or puppy mills is unwise. These puppies frequently have health issues. To put it another way, this could cost you more than you think.
It’s best to ask your veterinarian for advice, talk to dog clubs in your area, or find a reputable Shar-Pei breeder. You could also get your puppy from a rescue center.
But to give you a head start, I’ve found some of the most reputable Shar-Pei breeders to help you out. Rescues dedicated to this breed are also included in our list.
Below you’ll find reputable breeders that have Shar-Pei puppies for sale:
Brekkukots Shar-Pei – One of the most responsible breeders is Brekkukots Shar-Pei, based in Santa Clarita, California. Their dogs are born and raised in their own home. This breeder has an AKC Breeder of Merit and is an active member of the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America (CSPCA).
B&G Shar-Pei – Another AKC Breeder of Merit and member of the (CSPCA) is the B&G Shar-Pei. They’ve been training and breeding dogs for more than 15 years. They are located in West Deptford, New Jersey.
Harvs Shar-Pei – For the past 20 years, Harvs Shar-Pei has only been breeding high-quality Shar-Peis in Forney, Texas. This is why they may not have puppies as often as other breeders. They make sure that their litter is in the healthiest condition.
Meanwhile, you can find several Shar-Pei rescues in the list below:
Mid-Atlantic Chinese Shar-Pei Rescue – MACSPRO is a non-profit group that helps purebred Shar-Pei find new homes. This includes abandoned and abused Shar-Peis. Fundraising activities provide them with the funds they need to preserve the Shar-Pei breed.
Florida Chinese Shar-Pei Rescue – Florida Chinese Shar-Pei Rescue aims to help rescue Shar-Peis from local shelters and humane societies. Their Shar-Peis are microchipped, spayed/neutered, and up to date with their shots. At the time of adoption, they will request a donation which will be used to cover the expenses of taking care of other dogs.
Shar-Pei Rescue of VA, Inc. – The goal of Shar-Pei Rescue of Virginia is to help dogs that have been mistreated or neglected. They are a group of volunteers who work tirelessly to find loving, permanent homes for Shar-Peis.
You might also find Shar-Pei mixes like the mini Hippo Dog and the Chow Pei from these rescue groups. Check out our ultimate dog adoption guide to help you with your adoption application.
You can also join Facebook groups to meet other Shar-Pei pet owners. There are bound to be many enthusiasts and breeders out there who are also willing to help you find the perfect dog.
Money-Saving Tips for Shar-Pei Owners
The cost of a Shar-Pei can be a bit expensive. Your dog’s health should always come first. This is why it is recommended that you follow through with the needed expenses. But there’s always something you can do to save money.
Here are some money-saving tips for a future Shar-Pei owner:
Invest in high-quality essentials. Buying high-quality necessities can be costly at first. But their durability lessens your future expenses. This saves a lot of expenses in the long run.
Prepare homemade dog food. Preparing fresh meals for your pup is a practical alternative to commercial dog food. Having white meat and veggies in bulk can save you a lot of money. Other breeds might not like this kind of dog food. However, homemade food is quite suitable for guard dogs like the Shar-Pei.
Groom your dog at home. You may save more money by learning how to groom your pup yourself. YouTube has loads of DIY pet grooming tutorials. You can also ask other Shar-Pei owners for advice.
Visit the vet regularly. Thousands of dollars are usually spent on expensive treatments like surgery. Avoid such expenses by regularly bringing your pup to its routine vet check-ups.
Saving money shouldn’t mean disregarding your dog’s needs. You may cut costs while still providing excellent care for your Shar-Pei.
Final Thoughts
Like other pets, Shar-Peis make great companions. This breed is fiercely loyal to its family. However, before purchasing or adopting this dog breed, consider initial, monthly, and yearly expenses.
To keep costs to a minimum, buy high-quality items to avoid repeated purchases. When you have to keep buying the same things again and over, even the cheapest items end up costing more in the long run.
Consider the Shar-Pei price as a combined cost of vet bills, food, supplies, grooming, and a lot more.
We’d love to hear your Shar-Pei experiences through the comment section below.
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