Rus-A-Pei

The Rus-A-Pei is a cross between the Jack Russell Terrier and the Chinese Shar Pei. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Rus-A-Pei. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, athletic dog bred specifically for fox hunting, with proportions designed to enable it to pursue quarry both above and below ground. The breed stands between 10 and 15 inches at the shoulder, with the American Kennel Club standard specifying 12 to 14 inches as ideal. Weight typically ranges from 13 to 17 pounds, creating a compact yet muscular frame that allows the dog to fit into fox dens while maintaining enough strength and endurance for a full day of hunting. The body is slightly longer than it is tall, with a flat skull of moderate width that gradually narrows toward the eyes. The Jack Russell Terrier displays three distinct coat types, all of which are weatherproof and functional. The smooth coat lies flat against the body and requires minimal grooming. The rough coat is longer and more textured, providing additional protection against brush and brambles. The broken coat represents an intermediate type, featuring a mixture of smooth and rough hair. All coat types display a predominantly white base color, typically covering at least 51 percent of the body, with markings in black, tan, or a combination of both colors. These markings most commonly appear on the head and at the base of the tail. The breed possesses distinctive physical features that support its hunting function. The ears are small and V-shaped, folding forward in a button style that protects the ear canal when the dog works underground. The dark, almond-shaped eyes convey an alert and intelligent expression. The chest must be compressible and small enough to allow the dog to follow prey into narrow underground spaces. The tail, traditionally docked to approximately four inches, serves as a useful handle for pulling the dog from burrows. The legs are longer than those of many other terrier breeds, enabling the Jack Russell to keep pace with horses and hounds during hunts. The breed typically enjoys a lifespan of 13 to 16 years.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The Jack Russell retains extremely strong hunting instincts that significantly impact daily life with this breed. Its prey drive compels it to chase small animals, and it cannot be trusted around cats, rabbits, or other small pets unless raised with them from puppyhood. Even dogs socialized with small animals may suddenly give chase when triggered by rapid movement. The breed is also notably vocal, barking to alert owners of perceived threats and sometimes simply from excitement or boredom. Jack Russells typically excel with active families who can provide one to two hours of vigorous exercise daily, but they may prove too intense for first-time dog owners or households with small children.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Eye conditions represent another area of concern for the breed. Primary lens luxation, where the lens detaches from its normal position within the eye, occurs at higher rates in Jack Russell Terriers than in the general dog population. This painful condition can lead to glaucoma and blindness if untreated. Genetic testing can identify carriers of this condition, allowing breeders to make informed decisions. Cataracts and other inherited eye problems also affect some individuals. Deafness, particularly in dogs with extensive white coloration, occurs occasionally. Regular dental care is important, as small breeds often experience dental disease at higher rates. Maintaining appropriate body weight helps prevent obesity-related complications and protects joint health throughout the dog's life.
Learn More About The Jack Russell Terrier

Chinese Shar Pei

Chinese Shar Pei

The Chinese Shar Pei is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive and immediately recognizable appearance characterized by abundant wrinkled skin, particularly around the head, neck, and shoulders. Adults typically stand 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 45 and 60 pounds, presenting a compact, square profile. The breed's name translates to sand skin, referring to the harsh, sandpaper-like texture of its coat. Puppies display wrinkles covering nearly their entire bodies, though adults retain prominent folds primarily on the head and withers, creating an expression that appears perpetually concerned or thoughtful. The Chinese Shar Pei exhibits two distinct coat types that differ significantly in texture and length. The horse coat is extremely short and bristly, measuring less than a quarter inch in length, with a texture that can feel prickly to the touch. The brush coat is slightly longer, reaching up to one inch at the withers, and feels somewhat softer while still maintaining the characteristic harsh quality. Both coat types come in solid colors or sable patterns, including black, blue, cream, fawn, red, and various dilute shades. A soft or wavy coat is considered a serious fault in the breed standard, as the harsh coat texture historically provided protection during the breed's working past. The head represents the breed's most distinctive feature, appearing disproportionately large for the body with a hippopotamus-like muzzle that is broad and padded. Small, sunken eyes are set deeply into the wrinkled facial skin, conveying a dignified and somewhat stern expression. The tiny, triangular ears lie flat against the head and contribute to the breed's unique appearance. Like the Chow Chow, the Chinese Shar Pei possesses a blue-black tongue, with this pigmentation extending to the gums and muzzle. The tail is thick and round at the base, tapering to a fine point and carried high in a curl over the back. The breed typically lives 8 to 12 years.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament The Chinese Shar Pei requires moderate exercise and mental stimulation to remain content. Daily walks of 30 to 60 minutes typically satisfy the breed's physical needs, though they are not demanding athletes who require extensive activities. Without adequate mental engagement, Shar Peis may become bored and develop unwanted behaviors. The breed generally does well with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs, but its serious nature means it rarely enjoys rough play. Same-sex aggression toward other dogs can occur, particularly in males, and the breed's strong prey drive may make it unsuitable for homes with small animals. Proper socialization from puppyhood significantly improves the Shar Pei's ability to coexist peacefully with other pets.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Entropion represents one of the breed's most prevalent health concerns, with some sources indicating that nearly every Shar Pei experiences this condition to some degree. Entropion occurs when the eyelids roll inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea and produce pain, irritation, and potential ulceration. Many affected dogs require surgical correction, sometimes multiple procedures, to preserve vision and comfort. Hip and elbow dysplasia affect this breed at moderate rates, causing joint pain and mobility issues. Hypothyroidism occurs frequently, with some estimates suggesting one in five Shar Peis may be affected. Other conditions to monitor include patellar luxation, ear infections due to the breed's small ear canals, and various cancers.
Learn More About The Chinese Shar Pei

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Rus-A-Pei may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Jack Russell Terrier and Chinese Shar Pei to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.