The breed originates from southern China. The English name 'Shar-Pei' derives from the British spelling of the older Cantonese shā pèih (沙皮, Mandarin: shā pí), which translates to 'sandy skin' and refers to the texture of the breed's short, rough coat. A Shar-Pei can also have what is called a 'dilute' coloration, meaning that the nose and nails of the dog are the same color as the coat (e.g. The nose may be black or brick (pink with black), and the face may be with or without a black mask. A Shar-Pei can also have what is called a 'dilute' coloration, meaning that the nose and nails of the dog are the same color as the coat (e.g. a chocolate coat with a chocolate nose and nails); these include cream dilute, apricot dilute, and chocolate dilute.