Imperial and Teacup Shih Tzu

Overview

The term 'Imperial' Shih Tzu often sparks curiosity, as well as misconceptions, among dog lovers. This article aims to clarify the facts and myths surrounding the Imperial Shih Tzu, while providing insightful information on Shih Tzu sizes, imperial bloodlines, and more.

The Truth About Miniature, Teacup and Imperial Shih Tzu Dogs

The AKC, and other legitimate canine registries around the world, recognize only one Shih Tzu breed. The Shih Tzu's 'ideal' weigh is between 9 and 16 pounds (4.08 to 7.25 kilograms). There are no official varieties or offshoots of the Shih Tzu breed. This means that Imperial Shih Tzus, miniature Shih Tzus and Teacup Shih Tzus are not recognized as distinct types or size categories within the breed. Yet, still, the term Imperial Shih Tzu is used quite often, even by well-recognized breeders. Let's dive in further to see why and how this moniker is used.

When the Term Imperial is Used: Noun or Adjective

What are imperial Shih Tzu dogs? It really depends on who has dubbed the dog an 'imperial' and their reason for doing so.

It is sometimes used as an adjective to mean small. To clarify, let's remember that an 'ideal' show specimen Shih Tzu is between 9 and 16 lbs. (4.08 to 7.25 kg). Pet Shih Tzu dogs naturally fall outside of that range; anywhere between 7 and 18 pounds for adults is a typical weight for this breed. A Shih Tzu dog that falls at the low end of this range, or even under it in the 5 to 6 pound range, may be dubbed an 'imperial' meaning 'small' or 'miniature'.

It is also sometimes used to imply that a Shih Tzu has a 'royal' bloodline, more so than 'regular' Shih Tzu dogs, and this is misleading, to say the least.

And this is the reason: Tibetan dogs, including the Shih Tzu, are believed to be descendants of the Gobi Desert Kitchen Midden Dog, a breed dating back over 10,000 years. The evolutionary journey saw the Gobi Desert Kitchen Midden Dog transform into the Small Soft-Coated Drop-Eared Hunting Dog, and subsequently into the Kitchen Midden Dog.

While there are no written records to confirm this lineage, it is a widely held belief that the Kitchen Midden Dog played a pivotal role in the development of several breeds through selective breeding programs. These breeds include the Tibetan Spaniel, the Pekingese, the Japanese Chin, the Papillon, the Pug, the Lhasa Apso, and the Shih Tzu.

Consequently, all Shih Tzu dogs share the same foundational bloodlines. This fact dispels the common misconception of 'royal' bloodlines uniquely producing 'imperial' Shih Tzus. In reality, there is no distinction in lineage between 'imperial' and 'regular' Shih Tzus, as they all originate from the same ancestral breeds.

So, to summarize: An Imperial Shih Tzu is not an official offshoot or variation of the breed and the term is often used to describe a Shih Tzu that is smaller than the expected weight range or as a misleading term to imply the dog has strong royal bloodlines more so that other Shih Tzu dogs.

The Imperial Label: Responsible Use in Describing Shih Tzu Size and Lineage

Size: The allure of tiny dogs has captivated a significant portion of the dog-loving community worldwide. Within this segment, there's a persistent demand for miniaturized versions of already small breeds. The Shih Tzu, a toy breed, is no exception to this trend. For these enthusiasts, the term 'Imperial' is often employed to signify Shih Tzu dogs that are smaller than the breed's average size.

To cater to this preference, some breeders engage in selective breeding to produce Shih Tzu puppies that will fall on the lower end of the official weight spectrum (9 to 16 lbs.) as adults. This practice is widely accepted within the breeding community.

Extending this further, certain breeders focus on producing dogs slightly below the AKC standard, yet within a weight range (7 to 8 pounds or 3.17 to 3.62 kg) conducive to maintaining health. These Shih Tzu dogs, often labeled 'Imperials', may not align with AKC conformation standards but, when bred responsibly, can be just as robust as their standard-sized counterparts.

Moreover, even the most meticulous breeders who adhere strictly to AKC standards occasionally produce puppies that are unexpectedly smaller. Nature often has its own plans, and in these instances, breeders might refer to these smaller puppies as 'Imperials'.

Regular Shih Tzu looking at miniature Shih Tzu

Lineage: The Shih Tzu breed boasts a rich and storied history, tracing back over 10,000 years. In recognition of this illustrious past, some breeders and pet owners choose to use the term 'Imperial' as a nod to the breed's distinguished heritage. This use of 'Imperial' transcends mere physical characteristics, serving instead as a homage to the ancestral lineage and the cultural significance of the Shih Tzu.

It's a term that celebrates not just the size, but also the royal and noble roots of the breed, reflecting the esteem and reverence held for these dogs throughout history. Such usage of 'Imperial' enriches the understanding of the Shih Tzu's place in the canine world, elevating it beyond a simple breed descriptor to a title that honors its majestic past.

Unmasking the Misuse: How 'Imperial' Becomes a Deceptive Marketing Term with Shih Tzu Puppies

As we discussed so far, the word 'imperial' can be used innocently to mean 'small' or to honor the Shih Tzu breed's heritage. But, there are instances of the term being used in disingenuous ways:

In Regard to Size: If a breeder, or other, is offering a miniature or toy Shih Tzu that is purposefully bred to be under 7 pounds (3.18 kg) as an adult, this is dangerous. The Shih Tzu breed is a sturdy dog and is by no means one of the smallest in the toy breed group. An undersized puppy could have a wide range of health issues including hypoglycemia and calcium deficiency as a pup and higher risk of hip dysplasia, tracheal issues, liver issues and more as an adult. In addition, expected life span may be shorter.

Lineage: If the term is being used to imply the dog is more regal or royal than 'regular' Shih Tzu dogs, this is misleading and should be viewed as a marketing term to steer clear of.

In Summary: It is important to understand the difference between a breeder who uses the word 'Imperial' to simply mean 'small' or to honor the breed's special place in history and others who use the word to explain the dog is much smaller than is healthy or falsely labeled as more regal.

Buying an Imperial Shih Tzu Puppy

If you've fallen in love with the breed, want a Shih Tzu puppy, and are starting your search, please keep the aforementioned information in mind as you look around. It is usually fine if pups are dubbed imperials but are estimated to fall within the AKC weight range, plus or minus 2 pounds, as adults. And it is usually fine if they are called imperials, but just as a homage to the breed and not to manipulate puppy buyers to believe the pups are special (and therefore the price for the Shih Tzu is much more money).

If you are in the US and are looking for an ethical breeder, we maintain a small list of Personally Recommended Shih Tzu Breeders; be sure to have a look.

If You Already Have an Undersized Imperial Shih Tzu

If your Shih Tzu is an imperial, meaning much smaller than the average 7 to 18 lbs. (for pet Shih Tzu dogs), taking into account the more narrow subset of 9 to 16 lbs. (for those in the showring), particular attention should be given to health issues and care surrounding little dogs with smaller frames and lighter weight than expected.

Issues to look out for and to address with the veterinarian include: struggling to gain weight, hypoglycemia, nutrient deficiencies and fragile bones. As the dog ages, there may be an early need for joint supplements. And, as with all Shih Tzu, a harness should be worn (never a collar) to help prevent tracheal issues. Do not miss veterinary health screenings.

More than ever, consider the Shih Tzu to be an 'under-the-foot' dog, taking care in regard to interactions with children in the home and those outside of it. Care should also be taken to help prevent injuries that small dogs incur such as those from jumping down off furniture, falling down staircases, etc.

Do You Have Your Book?

If you have a Shih Tzu, you'll want AllShihTzu's GIANT Book of Shih Tzu Care; it's your guide from day one and throughout your sweetie's entire life.

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