History/Origin

It is believed that the hybrid may have originated around the 2000s, likely in North America. Although Lab Pei is a relatively new breed of designer dog, his lineage dates back centuries.

As a hybrid, the Lab Pei does not qualify to be a member of the elite American Kennel Club’s (AKC). His parents, however, have both achieved AKC status; the Labrador retriever was admitted to the club’s “sporting” group back in 1917 and the Shar-Pei became a member of the “non-sporting” group as recently as 1992.

Lab Pei Pictures

Quick Information on Lab Pei (Shar Pei Lab Mix)

Appearance

A Chinese Shar-Pei Lab mix is a medium-sized dog with a strongly built structure. Their face resembles very much like their lab parent and they weigh between 55-70 pounds and standing 18-25 inches in height.

Lab Pei has a short coat that may be dense and water resistant, a trait they inherit from their Labrador lineage.

These hybrids are not as wrinkled like their parent breed the Shar-Pei, but they will tend to have loose facial skin around their forehead.

The Lab-Pei have small almond-shaped eyes and their ears are set high on the head and are semi-flopped down, with a pointed tip.

They have a wide and broad head, while their muzzle tends to be medium in length, their noses are black to dark brown and their tails are set high and are semi-curved.

Temperament and Behavior

These dogs generally have an even, protective,  and loving nature which they inherit from their parents.

It has a very loyal and protective nature, making it a terrific watch and guard dog.

The Shar-Pei and Labs have very different temperaments. While the Lab is friendly and outgoing pooch, the Shar-Pei can be more reserved, thus the resultant Lab-Pei can be difficult to predict at times.

Their Labrador Retriever and Chinese Shar-Pei lineage make an intelligent and affectionate dog that is highly trainable and keen to please its humans.

Exercise

Adequate exercise and physical activities are recommended for this average large sized Lab Pei breed. Since both the parent breed the Labrador retriever and the Shar-Pei are on the heavier side, it’s important that the Shar-Pei Lab Mix has a regular exercise routine in order to help him stay fit and healthy.

He has a high instinct to play and run around so a fenced yard or off-leash spacious zone where he can run and interact with other dogs is ideal.

An ideal balance between their physical and mental health should be maintained, and prevent them from being flippant, bored and destructive.

Grooming

The Lab Pei is an average to low maintenance canine breed as they don’t require extensive grooming.

They have a short coat, which makes brushing twice a week adequate to remove the loose fur and debris and shall maintain the natural glow.

This dog isn’t a big fan of water at all, so bathing is a rare thing. However, when untidy or you may bathe him maybe once 6-8 months for proper hygiene.

If your pet has some wrinkles and folds on their skin, it is essential that these folds be cleaned on a regular basis and wiped properly in order to prevent bacteria and yeast buildup.

Ears should be cleaned and checked on a regular basis for signs of infection and nails trimming and teeth brushing as done to other similar pet dogs.

Health Problems

Hybrid dogs won’t necessarily experience the same health issues as his parents. Many genetic disorders bypass the hybrid entirely. However, both general and genetic issues can’t be ignored.

Lab Pei Dogs may be prone to  Dysplasia, luxation, cherry eye, ear infections, stenotic nares, tight lips, malocclusion, hypothyroidism, demodectic mange, oleosa, hot spots, skin odor, etc. can’t also be ruled out.

This breed may suffer from entropion (wrinkles causing eyelids to fold in) from the Shar Pei side.

Training

Give them socialization and housebreaking training from the time you bring them home from the breeders.

Train the puppies consistently and with firm hands. Praise your dog or give them treats whenever it finds success or displays obedience.

Feeding/Diet

Your dog is quite an active and energetic one, who requires a healthy diet that would provide it with an optimal nutrition.

The Lab Pei should eat 2 to 4 cups( depending on the size) of good quality dry food like kibbles every day.

Meals should be small but frequent instead of one large meal once a day to prevent bloating.

The Lab Pei dogs have a tendency to overeat and hence become obese. This gives rise to a high risk of developing hip dysplasia and joint problems is a recipe for disaster.

Thus they should be fed with a controlled diet with the right amount of calories and nutrition to prevent them from being over-weight.

Shar Pei Lab Mix Puppies

Your Lab Pei puppy will need to be put on a diet specific for large breed dog puppies to help maintain a slower growth rate.

Feed him over several meal periods and ensure he has plenty of toys to keep him mentally stimulated and out of trouble.

Typically 1 cup per 6 pounds of body weight should be sufficient for growth of 2-3 pounds per week. Make sure to feed them in moderation so that they don’t overeat.

Too much exercise may tire him out but can also result in joint injuries that may plague him the rest of his life.

Video: Lab Pei Puppies Playing

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