Best Dog Food for Shar Peis: Top 10 Reviews & Guide 2025

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

Finding the best dog food for Shar Peis isn’t just about picking any premium brand off the shelf.

Your wrinkled companion needs specialized nutrition that addresses their unique skin sensitivities and food allergies.

Look for hydrolyzed protein formulas or limited-ingredient diets featuring novel proteins like venison or duck.

These breeds often struggle with chicken and beef sensitivities, so you’ll want to avoid common allergens.

Quality options include Royal Canin’s hydrolyzed protein formula and grain-free varieties from trusted brands.

The key is finding foods with omega fatty acids for skin health and easily digestible ingredients that won’t trigger flare-ups.

Your Shar Pei’s dietary needs change substantially as they age, and certain ingredients can make the difference between a itchy, uncomfortable pup and a thriving family member.

Certain ingredients can have a significant impact on their health, making it crucial to choose the right food for their specific needs.

Best Dog Food for Shar Peis: Top 10 Options

Choosing the right food for your Shar Pei can feel overwhelming, but the breed’s unique needs make certain options stand out from the pack.

We’ve researched and reviewed the top 10 dog foods that address common Shar Pei concerns like skin sensitivities, food allergies, and their tendency toward weight gain.

1. Instinct Raw Beef Dog Food

View On Chewy
With its minimally processed approach, Instinct Raw Beef Dog Food delivers high-quality nutrition that’s perfect for your Shar-Pei’s sensitive system.

Raw nutrition meets sensitive stomachs—finally, dog food that actually works for picky Shar-Peis.

This frozen raw meal combines premium beef quality with essential nutrients while avoiding common allergens that trigger shar pei allergies.

Key benefits for your Shar-Pei include:

• Raw feeding advantages – Cold-pressed preservation maintains nutritional integrity
• Grain-free formula – Eliminates wheat, corn, and soy that cause digestive issues
• High-quality protein – Supports lean muscle development and energy levels
• Instinct ingredients – No fillers or artificial additives that irritate sensitive stomachs
• Perfect kibble size – Easy chewing for dogs with smaller mouths

Many owners report improved coat condition and increased mealtime enthusiasm after switching to this best food shar pei option.

The shar pei nutrition profile supports healthy digestion while addressing common breed sensitivities.

Though cost analysis shows it’s pricier than kibble, the concentrated nutrition means you’ll feed smaller portions.

Your Shar-Pei’s improved health and liveliness make this premium shar pei diet worth the investment for discerning pet parents.

2. Royal Canin HP Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food

View On Chewy
Facing food sensitivities with your Shar Pei, Royal Canin’s Hydrolyzed Protein formula breaks down proteins into tiny, digestible pieces that won’t trigger allergic reactions.

This hypoallergenic dog food specifically targets shar pei allergies through hydrolyzed protein technology, making it easier for sensitive stomachs to process.

The formula includes EPA and DHA fatty acids for skin health while addressing palatability issues that often plague dogs with food sensitivities.

Ingredient quality remains high despite the specialized processing, ensuring your pup gets complete nutrition without the inflammatory response.

3. Jinx Beef Brown Rice Sweet Potato Dog Food

View On Chewy
Starting with real beef as its foundation, Jinx Beef Brown Rice Sweet Potato dog food offers solid Protein Source quality for your Shar Pei’s muscle maintenance needs.

This dog food brand eliminates common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, reducing Allergy Potential for sensitive pups prone to dog skin problems.

The Ingredient Analysis reveals biotin and fish oil supporting skin health—crucial for Shar Pei breeds with wrinkle-related concerns.

Notably, many top brands meet AAFCO standards, ensuring nutritional adequacy.

However, Digestibility Concerns may arise since some dogs struggle with brown rice.

Palatability Factors generally favor this formula, though individual preferences vary among dog food brands.

4. Blue Buffalo Dog Food

View On Chewy
Blue Buffalo delivers premium nutrition with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, paired with wholesome grains like brown rice and oatmeal.

You’ll find garden vegetables, fruits, and flaxseed providing omega fatty acids for your Shar Pei’s skin health.

The signature LifeSource Bits contain antioxidants, glucosamine, and essential vitamins supporting joint mobility and immune function.

While some dogs experience brief digestive adjustment during switch, most owners report improved energy levels and coat quality.

This natural formula excludes artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors—making it ideal for Shar Peis with food sensitivities, and it supports joint mobility and immune function with essential vitamins.

Best For: Owners of adult dogs, especially breeds like Shar Peis with sensitive skin, joint needs, or food allergies, seeking a natural formula with real meat, wholesome grains, and no artificial additives.

5. Hills Science Diet Dog Food

Supporting your Shar-Pei’s digestive health becomes effortless with Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin formula.

This veterinarian-recommended food features real chicken as the first ingredient, delivering high-quality protein your pup needs.

The ActivBiome+ prebiotic blend targets healthy gut bacteria, while beet pulp provides gentle fiber that’s easy on sensitive stomachs.

You’ll notice improvements in your dog’s coat shine thanks to omega-6 fatty acids (4.3%) and vitamin E.

The formula includes natural ingredients without artificial colors or preservatives, making it ideal for Shar-Peis prone to allergies.

Many owners report reduced skin flare-ups and better digestion within weeks of switching.

The gradual switch guide helps prevent stomach upset during food changes.

While some dogs may need flavor enhancers like plain boiled chicken, most Shar-Peis find this kibble palatable.

At around 23.9% protein content, it maintains muscle health without overwhelming sensitive digestive systems.

Best For: Adult Shar-Peis and other dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin, needing high-quality, easy-to-digest nutrition.

6. Orijen Regional Red Dog Food

View On Chewy
Orijen Regional Red delivers premium nutrition with 85% fresh and raw animal ingredients, making it an excellent choice for your Shar Pei.

This protein-rich formula features beef, wild boar, lamb, and pork as primary protein sources, providing red meat benefits that support muscle development and energy.

The grain-free recipe addresses common dog allergies while including prebiotic fiber for digestive health.

Though cost analysis shows Orijen ranks higher in price among dog food brands, many owners report improved coat shine and energy levels in their pets after switching to this nutrient-dense option.

7. Wellness CORE Large Breed Dog Food

View On Chewy
Wellness CORE Large Breed Formula delivers premium nutrition specifically designed for your Shar Pei’s unique needs.

This grain-free dog food combines high-quality protein sources with targeted joint support ingredients.

• High protein content supports lean muscle development
• Glucosamine and chondroitin promote healthy joints
• Grain-free formula reduces risk of dog allergies
• Omega fatty acids enhance skin and coat health
• Digestive health support through probiotics and prebiotics

The ingredient analysis reveals quality animal proteins as primary components, making it excellent for Shar Peis prone to food sensitivities.

Many owners report improved energy levels and shinier coats within weeks of switching to this Wellness CORE formula.

8. ACANA Puppy Dry Food

View On Chewy
When your Shar Pei puppy’s growth demands premium nutrition, ACANA Puppy Dry Food delivers exceptional puppy development support through its 65% animal ingredient formula.

This grain-free dog food combines deboned chicken and turkey as primary protein sources, guaranteeing your puppy receives the high-quality nutrition essential for healthy growth.

The calcium levels are carefully balanced to support strong bone development, while EPA and DHA fatty acids promote brain function and skin health.

You’ll find the ingredient analysis impressive, featuring whole fruits and vegetables like pumpkin and blueberries that boost immune system strength.

The freeze-dried coating enhances palatability, making mealtime enjoyable for even picky Shar Pei puppies.

Following the feeding guide guarantees your dog puppy receives appropriate portions for ideal growth without overfeeding risks, ensuring a healthy growth and development.

9. Merrick Small Breed Dog Food

View On Chewy
Merrick delivers solid nutrition for your Shar Pei with real deboned chicken leading their small breed formula.

This kibble size works well for Shar Peis, though some owners notice increased stool frequency during switches.

• Protein Source: Real deboned chicken provides high-quality protein without common allergens like beef
• Allergy Concerns: Potato and pea-free formula reduces food sensitivities that trigger Shar Pei skin issues
• Merrick Ingredients: Brown rice and quinoa offer gentle carbs while omega fatty acids support breed-specific health needs

10. Royal Canin Medium Skin Care Dog Food

View On Chewy
Royal Canin’s skin-focused formula tackles your Shar Pei’s biggest challenge head-on, delivering targeted omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, including EPA, DHA, and GLA, to combat your dog’s notorious skin problems.

The real chicken base provides quality protein while prebiotics support digestion—crucial since Shar Peis often struggle with sensitive stomachs.

Royal Canin benefits extend beyond skin health, offering glucosamine for joint support and essential vitamins for bone strength, making it a comprehensive solution for your dog’s overall health.

While pricier than generic options, this ingredient analysis reveals why it’s worth the investment, as your wrinkled companion deserves specialized nutrition that addresses their unique dermatological needs effectively, providing a clear justification for choosing Royal Canin over other options.

Why You Should Trust Us

Our team brings solid Expert Credentials in canine nutrition and extensive Breed Experience with Shar Peis.

We partner with veterinarian specialists who understand breed-specific health challenges like skin allergies and digestive sensitivities.

Our Research Process involves testing dog food formulas against Shar Pei nutritional needs, not just marketing claims.

We maintain Review Integrity by evaluating ingredients independently, without manufacturer influence, to provide Unbiased Advice based on what actually works for these wrinkly companions, not what pays the bills.

Selecting the right bowl can also improve their well-being, as elevated bowls aid digestion.

Choosing The Best Food for Your Shar Pei

Feeding your Shar Pei the right food isn’t just about filling their bowl—it’s about managing their unique health needs and stubborn eating habits.

You’ll need to take into account their age, activity level, and tendency toward allergies when selecting the perfect diet.

High-Calorie Puppy Food

Your growing Shar Pei puppy needs nutrient-dense puppy food with at least 400 calories per cup to fuel rapid development.

These high-energy formulas should contain 30-38% protein and 15-22% fat to support proper growth requirements and muscle development.

Calorie density matters because underfed puppies can’t reach their full potential.

Monitor your pup’s body condition regularly and adjust portions as needed for ideal Shar Pei health.

Addressing Shar Pei Fever with antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation.

Balanced Adult Diets

Once your Shar Pei reaches adulthood, they’ll need a carefully balanced adult dog food that supports their unique breed-specific health needs.

You’re looking for moderate protein levels (around 20-25%) from named meat sources, balanced fat content for skin health, and digestible carbohydrates that won’t trigger sensitivities.

Quality matters more than quantity here. Your dog’s wrinkled skin and potential allergies mean you can’t just grab any bag off the shelf. Think of it as building a foundation – every ingredient should serve a purpose.

It’s also important to keep in mind filler-free diets to avoid potential allergies and sensitivities common in Shar Peis. Remember, portion control prevents obesity – a common issue that worsens their dog diet challenges. Your adult Shar Pei deserves nutrition that keeps them comfortable and healthy.

Senior Food Considerations

When your Shar Pei hits the golden years around seven or eight, their body shifts gears like an old car slowing down.

Senior dog food becomes essential for managing weight as their metabolism naturally decreases. Look for formulas with calorie reduction and increased fiber to prevent pudgy bellies.

Quality protein intake remains essential for maintaining muscle, while joint support ingredients like glucosamine help creaky bones. Don’t forget dental health considerations and cognitive function support through antioxidants.

Selecting the right senior Shar Pei food is imperative.

Shar-Pei-Specific Dog Food Qualities to Look For

Finding the right dog food for your Shar Pei isn’t just about picking any bag off the shelf—it’s about understanding their unique needs.

These wrinkled companions require specific nutritional considerations that differ from other breeds.

Protein Sources should top your priority list.

Look for named meats like chicken, turkey, or fish as the first ingredient.

Novel proteins such as duck or venison work well for Shar Peis with food sensitivities.

Avoid generic meat by-products that lack nutritional value.

Fat Content matters substantially for skin support.

Foods containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help manage the skin problems common in this breed.

Fish oil and flaxseed oil are excellent sources that support healthy skin barrier function.

Allergy Control becomes critical since Shar Peis frequently develop sensitivities to beef, chicken, wheat, and corn.

Limited-ingredient diets reduce exposure to potential triggers.

Grain-free formulations often help dogs with recurring allergic reactions.

Joint Health supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support their predisposition to hip dysplasia.

These ingredients help maintain mobility as your Shar Pei ages, while proper weight management prevents additional joint stress.

How to Switch Shar-Pei Dog Food

Switching your Shar Pei’s dog food requires patience and careful planning to avoid digestive upset. A gradual switch over 7-10 days helps prevent stomach issues and food rejection that can trigger food sensitivities in these wrinkle-faced companions.

Allergy Monitoring becomes vital during dietary changes since Shar Peis are prone to food allergies. Watch for itchy skin, ear infections, or changes in stool consistency – these red flags signal your pup isn’t tolerating the new food well.

Portion Control matters throughout the dog food switch process. Start with 75% old food mixed with 25% new food for the first few days, then gradually flip the ratio. This methodical approach respects your Shar Pei’s sensitive digestive system. For sensitive pups, consider exploring hypoallergenic puppy food options to minimize allergic reactions.

Remember, some Shar Peis need longer adjustment periods, so don’t rush the process.

The Facts You Should Know About Feeding Chinese Shar-Peis

After choosing the right food, you need real facts about feeding your Shar Pei. These dogs aren’t your average pup—their Breed-Specific Needs make nutrition a whole different ballgame.

Your Shar Pei’s unique physiology affects everything from Allergy Management to preventing SharPei Fever. Many owners don’t realize that dog food choices directly impact their dog’s breedspecific health conditions.

Your dog’s diet isn’t just fuel—it’s medicine for breed-specific health battles.

Life Stage	Key Focus
Puppy	High-calorie, dense nutrition for growth
Adult	Balanced protein, moderate calories
Senior	Joint support, lower calories
All Ages	Hydration Importance daily

Skin problems plague this breed, making Skin & Coat nutrition critical. Omega fatty acids aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re lifesavers for wrinkled skin that traps moisture and bacteria.

Supplement Benefits include glucosamine for joints and probiotics for digestion. Your Shar Pei thrives on consistency, so stick with quality ingredients like whole meats and avoid common allergens. Remember, what works for other breeds might trigger reactions in yours.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)