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Shar-Poo Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Shar-Poo so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Designer Dogs
Popularity Rank1941
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Shar-Poo dog profile picture
OriginGermany flagGermany France flagFrance China flagChina
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Cross Breed Shar-Pei and Poodle mix

Shar-Poo Size and Weight

Size
Is a Shar-Poo small, medium or large dog?

How big do Shar-Poo get?

What is the average size of a Shar-Poo?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Shar-Poo weigh? How much should a Shar-Poo weight? What is the normal weight of a Shar-Poo? How much does a full-grown Shar-Poo weight?
Male: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg), Female: 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Shar-Poo?
Male: 57.5 pounds (26 kg), Female: 52.5 pounds (23.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Shar-Poo? Shar-Poo height:
18-20 inches (46-51 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Shar-Poo?
19 inches (48.5 cm)

Shar-Poo Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Shar-Poo puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Shar-Poo in the United States? How much money is a Shar-Poo?

Where to buy a Shar-Poo with a good pedigree?

$1000-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Shar-Poo, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Shar-Poo for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Shar-Poo gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Shar-Poo? How many Shar-Poo are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Shar-Poo is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Shar-Poo Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Shar-Poo? Is the Shar-Poo breed dumb or smart?
Smart: The Shar-Poo dogs have great intelligence. They understand and memorize new commands in 15-25 repetitions.

The Shar-Poo is among the smartest dogs in the intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Shar-Poo dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Shar-Poo?
Shar-Poo dogs are easy to train. They find out the association between commands and actions quite quickly.
Watchdog Ability
Is Shar-Poo good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Shar-Poo dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Shar-Poo dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Shar-Poo dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Shar-Poo dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Shar-Poo can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Shar-Poo will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Shar-Poo Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Shar-Poo have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
ActiveLovingIndependentAlertIntelligentAffectionateDevotedTrainableFaithfulReservedSuspiciousInstinctual
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Shar-Poo sensitivity:
Shar-Poo dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Shar-Poo a good family dog?
Average to High: Shar-Poo dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Shar-Poo need? Shar-Poo social needs:
Shar-Poo dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Shar-Poo to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Shar-Poo roam?
Shar-Poo dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Shar-Poo have high prey drive?
Shar-Poo dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Shar-Poo Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Shar-Poo is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Shar-Poo dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Shar-Poo bark?
Average: The Shar-Poo barks occasionally. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is Shar-Poo good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Shar-Poo in an apartment?
Very house-friendly dog the Shar-Poo breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

Shar-Poo Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Shar-Poo dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Shar-Poo be left alone? How long can you leave a Shar-Poo alone?
Shar-Poo dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Shar-Poo Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Shar-Poo has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Shar-Poo? How much bite force does a Shar-Poo have? How strong is a Shar-Poo bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Shar-Poo bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Shar-Poo measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Shar-Poo is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Shar-Poo bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Shar-Poo bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Shar-Poo puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Shar-Poo, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Shar-Poo bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Shar-Poo can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do Shar-Poo bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Shar-Poo? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Shar-Poo? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Shar-Poo has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Shar-Poo do?
Shar-Poo dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Shar-Poo dogs need to be taught a good attitude. We have compiled a list of Mouthy Dog Breeds.

Shar-Poo Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Shar-Poo dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
Shar-Poos are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Shar-Poo breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Shar-Poo breed? Most common health risks of Shar-Poo:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia Legg-perthes DiseasePatellar LuxationAllergiesCancerHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Von Willebrand's DiseaseBloatEpilepsySebaceous AdenitisEntropionEar InfectionsElbow DysplasiaDemodectic MangeOsteochondrosis DissecansGlaucomaAddison's DiseaseCushing's SyndromeSeborrheaRunny EyesCanine Atrial Septal Defect (asd)Neonatal Encephalopathy (news)Optic Nerve HypoplasiaPremature GrayingCutaneous MucinosisFeverPyoderma
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Shar-Poo breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Shar-Poo see the vet?
Rare
The Shar-Poo should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Shar-Poo dogs live? How old can a Shar-Poo be? What is the age limit of the Shar-Poo? How many years can the oldest Shar-Poo live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Shar-Poo?

How long is the lifespan of a Shar-Poo?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of Shar-Poo: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

Shar-Poo Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Shar-Poo have? What is the activity level of the Shar-Poo?
Shar-Poo dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Shar-Poo need? How much exercise do Shar-Poo dogs require per day?

Do Shar-Poo dogs need a lot of exercises?

Shar-Poo dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Shar-Poo breed need?
Shar-Poo dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Shar-Poo Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Shar-Poo need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Shar-Poo breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Shar-Poo? How much food should I feed my Shar-Poo?
2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Shar-Poo risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shar-Poo's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Shar-Poo weight regularly.

Shar-Poo Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Shar-Poo have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
DenseCurly
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Shar-Poo coats?
BlackGray Red Blue Cream White SilverBrownFawnBeige Apricot
Grooming
How to groom the Shar-Poo and how often? How often should I take my Shar-Poo to the groomer?
Advanced: The Shar-Poo requires a lot of grooming. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer can be helpful sometimes.

Regular brushed dog's coat is less likely to shed. Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Occasional dog nail trimming and dog baths are important.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and to give your Shar-Poo a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Shar-Poo, search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do Shar-Poo dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Shar-Poo? Do Shar-Poo dogs shed a lot?
Shar-Poo dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Shar-Poo dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Shar-Poo need a bath? How often should you give a Shar-Poo a bath? Can I bathe my Shar-Poo every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Shar-Poo breed hypoallergenic?
No
Shar-Poo dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

High 🔼

The Shar-Poo has a high chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Shar-Poo drool?
The Shar-Poo is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Shar-Poo Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Shar-Poo dogs get along with other pets? Are Shar-Poo dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Shar-Poo dogs are usually friendly towards other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Shar-Poo temperament with other people:
Shar-Poo dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Shar-Poo dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Shar-Poo temperament with children:
Shar-Poo dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Shar-Poo dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Shar-Poo breed live with a cat?
Shar-Poo dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Shar-Poo good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Shar-Poo dogs get along with other dogs?
Shar-Poo dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Shar-Poo breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Shar-Poo breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Shar-Poo dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Shar-Poo dogs good office canines? Do Shar-Poo dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Shar-Poo is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Shar-Poo dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Shar-Poo temperament with senior people? Are Shar-Poo dogs good for elderly owners?
Shar-Poos are commonly okay with elderly people.

Shar-Poo As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Shar-Poo be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Yes

This breed makes good as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Shar-Poo breed is a good choice for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Shar-Poo be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Shar-Poo be an emotional support animal?

Yes

This breed makes a perfect therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Shar-Poo breed is a good choice for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Shar-Poo be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Shar-Poo is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Shar-Poo be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Shar-Poo is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Shar-Poo be a boat dog?

Not really

Shar-Poo breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Yes

Shar-Poo breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Shar-Poo be a drafting dog?

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Shar-Poo breed is a good choice for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Shar-Poo dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shar-Poo Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Shar-Poo pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Shar-Poo breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Shar-Poo: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Shar-Poo have in a litter? How many puppies can the Shar-Poo breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Shar-Poo have? How many puppies can a Shar-Poo give birth to?
4-6 puppies

Shar-Poo Recognition

AKC Group
Is Shar-Poo recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Shar-Poo recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Shar-Poo Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Smart: The Shar-Poo dogs have great intelligence.
  • Trainability: Shar-Poo dogs are easy to train.
  • Health Issues: Shar-Poos are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Friendly: Very house-friendly dog the Shar-Poo breed.
  • Shedding Level: Shar-Poo dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Watchdog Ability: Shar-Poo dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Shar-Poo dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Cat Friendly: Shar-Poo dogs are cat-friendly dogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Shar-Poo dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Service Dog: This breed makes good as a service dog.
  • Therapy Dog: This breed makes a perfect therapy dog.
  • Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog: A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Shar-Poo dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming: Advanced: The Shar-Poo requires a lot of grooming.
  • Stinkiness: The Shar-Poo has a high chance of bad smell.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shar-Poo's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: Shar-Poo dogs have a strong tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: Shar-Poo dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Shar-Poo is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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