Chinese Shar-Pei exhibit a wide variety of health problems.  The variety of health difficulties has several causative factors:
1)  When Shar-Pei were being rescued from extermination in China the specimens that arrived in the United States were not necessarily the best quality.
2)  The Shar-Pei "fad" led to mass production to meet the public demands.  Pet shops and puppy-mills had a means to make a quick buck.  Far too many dogs were being bred that were extremely poor specimens of the breed.
3)  Too many Shar-Pei are still being produced by people who are not striving to improve the breed.

        The safest means of obtaining a healthy sound Shar-Pei is by dealing with a reputable breeder.  Be sure that the breeder can present proof of health certification on both parents - and that you will receive a written health guarantee with the puppy.

Entropion
        Entropion is an eye condition in which the eyelid rolls in towards the eye.  The eyelashes or hair on the eyelid can rub against the cornea causing irritation and possibly corneal ulcers.  Surgery is required to correct this problem.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Entropion.

Hypothyroidism
         The thyroid gland produces a hormone which controls the metabolic rate of the animal.  Hypothyroidism (low thyroid production) displays a wide variety of symptoms ranging from dull thin hair to ear infections.  Hypothyroidism can even be asymptomatic.  Blood test for thyroid function is the only positive means of determining hypothyroidism.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Hypothyroidism.

Familial Shar-Pei Fever
        Familial Shar-Pei Fever (FSF) is a recurrent episodic fever disorder.  The Shar-Pei experiences an unexplained fever usually 103 - 107 degrees.  The fever episodes generally start at about 18 months of age.  Most fevers last 24 - 36 hours without treatment.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Familial Shar-Pei Fever.

Amyloidosis
        Amyloidosis is a generic term for a collection of diseases which causes an abnormal amount of amyloid protein to be deposited throughout the animals body.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Amyloidosis.

Demodectic Mange
        Demodectic mange is a skin condition caused by a tiny mite, Demodex canis, too small to be seen without a microscope.  Most dogs acquire Demodex mites from their mothers shortly after they are born.  Demodex mites are found on the skin of most animals, and yet these animals do not have a problem.  90% of all affected pups will improve if treated.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Demodectic Mange.

Seborrhea
        Chinese Shar-Pei are prone to primary seborrhea (seborrhea oleosa).  Symptoms include: yellow to yellow-brown scales, greasy coat and skin, itchy skin, skin infections and a rancid odor.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Seborrhea.

Malocclusion
        In the case of the Chinese Shar-Pei the most common form of malocclusion is that of overbite.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Malocclusion.

Tight Lip Syndrome
        Tight lip syndrome is usually associated with an overbite.  In this case excess flesh from the lower lip covers the lower front teeth.  This makes it difficult for the Shar-Pei to chew.  Trapped food particles can also lead to inflammation.  In many cases tight lip syndrome is surgically correctable.

Stenotic Nares (Collapsed nostrils)
        Stenotic nares is in lay terms constricted nostrils.  This condition can be very misleading, it sounds so minor and yet its impact can be significant to the health and well being of the dog.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Stenotic Nares.

Hip Dysplasia
        Dysplasia is the term used in referring to the abnormality of the hip joint.  This can range in severity from mild (controllable pain levels) to severe (dog must be put down).  The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is an evaluation organization, be sure that the parents of any puppy you are considering, has been cleared by the OFA.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Hip Dysplasia.

Gastric Dilatation Volvulus - Bloat
        As is the case with so many dogs Chinese Shar-Pei are prone toward Bloat.  They are deep chested and tend to swallow a great deal of air while eating.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Bloat.

Patellar Luxation
        Patellar Luxation is the dislocation (slipping) of the patella (kneecap) out of its socket.  It can be the result of injury or congenital (present at birth) deformities.  Patellar luxation can affect one or both rear legs.
For further information about this condition please see Medical Index/Patellar Luxation.