Shar Pei

The Shar Pei dog is a breed of dog that originated in China and has the distinctive features of deep wrinkles and a blue-black tongue. The name translates to "sand skin," not because of color but because of texture. As puppies, these dogs have lots of wrinkles, but as they mature, the wrinkles disappear as they "grow into their skin". The American Kennel Club did not recognize the breed until 1991.

The Shar Pei breed come in many colors but have the same characteristic blue-black tongue of the Chow Chow. Superabundant loose skin and wrinkles cover the neck, head, and body of puppies, but adult Shar Pei dog should grow into their skin so that these features are limited to the head, neck and withers. Improper breeding (detrimental to the health of the Shar Pei) produces adult dogs with wrinkles all over the body. Small ears, a muzzle shaped like that of a hippopotamus, and a high set tail also give the Shar Pei a unique look.