Why Does the Shar Pei Have Wrinkles? The Science Behind It

The Chinese Shar-Pei is one of the most distinctive dog breeds, famous for its deep wrinkles and loose, velvety skin.

While their wrinkles contribute to their adorable and unique appearance, they serve more than just a cosmetic purpose.

These folds have historical, genetic, and functional significance that traces back thousands of years.

In this article, we explore the science behind Shar Pei’s wrinkles, their origins, and what makes them so special.

History: The Story Behind Their Skin

The Shar Pei is an ancient breed that originated in China over 2,000 years ago.

Originally bred for guarding, hunting, and herding, their distinctive skin folds served a practical purpose.

During battles or when protecting property, the Shar Pei’s loose skin allowed them to move freely even when an opponent latched onto them. This made them formidable and resilient fighters.

Shar Peis nearly faced extinction in the mid-20th century, but thanks to preservation efforts, they regained popularity worldwide.

Today, they are known as loyal companions with a one-of-a-kind look, thanks in part to their genetically inherited wrinkles.

The Significance of the Shar Pei’s Wrinkles

The wrinkles of the Shar Pei serve multiple functions beyond aesthetics:

• Protection – Their loose skin made it difficult for attackers to get a strong grip.
• Heritage – Wrinkles are an inherited trait that links them to their ancient Chinese roots.
• Health Indicator – While their wrinkles are a key feature, they also require proper care to prevent infections and skin conditions.

Shar Pei Characteristics

The table below highlights key characteristics of the Shar Pei breed:

Characteristic	Description
Origin	China
Size	Medium-sized, 40-60 lbs
Coat Type	Short, bristly
Lifespan	8-12 years
Temperament	Loyal, independent, protective
Common Colors	Fawn, black, cream, blue, red
Exercise Needs	Moderate
Trainability	Can be stubborn but intelligent

Different Types of Wrinkles in Shar Peis

Not all Shar Peis have the same type of wrinkles. Depending on genetics and breeding, they may have different amounts and distributions of folds:

• Puppy Wrinkles: All Shar Pei puppies are born with deep wrinkles, but some lose them as they grow.
• Adult Wrinkles: Some Shar Peis retain heavy folds around their face and neck throughout adulthood.
• Horse Coat Wrinkles: Shar Peis with a shorter, rougher coat tend to have fewer wrinkles than those with softer coats.
• Meat Mouth Wrinkles: Dogs with heavier wrinkles around the muzzle and face, giving them a “meaty” appearance.
• Body Wrinkles: Some Shar Peis have wrinkles covering their entire body, while others primarily have them on their face and neck.

The Shar Pei’s signature wrinkles are the result of a genetic mutation that affects their skin’s production of hyaluronic acid.

While these deep folds give the breed its unique and charming appearance, they stem from a fascinating biological process that influences skin structure, elasticity, and overall health.

Let’s break down the science behind these wrinkles in detail.

Genetic Mutation in the HAS2 Gene

The primary cause of the Shar Pei’s wrinkles lies in a mutation of the HAS2 (Hyaluronan Synthase 2) gene.

This gene is responsible for producing hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the skin and connective tissues of most mammals, including dogs and humans.

In Shar Peis, this genetic mutation triggers an overproduction of hyaluronic acid, leading to an excess accumulation in the skin layers.

The high concentration of hyaluronic acid in the skin results in an unusual thickening and folding of the tissue, creating the breed’s characteristic deep wrinkles.

Interestingly, the degree of wrinkling in a Shar Pei depends on how strongly this gene mutation is expressed.

Some Shar Peis have extreme folds, while others have milder wrinkling, depending on their genetic makeup.

Overproduction of Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is an essential molecule for skin hydration, elasticity, and wound healing. It functions by retaining moisture and lubricating tissues, which is why it’s often used in cosmetic skincare products for humans.

In the Shar Pei, however, the overproduction of hyaluronic acid causes excessive skin folding and a thickened dermis (skin layer).

This abundance of hyaluronic acid results in mucin deposits, a gel-like substance that accumulates in the skin and gives it a loose, padded, and wrinkled texture.

These deposits contribute to the Shar Pei’s distinctive appearance but also make the breed more prone to certain skin conditions, such as infections and inflammation.

Water Retention in Skin Cells

Hyaluronic acid is highly hydrophilic, meaning it attracts and retains large amounts of water.

In Shar Peis, the excessive amounts of this substance cause the skin cells to retain water, further exaggerating the folds and wrinkles.

This water-retaining property makes Shar Pei’s skin feel thick, soft, and sometimes even slightly sticky or “gummy” to the touch.

While this trait contributes to their unique look, it can also create an ideal environment for bacterial and yeast infections, as moisture can become trapped in the deep folds.

Changes Over Time: Wrinkles in Puppies vs. Adults

Shar Pei puppies are born with prominent, heavy wrinkles covering their entire bodies, making them look like tiny, folded bundles of skin.

However, as they grow, many of these wrinkles gradually smooth out, particularly in standard-coated Shar Peis.

This reduction in wrinkles occurs because:

• The skin stretches and becomes tighter as the dog grows.
• Hyaluronic acid production may decrease slightly over time.
• Different coat types influence wrinkle retention.

Shar Pei Coat Types and Wrinkling

• Horse-Coat Shar Peis: Have shorter, rougher fur and typically retain fewer wrinkles in adulthood.
• Brush-Coat Shar Peis: Have slightly longer, softer fur and often keep more wrinkles.
• Bear-Coat Shar Peis: Though not officially recognized, they have a longer, fluffier coat and can sometimes maintain significant wrinkles.

Health Risks: The Link Between Wrinkles and Shar Pei Fever

While the excessive hyaluronic acid in Shar Peis gives them their famous wrinkles, it also predisposes them to a hereditary inflammatory condition called Shar Pei Fever (Familial Shar Pei Fever, or FSF).

This condition is linked to:

• Inflammatory responses caused by excessive hyaluronic acid breakdown.
• Periodic fevers and swelling, particularly in the hocks (ankle joints).
• Increased risk of amyloidosis, a disorder where protein deposits accumulate in organs like the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to organ failure.

Since Shar Pei Fever is associated with the same genetic mutation that causes their wrinkles, dogs with more extreme folds may be at a higher risk of developing inflammatory-related health issues.

Conclusion

Shar Pei’s wrinkles are a defining feature with deep historical and genetic roots.

From their origins in ancient China to their status as beloved companions, these wrinkles have played an important role in their identity.

While their unique skin structure makes them stand out, it also comes with health considerations that require diligent care.

Proper skin maintenance, a healthy diet, and regular vet check-ups ensure that these wrinkled wonders live a happy and healthy life.

FAQs About Shar Pei Wrinkles