When you’re able to identify a dog’s breed almost instantly (which we’re pretty sure everyone did with this image),  it’s a vivid illustration of  “type,” a word we use a lot around here.  In its simplest terms, “type” is what makes a Shar-Pei look like a Shar-Pei and not a Manchester Terrier.  “Amp” up the word, and “type” refers to the qualities that shriek “Shar-Pei,” and then the dog is said to be “typey.” Breed type is usually outlined in a breed’s written standard, but some sources (like Wikipedia) make what we think is a mistake by stating that breed type is the basis of judging in conformation dog shows. It’s not,  but it is one component of evaluating a dog. That said,  it always makes for a good discussion among dog people to ask what they feel is more important: Type, movement, or something else.  What say you?

Felt Shar-Pei  found on Pinterest and photographed by nosonosoko, but we’re unable to determine if Nosonosoko also made them. We’ve like to credit the craftsman and share their link.