 Although the Shar-Pei has been identified as a basal breed that predates the emergence of the modern breeds in the 19th century, the American Kennel Club recognized it as their 134th breed only in 1992.Small, triangle ears, and a cylinder body shape give the Shar-Pei a unique look.For show standard, "the tail is thick and round at the base, tapering to a fine point" (AKC standard February 28, 1998).