Miniature Shar Pei  The Miniature Shar Pei or Mini Pei is a breed of dog with slightly smaller proportions than the larger Shar Pei. They have been bred to be smaller in size through a recessive gene carried in their DNA. The reduced size of this breed creates a versatile dog that is unique yet small, making for a good family companion. The Miniature Shar Pei is not classified by any Kennel Club as a separate breed. The Miniature Shar Pei has been bred from a recessive gene of the Shar Pei, i.e., the runt of the litter bred from the run of the litter, to create a smaller specimen. The appearance and shape of the breed can be described as broad and square in proportion to height and body length. Their physical attributes are much the same as their larger brethren, having a large head, wide padded muzzle, highly set ears, blue-black tongue, with wrinkled head, neck and shoulders. The height of a Miniature Shar Pei does not exceed 17 inches high at the withers; over 17 inches is a disqualification and does not meet the breed standard. In terms of weight, they range from 25 to 45 lbs. The coat can be classified as one of three types, "Horse Coat" being not more than one-quarter inch in length with a harsh feel, "Brush Coat" less than one inch in length with a velvety feel, or "Bear Coat" being longer than one inch in length with a wavy smooth feel.Shedding in this breed is minimal and occurs through a process called "blowing coat". This usually happens in the spring and fall over a short period of a few days. Coloring can be any variety of White (very rare), Fawn, Cream, Chocolate, Apricot, Red, Lilac, Blue, or Black in Solid, Sable or Dilute variations; Dilute being a dog whose nose, nails, pads, anus and coat do not contain any black pigment. The Miniature Shar Pei is affectionate, adaptable, playful, confident, calm, independent, regal, and alert. They are inherently clean and quiet. Some can be a bit aloof and though they are wise, obedience training requires a confident, consistent authority figure to prevent them from becoming overly dominant. This breed makes a delightful companion, but is very independent with a temperament that will depend highly on how the owner treats the dog. It is a dog that bonds well with its family and is very devoted.