The Bull-Pei is a mixed breed dog–a cross between the Chinese Shar-Pei and English Bulldog breeds. Medium in size, loving, and loyal, these pups inherited some of the best traits from both of their parents.
Despite their unfortunate status as a designer breed, you may find these pups in shelters and breed specific rescues, so remember to adopt! Don’t shop!
Bull-Peis make excellent companions and guard dogs without being too large or requiring much exercise. They’re striking to look at because of their wrinkles. Just make sure that you have the time to keep your pup clean and dry, as they are prone to getting skin infections between the wrinkles.
These dogs can live in apartments or houses. If you’re looking for a chill companion dog who looks quite distinguished, the Bull-Pei may be perfect for you.
Breed Characteristics:
Adaptability
Contrary to popular belief, small size doesn’t necessarily an apartment dog make. Plenty of small dogs are too high-energy and yappy for life in a high-rise. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog. And you can find an awesome crate for your dog here to give them a little more personal space in your apartment.
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All Around Friendliness
Some breeds are independent and aloof, even if they’ve been raised by the same person since puppyhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn’t the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.
See Dogs Less Affectionate with Family
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!
Health And Grooming Needs
If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.
If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.
Dogs come in all sizes, from the world’s smallest pooch, the Chihuahua, to the towering Great Dane, how much space a dog takes up is a key factor in deciding if they’re compatible with you and your living space. Large dog breeds might seem overpowering and intimidating, but some of them are incredibly sweet! Take a look and find the right sized dog for you!
Trainability
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.
Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase–and sometimes kill–other animals. Anything whizzing by, such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars, can trigger that instinct. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed or kept in a fenced area when outdoors, and you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard. These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes with barks or howls. If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.
Physical Needs
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group:Mixed Breed DogsHeight:16 to 18 inchesWeight:35 to 65 pounds Life Span:9 to 11 years
More About This Breed
Highlights
- The Bull-Pei is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their English Bulldog or Shar-Pei parents.
- The main colors of Bull-Pei’s are black, brown, grey, white, and fawn. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors.
- They’re generally not considered allergy friendly. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do.
- Bull-Peis may be more suitable for households with older kids who know how to behave and interact with animals.
- They can get along well with other dogs, if they are raised with them. If they take after the Shar-Pei parent, they may make a better solo pet.
- Bull-Peis don’t need too much exercise. They may only require about 40 to 60 minutes of exercise per day.
- Bull-Peis personalities can be somewhat placid and are not overly excitable. They’re very content around their loved ones and won’t be too concerned about making friends outside of their home.
History
The Bull-Pei mixed breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Chinese Shar-Peis and English Bulldogs in the 1990s, likely in North America.
Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to create a distinguished looking, companion guard dog. They continued to create Bull-Peis as demand for the mixed breed grew.
Even though the Bull-Pei mixed breed got its start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you.
Check your local shelters, look up Bull-Pei rescues, or check with breed specific Shar-Pei and English Bulldog rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them.
This mixed bred is recognized by:
- ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
- DDKC = Designer Dogs Kennel Club
- DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.
- IDCR = International Designer Canine Registry®
Size
As the Bull-Pei is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Shar-Pei and English Bulldog parents, you can expect Bull-Peis to be medium in size.
Most weigh in at 35 to 65 pounds and range in height from 16 to 18 inches at the shoulder. However some can be larger or smaller. There is relatively no difference between the males and females in terms of size.
Personality
Bull-Peis personalities can be somewhat placid and are not overly excitable. They’re very content around their loved ones and won’t be too concerned about making friends outside of their home.
While the Shar-Pei tends to be more active than the English Bulldog, their Bull-Pei pups don’t need too much exercise. They may only require about 40 to 60 minutes of exercise per day.
Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training, and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them.
If you adopt a adult Bull-Pei, closely supervise them around children. English Bulldogs are known for having a great disposition around children. That is not the case with Chinese Shar-Peis. Above all else, socialization is the key for having a well rounded dog.
Health
The Bull-Pei mixed breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Shar-Pei and English Bulldog also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups.
Some of the more common health problems Bull-Peis suffer from include:
- Skin Problems
- Breathing Difficulty
- Hypothyroidism
- Cancer
- Patellar Luxation
- Bloat
It’s fun to spoil our dogs with treats, but keeping your dog’s weight in check is one of the best things you can do for them. Chopped carrots or celery make great little healthy treats.
Care
As with all dogs, you should keep up with your Bull-Pei’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog living as long as possible.
Make sure your dog is clean between the folds of their skin to keep them from getting infections.
Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. Trim your dog’s nails before they get too long–usually once or twice per month. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this.
One of the toughest jobs in caring for any dog will be maintaining their oral health. You should brush their teeth daily, as many dogs are prone to dental issues. Your veterinarian can instruct you on how to brush your dog’s teeth properly.
If you find your dog dragging their bottom or “scooting” they may need to have their anal glands expressed. You can do this yourself, or have a vet or groomer do it.
Feeding
An ideal Bull-Pei diet should be formulated for a medium-sized breed. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. Look for a high quality dog food.
As with all dogs, the Bull-Pei’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Bull-Pei’s diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs–including weight, energy, and health–to make a specific recommendation.
Coat Color And Grooming
Bull-Pei coats are often a mix of their Shar-Pei and English Bulldog parents’ coats and colors. The main colors of Bull-Pei’s are black, brown, grey, white, and fawn. Rarely solid, their coats typically have a blend of two or more colors.
They usually have short coats, and they’re generally not considered allergy friendly. Luckily, their coats are very easy to groom. A good brushing per week will probably do, it helps spread the oil through their coat.
Bathe approximately every twelve weeks. Frequent baths can irritate their skin. After bathing, they need to be thoroughly dried between all the folds of their skin to keep them from getting yeast infections.
Because they tend to have shorter coats, Bull-Peis aren’t particularly suited for extreme weather. You’ll likely need a coat in the winter for your dog, and you may need to apply dog sunscreen to the ears, nose, and sensitive areas where there’s less fur coverage in the summer months.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, odor, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Children And Other Pets
While English Bulldogs are known for being fond of kids, Chinese Shar-Peis don’t have the same innate adoration for small humans. Bull-Peis could go either way. If they are raised from puppyhood, chances are they will be overly protective every member of their home.
Bull-Peis may be more suitable for households with older kids who know how to behave and interact with animals.
They can get along well with other dogs, if they are raised with them. Shar-Pei’s can be aggressive and territorial, so if the Bull-Pei has more of this side of the parental gene pool, they would make a better solo pet.
Close supervision around other animals is strongly recommended. This mixed breed could be prone to chasing cats and other small animals.
Learn more about this pup by reading about their parent breeds, the Chinese Shar-Pei and English Bulldog.
Rescue Groups
It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for Bull-Peis because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try English Bulldog or Shar-Pei breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:
- The Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network
- Pei Land Shar Pei Rescue
