Cocker-Pei (Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More

If you’re searching for the perfect canine companion with the cutest wrinkled face and friendly nature, the Cocker-Pei is the perfect pet for you. The Cocker-Pei is a crossbreed of the beloved Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel. This American designer breed is ideal for singles and families. They are eager to please and love snuggling with and entertaining their family. Although slightly stubborn, the Cocker-Pei is an intelligent dog that can be easily trained and socialized with other animals.

Breed Overview

In this guide, we’ll discuss the attributes of the Cocker-Pei to help you determine whether you’re ready to spend your time playing and basking in the love of these adorably wrinkled animals.

Cocker-Pei Characteristics

Cocker-Pei Puppies

Cocker-Pei’s are not readily available since they’re not as common as other hybrids. However, choosing a reputable Cocker or Shar-Pei breeder is your best option. A good breeder ensures the safety of all animals in their care and avoids issues such as overbreeding.

Overbreeding is dangerous for the mothers and can often result in unhealthy puppies. When choosing a breeder, it is vital to only work with those who offer ideal living conditions and health situations for the animals in their care.

You may find it challenging to find a local Cocker-Pei breeder in your area. They are rare, but with a bit of research, you’ll find your next best friend. Sometimes, locating a Cocker-Pei in a local rescue or animal shelter may be possible.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Cocker-Pei

The Cocker-Pei is an easy-going dog and is perfect for almost any owner. They are intelligent, loving, loyal, and playful. Due to being a medium-sized dog, the Cocker-Pei can easily relax on the sofa at your side or kick back on the bed for a long nap. As long as they get the attention they need, they are up for almost any activity.

Cocker-Peis are quite intelligent and stubborn. The Shar-Pei was originally bred for fighting, while the Cocker Spaniel is a natural hunter. This means the Cocker-Pei will alert you immediately if there is a threat to your home or family. Their loving temperament ensures they will be at your side, no matter the situation.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

Most dogs must be socialized early to help them develop into well-behaved adults. The Cocker-Pei is no exception. With the Shar-Pei’s history of fighting, showing love and understanding early on will help ensure your Cocker-Pei isn’t anxious or aggressive.

The Cocker-Pei’s energy level is ideal for families with children. When the kids want to play outside, the Cocker-Pei is ready to go. They can be taught to play fetch or other games to keep them occupied while spending time with the kids. When playtime is finished, however, they are just as content to cuddle with their owners and spend the day unwinding from all the activities.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

The intelligence of the Cocker-Pei makes them great with other pets if socialized early. The socialization process shouldn’t be rushed; introducing your other pets to the Cocker-Pei gradually is ideal.

Keep in mind that both the Shar-Pei and the Cocker Spaniel have been used for hunting. If you see the Cocker-Pei has a strong prey drive, keeping them away from small animals such as hamsters may be necessary. This prey instinct may not be evident in every Cocker-Pei but should be monitored to ensure the safety of smaller animals in the home or neighborhood.

Things to Know When Owning a Cocker-Pei:

Owning a Cocker-Pei is a true commitment. They can be clingy and need plenty of daily exercise and attention from their pet parent. The Shar-Pei is a low-maintenance animal with a stubborn streak and a protective nature. The Cocker Spaniel, however, is a loving hunter who is fiercely loyal and needs to exercise. Your Cocker-Pei could retain the energy level of either parent or fall somewhere in the middle.

Food & Diet Requirements

The Cocker-Pei requires high-quality dog food. As a puppy, a high-protein formula will help build muscle and aid in their growth. Although the quantity of food depends on the dog’s age, health, and weight, most Cocker-Peis eat around two cups of quality food twice daily. Leftovers should not be left readily available, especially during the training process, but healthy, commercial treats are suitable. Maintaining a healthy weight will keep them healthier for longer.

Exercise

It’s difficult to predict how active the Cocker-Pei will be since the Cocker Spaniel is more energetic than the Shar-Pei. Understanding the origins of your Cocker-Pei will make it easier to understand their exercise requirements. If you see your animal leaning more toward the Shar-Pei side of the activity spectrum, ensure they get brief, daily walks to avoid weight issues and engage them in play sessions.

If your Cocker-Pei is more like the Cocker Spaniel, they’ll need longer walks and more intense play sessions. Playing games outside or agility training are ideal and can make your dog happier and healthier.

Training

Due to the Shar-Pei’s well-known stubborn streak, the Cocker-Pei needs assertive training. Showing your confidence early in training is essential to getting the results you expect. Keep in mind that being firm has nothing to do with the physical abuse of your animal. You should never scream at or hit your pup. Their loving, eager-to-please nature will make reward training beneficial if the proper steps are taken throughout the process.

Grooming ✂️

When bringing home a Cocker-Pei puppy, instilling good grooming habits early on will make them more accepting of the process. For good oral hygiene, brush your puppy’s teeth regularly. This process should continue throughout your pet’s life, along with regular checkups with the veterinarian.

The Cocker-Pei’s coat is relatively easy to care for. With routine brushings twice weekly, shedding is kept to a minimum. The critical aspect to remember, however, is to check their wrinkles. Dampness in the folds can cause infections. Keeping the wrinkly skin dry is essential for their health and comfort. The same can be said for their floppy ears; they must be checked and cleaned often to avoid infections or issues with ear mites.

Health and Conditions

To keep your Cocker-Pei healthy, you should be well-versed in the health issues both the Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel may experience. This will help when you speak to your veterinarian about the issues you should watch for and when a trip to the office is necessary.

Male vs Female

The slight differences between males and females shouldn’t affect your decision when choosing your puppy. When properly cared for, both sexes reach the same weights and sizes. Their easygoing attributes make both sexes loving and protective, so choose based upon which puppy pulls at your heartstrings the most.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Cocker-Pei

1. The Chinese Shar-Pei Was Close to Extinction.

The Cocker-Pei is a crossbreed of the Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel, but did you know these beautiful creatures only exist thanks to one person? Matgo Law is considered the man who saved the Shar-Pei when Southern China implemented a hefty dog tax, which made the breed nearly impossible to find. Matgo Law was a breeder in Hong Kong, and his efforts helped the Shar-Pei survive.

In the 1970s, the Shar-Pei found their way to America. An American breeder took up the mantle to help repopulate the breed. Now, Shar-Peis can easily be found in the United States. In 1991, the Shar-Pei was recognized by the AKC.

2. The Cocker Spaniel Is One of the World’s Most Famous Dog Breeds.

Most people have heard of the Cocker Spaniel and are aware of their beauty, hunting capabilities, and loyalty. But did you know the Cocker is famous?

The Cocker Spaniel has been featured in advertising campaigns and movies. The Coppertone label features a child having her bathing suit tugged at by a Cocker Spaniel.

The animated movie Lady and the Tramp also features a Cocker Spaniel. Lady herself, with all her beauty and elegance, is a Cocker who falls for the ever-so-charming Tramp. Lady’s color and coat are typical representations of the Cocker Spaniel breed and brought even more attention to them when it was released.

3. The Cocker-Pei’s Look Embraces Both the Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel.

Many people fall in love with Cocker-Peis due to their wrinkled faces and great demeanor. However, the body of the Cocker-Pei is smooth, like that of the Cocker Spaniel. These dogs are also known for their eyes. Dark or green eyes accompany the Cocker-Pei, making them unique. Add in the floppy ears they are famous for, and you can see just how the Cocker-Pei embraces their lineage.

Conclusion

The Cocker-Pei is an ideal pet for individuals and families. With proper training and early socialization, they can easily become the best friend of everyone in the household. With their need for attention and love of making you happy, make sure you have plenty of time to love and care for them. Your Cocker-Pei will be a wrinkly-faced companion for years to come.

We have lots more Shar Pei Mixes and Cocker Spaniel Mixes for you to look at!

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay