Shar-Pei Fever: What Is It and How Is It Treated?

Fevers can make dogs feel crummy. 

Shar-Pei dogs are prone to a genetic condition called Shar-Pei fever, or familial Shar-Pei fever syndrome (FSF), that causes frequent episodes of unexplained fever. 

This condition goes by many names; you may also hear it called swollen hock syndrome and Shar-Pei autoinflammatory disease (SPAID). 

Let’s look at common symptoms of Shar-Pei fever, treatment, and when to call your vet. 

What Is Shar-Pei Fever?

Shar-Pei fever is an inherited disease seen in up to 25% of purebred Shar-Peis. The syndrome causes intermittent fevers that come and go. These fevers are often associated with widespread inflammation, especially in the hocks (ankles) and the face.

This inflammation leads to overproduction of a protein called amyloid.

Amyloid can be deposited in various organs, but it’s particularly problematic in the kidneys. Over time, amyloid accumulation interferes with the kidney’s ability to filter proteins and can lead to kidney failure.

Dogs affected by Shar-Pei fever can experience very high fevers that may lead to organ damage. Normal body temperature for a dog is around 101.5 F. A body temperature greater than 102 F is considered a fever.

If your dog has a temperature over 106 F, this is a medical emergency. Seek veterinary care as soon as possible to help prevent organ damage. 

Symptoms of Shar-Pei Fever

Common symptoms of Shar-Pei fever include: 

• Fever (temperature > 102 degrees) 

• Lethargy/listlessness 

• Decreased appetite 

• Swollen ankles (hocks) 

• Swollen face 

• Pain 

• Vomiting 

• Diarrhea 

Causes of Shar-Pei Fever

Shar-Pei fever is caused by the same genetic changes that give Shar-Pei dogs their classic skin folds.

A skin-associated molecule called hyaluronan is overproduced due to a mutation affecting its regulation.

Excess hyaluronan contributes to extra wrinkles and skin folds; the more copies of the risk gene a dog has, the more likely they are to have Shar-Pei fever.

Fever episodes are more likely to start in young Shar-Pei. They usually begin before 18 months of age but can occur at any age. 

How Veterinarians Diagnose Shar-Pei Fever

Fevers can be caused by many things. While a fever in a Shar-Pei raises suspicion for Shar-Pei fever, these dogs can also get fevers from infections like any other breed. 

After an exam, your veterinarian may recommend: 

• Blood work to screen for other issues that can cause fever. 

• Tick-borne disease testing, as these infections are common in dogs and often result in fevers.   

• Urinalysis to check for protein in the urine. 

• Imaging (such as X-rays and ultrasound) to look for structural or size changes in organs that can occur with amyloid accumulation. 

• Genetic testing to assess the likelihood that your Shar-Pei has Shar-Pei fever.  

Keep a thermometer at home (like the Vet-Temp Rapid Flexible Digital Dog & Cat Thermometer) so you can check and track your dog’s temperature. 

Let your vet know how often fevers occur, how high they get, and how long they last. Also report if your pup isn’t eating, is vomiting, or is drinking or urinating excessively. 

Treatment of Shar-Pei Fever

Shar-Pei fever in dogs is managed rather than cured. Treatment varies with severity. 

During fever episodes, care is usually aimed at reducing the fever and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as carprofen are often used. 

If the fever is high or your pup is very sick, your veterinarian may recommend fluid therapy to help lower body temperature and support their kidneys. 

For long-term management, many affected dogs are treated with a medication called colchicine, which helps reduce the amount of amyloid deposited in the kidneys and liver during fever episodes. 

Because amyloid accumulation can lead to kidney failure over time, colchicine is important to help protect the kidneys and may reduce the frequency of episodes in some patients. 

If colchicine is not effective or tolerated, steroids (such as prednisone) may be prescribed. 

While oral steroids have potential side effects, the benefits often outweigh the risks when it comes to controlling severe or frequent fever episodes and preventing the damage they can cause. 

Recovery and Management of Shar-Pei Fever

If your dog has been diagnosed with Shar-Pei fever, keep a thermometer at home (like the Vet-Temp Rapid Digital Dog & Cat Thermometer); a rectal temperature is the most reliable. 

Fevers usually last 12 to 36 hours. Although a fever can resolve on its own, treatment is still recommended to reduce overall inflammation and limit damage to internal organs.

Several supplements have been shown to help reduce amyloid production and support overall health.

Good choices for your pup may include:

• Antioxidants containing vitamin C, like VetClassics Antioxidants with Coenzyme Q-10 Chewable Tablets Dog Supplement 

• Immune-health supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids and lecithin, such as Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Multi Care Soft Chew Supplement for Dogs 

• Joint-health supplements that contain glucosamine to support the hyaluronan in your dog’s cells, like the Nutramax Dasuquin Hip & Joint Soft Chews Joint Supplement 

Always discuss specific products and dosing with your veterinarian. 

If your dog has already developed chronic kidney disease, treatment focuses on slowing its progression. 

Veterinary kidney diets such as Hill’s k/d, Royal Canin Renal Support, and Purina NF help reduce kidney workload. 

Periodic fluid therapy may also be helpful; while fluids are often administered at the veterinary clinic, many pet parents can learn to give subcutaneous fluids (under the skin) at home under veterinary guidance. 

Prevention of Shar-Pei Fever

Because Shar-Pei fever is inherited, prevention centers on not breeding affected dogs.

The Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine offers a genetic test to determine whether a Shar-Pei is a non-carrier, single carrier, or double carrier.

This test requires paperwork completed by both you and your veterinarian.