The origin of Shih Tzu emerges to be interwoven in the mystery of the prodigies of China and Tibet. There are several theories propounded by different anthropologists. One theory suggests that the Manchu dynasty was the origination of the modern Shih Tzu. As hypothesized by different scholars, Tibetan sleeve dogs are the ancestors of Imperial Shih Tzu. American Kennel Club (AKC) propounds the standard breed of Shih Tzu, while most common breeders use the terms ‘Imperial size’ or ‘Teacup size’.
The Chinese Empresses Dowager in the Imperial Palace of China advocated the breeding of the Shih Tzu. Unfortunately, there was no room for bigger-sized Shih Tzu. The bigger-sized Shih Tzu dogs were either marketed or killed. However, the smaller ones were well respected and well maintained by the breeders. When diplomats arrived, a tiny-sized Shih Tzu was given to them, representing an honor from the Empresses.
The tiny Imperial Shih Tzu is raised for quality, health, and temperament. As defined by AKC, Imperial Shih Tzu features a short back, straight legs and a baby doll face with a tiny button nose on an elegant head along with a cute and affectionate expression. The puppies may be available in different colors like chocolate, red, mahogany, liver, blue, and other colors. Typically, the puppies may come in gorgeous coats, round eyes, soft little bodies, and elegant heads. At the time of breeding, special care needs to be taken while selecting mating partners in order to properly breed the best personality, health, and temperament in the offspring.
Most commonly, the temperament of Imperial Shih Tzu is defined as nice and sweet. The major temperamental characteristics of this breed are jovial, spunky, and enduring. They are marked by their royal affability, daring attitude, and occasional aggressiveness. Quite commonly, they are so tender in temperate that it makes them appear very friendly without any potential complexities. During patient training, their response is quite remarkable. The Shih Tzu is an alert type of dog that prefers to bark outside but is commonly found calm and quiet within the house.
There is a huge market for the Imperial Shih Tzu. But many individuals and families have a preference for the Imperial Shih Tzu because of its small size. These types of dogs are easy to carry. Many tiny Imperial Shih Tzu owners take their dogs almost everywhere. Owners tend to treat these elite little dogs like treasures or extraordinary beautiful jewels. They are so small that they may require hand feeding and they need daily additional nutritional supplements also.
Quite naturally you cannot purchase a Shih Tzu for the price of most other breeds. The price is settled depending on various factors like breeding pair, gender, color, markings, and size. If you are ready to pay $2500, you might be able to buy a beautiful teacup Imperial Shih Tzu that tip the scales at a whopping full-grown size of six pounds or less.
Its full-grown size is limited to six pounds or less. On the other hand, the full-grown size of a regular Imperial Shih Tzu varies between six and nine pounds and it is available at the price of $1000. For the full-grown size of a regular Shih Tzu of nine pounds or more, the price starts at around $500.
Do you have or are you considering getting an Imperial Shih Tzu dog? If so please tell us about in in the comments section below. How well behaved is your dog? Was he/she easy to train? What would you suggest are the best foods for your pet. By sharing this with other Shih Tzu owners they can greatly benefit from your experience and knowledge!
See Also: Allergies that can affect your Shih Tzu
