Shar Peis are known for their wrinkly skin and Chinese heritage. These dogs are loyal and protective, making them great family pets. However, they can also be independent and stubborn, so it’s important to start training early. Shar Peis require a lot of exercise, so make sure to take them on walks or runs every day.
The Shar Pei is has many special dietary needs. When it comes to food, Shar Peis need a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed is also prone to allergies, so it’s important to choose a food that does not contain any common allergens.
That’s why it’s important to choose the best dog food for Shar Peis if you want your pet to stay healthy and happy. In this article, we will discuss the 11 best dog foods for Shar Peis, along with reviews of each, as well as how to choose the right diet for your furry friend.
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The 10 Best Dog Foods for Shar Peis
1. The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork Recipe – Best Overall
| Main ingredients | USDA Pork, Sweet Potato, Potato, Green Beans, Cauliflower |
| Protein content | 39% |
| Fat content | 32% |
| Calories | 311 kcal per 1/2 lb |
Made fresh with limited ingredients, The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork Recipe stands out from the pack by rebelling against processed dry food that’s formed from inflammatory ingredients. Each meal arrives at your door already cooked, frozen, and divided into portions. All you need to do to prepare the meals is defrost and pour.
The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe is our choice for the best overall food for Shar Peis because the ingredients address breed-specific issues related to their stomach, skin, and coat. The recipe appeases allergies by using limited, high quality ingredients and swapping common proteins for pork, a lean meat that doesn’t usually trigger as many allergic reactions as chicken and beef. The fish oil is also beneficial for managing allergies and inflammation because of the rich content of omega 3s. Sweet potatoes support gut health and eyesight, which can also be problems for the Shar Pei.
Like all recipes by The Farmer’s Dog, the Pork Recipe is grain-free. However, current research suggests that grain-free diets that swap heart-healthy whole grains for potatoes and lentils may put canines at a higher risk of cardiomyopathy.
- Fish oil nourishes skin and coat
- Pork is an allergen-friendly protein
- Sweet potatoes promote stomach and eye health
- Food arrives already cooked, divided into portions, and frozen
- Grain-free
2. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – Best Value
| Main ingredients | Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lentils, Peas |
| Protein content | 34% |
| Fat content | 12% |
| Calories | 342 per cup |
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Large Breed Dry Dog Food is our pick for the best dog food for Shar Peis for the money. Although the price looks expensive, this is for a 26-pound bag, so the price works out to less than $3 per pound. This is a high-protein recipe that is recommended by veterinarians. It supports the five signs of wellbeing: overall vitality, healthy digestion, skin and coat health, immune health, and joint health.
Wellness CORE natural grain-free dry dog food is a great option for pet parents who are looking for an affordable food that meets all of their Shar Pei’s needs. The chicken and turkey formula is sure to appeal to most dog breeds. However, it won’t be suitable if your Shar Pei is allergic to chicken, a common dog allergy. And because it is grain-free, it does contain peas, which are being potentially linked to dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs, although studies to confirm this are still ongoing by the FDA.
- Affordable
- High in protein
- Supports the 5 signs of wellbeing
- Recommended by veterinarians
- Not suitable for dogs with a chicken allergy
- Contains peas
3. Orijen Regional Red Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Beef, Wild Boar, Lamb, Pork, Beef Liver |
| Protein content | 38% |
| Fat content | 18% |
| Calories | 463 per cup |
Orijen’s Regional Red Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is another good pick for Shar Peis that are active. It’s great if you’re looking for a premium option and it is another recipe that is high in protein. This particular recipe is beef flavored, but there is also an Original flavor (chicken and turkey), Six Fish flavor, and Tundra flavor (lamb and venison), so this should meet the needs of any Shar Pei’s diets and potential dietary restrictions.
Back to this recipe though: it is made with a variety of meats, including red meat, to help maintain muscle mass and energy levels. It also contains a blend of omega fatty acids to support the skin and coat. However, being a premium choice, it is more expensive than other brands.
- Made with a variety of meats
- High in protein
- Supports skin and coat health
- Multiple flavors available
- More expensive than other brands
4. ACANA Puppy Recipe Dry Food
| Main ingredients | Chicken, Turkey, Chicken Meal, Whole Green Peas, Whole Red Lentils |
| Protein content | 31% |
| Fat content | 19% |
| Calories | 408 per cup |
ACANA’s Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food is our pick for the best dog food for Shar Pei puppies. It’s made with 65% animal ingredients and 35% plant ingredients, and it’s made without preservatives or artificial flavors and colors.
It is also high in protein and fat, which a growing puppy, especially one the size of a Shar Pei, needs in order to grow up healthy. However, it’s also a more expensive option, and you will have to switch to a different food when your puppy grows into an adult.
- Made with high-quality ingredients
- High in protein and fat
- Free of preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors
- More expensive than other brands
- Not suitable for adult dogs
5. VICTOR Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Beef Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Millet, Grain Sorghum, Chicken Fat |
| Protein content | 27% |
| Fat content | 11.5% |
| Calories | 360 per cup |
If you have a senior Shar Pei, they may benefit from VICTOR Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food. Shar Peis are prone to weight gain, especially as they age and become less active, so this food helps them maintain a healthy weight due to being lower in fat and calories than other foods, while still having a higher protein contein.
This food is beef flavored, so it should appeal to most dogs unless they have a beef allergy. It also contains chicken and fish meals, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. However, it only comes in one flavor, so your Shar Pei may not like it if they don’t like beef. And it is only suitable for senior Shar Peis, so healthy adults and puppies will need a different formula.
- Great for senior dogs
- Lower in calories and fat to maintain weight
- Contains ingredients for joint health
- Only comes in one flavor
- Not suitable for healthy adults and puppies
6. Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Brewers Rice, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Fat, Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal |
| Protein content | 22% |
| Fat content | 15% |
| Calories | 372 per cup |
The Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Dry Dog Food is another great dog food for Shar Peis. Royal Canin is a trusted name in the pet food industry, and their Shar Pei adult dry dog food is specially formulated to meet the unique needs of this breed.
This food is ideal if your Shar Pei has dry, sensitive skin, and it’s low in calories to help prevent weight gain. It also contains a special blend of antioxidants to support the immune system. However, it does not have real meat as the first ingredient, which is preferable when it comes to dog food. It also contains some artificial ingredients, so unless your Shar Pei specifically needs a skin and coat formula designed just for the breed, this food may not be the best choice.
- Ideal for skin and coat health
- Supports the immune system
- Designed just for the Shar Pei breed
- No meat as the first ingredient
- Contains some artificial ingredients
7. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Chicken, Chicken Meal, Yellow Peas, Cracked Pearl Barley, Brown Rice |
| Protein content | 20% |
| Fat content | 13% |
| Calories | 394 per cup |
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food is another great skin and coat formula for Shar Peis, and this one also helps if your Shar Pei has a sensitive stomach, provided that they aren’t allergic to chicken. We like that the ingredients in this food seem to be better than the previous choice, it’s just not specifically made for Shar Peis.
The downside to this food is that it is a bit lower in protein and fat than some of the other options. It also contains chicken as the main protein source, which is not good for Shar Peis with a chicken allergy.
- Real meat as first ingredient
- Supports skin and coat health
- Supports sensitive stomach
- Lower in protein and fat
- Some dogs may be allergic to chicken
8. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Water Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas |
| Protein content | 32% |
| Fat content | 18% |
| Calories | 422 per cup |
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best dog food for Shar Peis with allergies to protein ingredients, because it is made with novel proteins such as water buffalo and lamb. But, there are five other flavors you can choose from as well if your Shar Pei doesn’t have any allergies or just doesn’t care for this particular flavor.
It is also high in protein and fat to help maintain muscle mass and energy levels. It’s made in the USA as well. However, it is a grain-free formula, meaning it contains peas, so it brings the same concerns as the Wellness food in number two.
- Novel protein
- Made in the USA
- Great for dogs with allergies and sensitivities
- Contains peas
- Some dogs may not like this flavor
9. Nutro Natural Choice Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Chicken, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Barley |
| Protein content | 22% |
| Fat content | 14% |
| Calories | 341 per cup |
Nutro Natural Choice Dry Dog Food is a great option for Shar Peis all life stages. This grain-inclusive food is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and is formulated to help with dental health, promote strong bones and muscles, and provide energy. In addition, this food contains a blend of vitamins and minerals for overall health.
The downside is that it contains chicken as the main protein source, which we’ve already mentioned is a common dog allergen. But, it does come in other flavors as well. It’s also lower in protein and fat than other options, and it is a bit pricey compared to some of the other foods on this list.
- Promotes dental health
- Great for all life stages
- Real meat as the first ingredient
- Not suitable for dogs with a chicken allergy
- Lower in protein and fat
- More expensive than other brands
10. Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult Complete Essentials Lamb and Vegetables Wet Dog Food
| Main ingredients | Water, Lamb, Liver, Wheat Gluten, Chicken |
| Protein content | 9% |
| Fat content | 2.5% |
| Calories | 320 per can |
Our final product for the best dog food for Shar Peis is the Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult Complete Essentials wet dog food. We wanted to include a wet food option on this list because wet foods tend to be more appetizing to dogs, and they can provide more hydration. This food from Purina checks almost all the boxes for what you want in a good canned food.
In addition to healthy ingredients such as lamb, liver, carrots, green beans, and potatoes, it also contains 23 vitamins and minerals for a well-rounded diet for adult dogs. It contains 9% protein (50% on a dry matter basis) and 2.5% fat (13.89% on a dry matter basis), putting it higiher in protein than most dry formulas but on par with fat content, so it shouldn’t make your Shar Pei gain weight. You get 12 cans of this food.
It is hard to find fault with this particlar recipe, but wet dog food does have some downsides in general. It tends to be less cost-effective than dry food, especially for a dog the size of a Shar Pei. It also is worse for dental health since it doesn’t provide that crunch to help clean teeth. This particular recipe does contain chicken, so it may not be suitable for dogs with a chicken allergy.
- Low in fat and calories
- Contains 23 vitamins and minerals
- High in protein with healthy ingredients
- Not as cost-effective
- Wet foods are worse for dental health
- May not be suitable for dogs with a chicken allergy
Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Food for Your Shar Pei
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a food for your Shar-Pei:
- Consider your dog’s activity level. Active dogs need more calories and protein than sedentary dogs.
- Choose a food that is high in protein and fat. Shar Peis need a diet that is high in protein and fat to help maintain muscle mass and energy levels.
- Select a food that is appropriate for your dog’s life stage. Puppies, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs.
- Choose a food that your dog will enjoy eating. Some dogs are pickier than others, so it’s important to find a food that your dog will actually eat.
Choosing Treats for Your Shar Pei
In addition to a healthy diet, treats can be a great way to show your dog some extra love. When choosing treats for your Shar Pei, look for ones that are:
- High in protein
- Low in fat
- Free of artificial ingredients
- Easy to digest
- Made with natural ingredients
- Tasty and nutritious
Shar-Pei Dietary Considerations
Shar Peis are a unique breed of dog with some special dietary considerations. Here are a few things to keep in mind when feeding your Shar-Pei:
- Shar Peis are prone to weight gain, so it’s important to feed them a diet that is high in protein and low in calories.
- Shar Peis are also prone to skin problems, so it’s important to choose a food that contains omega-fatty acids to support the skin and coat.
- Puppies need a diet that is high in protein and fat to help them grow and develop properly.
- Senior Shar Peis may need a diet that is lower in calories and fat to help them maintain a healthy weight.
- Shar Peis are known to be picky eaters, so it’s important to find a food that your dog will actually eat.
Common Shar Pei Health Problems
It’s important to figure in a breed’s most common health problems when you choose their food. Ask your vet for food suggestions if your Shar Pei has a particular health issue that an appropriate diet can help with.
- Shar-Pei Fever: This is a condition that causes inflammation and fever in Shar Peis. It is thought to be caused by an immune system reaction to a bacterial infection.
- Skin Problems: Shar Peis are prone to skin problems, such as allergies, hot spots, and infections.
- Eye Problems: Shar Peis are also susceptible to eye problems, such as entropion and glaucoma.
- Obesity: Shar Peis are prone to obesity.
- Dental Problems: Shar Peis often have problems with their teeth, such as tartar build-up and gum disease.
- Arthritis: Arthritis is a common problem in older Shar Peis. Foods containing glucosamine can help support joint health.
Should You Give Your Shar Pei Vitamins and Supplements?
Vitamins and supplements can be a great way to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. However, it’s important to talk to your vet before giving your Shar Pei any supplements, as too much of certain vitamins can be harmful, and many dog foods contain vitamins already that your Shar Pei can benefit from.
Some vitamins and supplements that may be beneficial for Shar Peis include:
- Omega-fatty acids: These can help support the skin and coat.
- Glucosamine: This can help support joint health.
- Antioxidants: These can help protect against cell damage.
- Probiotics: These can help support gut health.
- Vitamins A, C, and E: These vitamins can help support the immune system.
- Calcium: This is important for bone health.
- Vitamin B complex: This vitamin can help support energy levels.
Other Things You Should Consider
Diet and Skin Care
When it comes to the best dog food for Shar Peis, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, Shar Peis are prone to weight gain, so it’s important to feed them a diet that is high in protein and low in calories. Second, Shar Peis are also prone to skin problems, so it’s important to choose a food that contains omega-fatty acids to support the skin and coat. Finally, puppies need a diet that is high in protein and fat to help them grow and develop properly.
When it comes to skin care, it’s important to choose products that are free of artificial ingredients and easy to digest. Look for products that are made with natural ingredients and are safe for use on sensitive skin.
Should I Feed My Shar Pei a Grain-Free Diet?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Some Shar Peis do well on grain-free diets, while others do not. If you are unsure whether or not a grain-free diet is right for your dog, it’s best to talk to your vet.
What Type of Food Should I Avoid Feeding My Shar Pei?
There are a few types of food that you should avoid feeding your Shar Pei. First, avoid foods that are high in sugar and carbs, as these can lead to weight gain. Second, avoid foods that contain artificial ingredients, as these can be difficult for your dog to digest. Finally, avoid foods that are high in fat, as this can lead to health problems.
Diet and Dental Health
It’s important to choose a food that is high in protein and low in calories to help maintain a healthy weight. It’s also important to choose a food that will help support dental health. Dental problems are common in Shar Peis, so it’s important to find a food that contains ingredients that will help reduce tartar build-up and promote gum health.
Wet Food vs Dry Food
Shar Peis are known to be picky eaters, so it’s important to find a food that your dog will actually eat. Some Shar Peis prefer wet food, while others prefer dry food. There are benefits and drawbacks to both wet and dry food, so it’s important to do some research to figure out which type of food is best for your dog.
Dry food is typically more affordable and easier to store than wet food. It’s also less messy, so it’s a good option if you’re worried about your dog making a mess. However, dry food is often lower in moisture than wet food, which can be important for dogs who are prone to dehydration.
When to Consult Your Vet
If you’re still not sure what type of food is best for your Shar Pei, talk to your vet. They can help you choose a food that meets your dog’s individual needs.
Summary
Choosing the best dog food for your Shar Pei is important for their health and well-being. There are a lot of factors to consider, such as breed-specific health problems, dietary needs, and personal preferences. Our top pick is The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food Pork recipe for its all-natural, low-allergen ingredient list. However, with a little research, you should be able to find a food that is perfect for your dog. Thankfully, this list of the best dog foods for Shar Peis, plus information on how to choose the best diet for your Shar Pei, will help make the process a little easier.
Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock
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