Imperial Shih Tzu: Not a Recognized Breed
Imperial Shih Tzus, also called Teacup, Toy, or Miniature Shih Tzus, are tiny dogs. However, these dogs are not an official breed. They don’t meet the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the American Shih Tzu Club (ASTC) standards. The ideal weight for a healthy Shih Tzu is 9-16 pounds, while Imperial Shih Tzus weigh under 5 pounds, which poses significant health risks.
Health Risks of Tiny Size
Imperial Shih Tzus’ small size means their internal organs are also smaller, leading to severe health issues. These dogs are sensitive to temperature and have fragile bones, making them vulnerable to injury. If you have children or larger dogs, it’s important to monitor interactions to prevent accidental harm. For those considering an Imperial Shih Tzu, this is a serious factor to consider.
Here’s a video of an Imperial Shih Tzu:
The Myth of the Imperial Shih Tzu
Some breeders claim these small Shih Tzus descend from dogs owned by Chinese emperors, but this is likely a marketing tactic. The demand for smaller dogs, often fueled by celebrities, has driven breeders to produce unnaturally tiny dogs. This can lead to higher prices, but these dogs often require more care due to their health issues. The Imperial Shih Tzu is not a separate breed but rather a smaller variation bred for profit.
Understanding Weight and Growth
The growth of Shih Tzus can vary, but most reach adult size between 9 to 12 months. Smaller Shih Tzus, like the Imperial variety, may continue to grow slightly longer. To estimate a puppy’s adult weight, consider the weight of the parents. Smaller Shih Tzus are often the result of intentional breeding, which can lead to health complications. The standard breed is recommended to avoid these risks.
Although this is the standard size chart for “so called” Imperial Shih Tzu dogs, we suggest that you take a look at the parents of your Shih Tzu puppy to really get the idea on how big they can get. As we mentioned, we don’t recommend intentionally buying a dog listed as an Imperial or a teacup Shih Tzu because of the health risks. But some puppies are by their genetics just smaller. The DNA of these parents are passed onto the puppies from their ancestors so most likely, they have maintained the size bracket over the years and will only become smaller if intentionally bred with smaller Shih Tzus.
Weight and Age
The ideal time frame for a Shih Tzu dog to reach its adult weight and height is between 9 to 12 months but some may still gain weight depending on their diet. The growth rate might also still vary in each period because some Shih Tzu dogs have faster weight gain in the first few months and then slows down when they reach 8 months or so. It’s a lot more common for this slowdown period to become apparent.
Here is another method that you can use to have an overview of your Shih Tzu’s adult weight:
First, you need to obtain the age of your puppy and their current weight. After determining the age, find the correct equation and plug in the weight into it.
For Eight Weeks Old Shih Tzu: Weight x 3 + (2 or 3 pounds)
For Twelve Weeks Old Shih Tzu: Weight x 2 + 1 pound
For Sixteen Weeks Old Shih Tzu: Weight x 2
Imperial Shih Tzu – Just A Marketing Term?
The term “Imperial Shih Tzu” is often used by breeders to market smaller, more expensive dogs. This label creates the illusion of rarity and exclusivity, leading to higher prices. However, these dogs are not a separate breed but simply undersized Shih Tzus. The focus on producing smaller dogs can result in significant health issues, such as hypoglycemia, respiratory problems, and fragile bones.
This trend is fueled by the popularity of “teacup” breeds, often glamorized by celebrities. Potential buyers are drawn to the idea of a tiny, portable pet without understanding the potential health risks and the ethical concerns of breeding such small dogs. These dogs may require special care, frequent vet visits, and higher medical costs.
Ultimately, the marketing of Imperial Shih Tzus prioritizes profit over the well-being of the dogs. Prospective owners should consider standard-sized Shih Tzus from reputable breeders or shelters, ensuring that their pet is healthy and bred responsibly. This choice promotes better breeding practices and the long-term health of the breed.
Imperial Shih Tzu – Health Issues
Breeding two Shih Tzus under 5 pounds often results in puppies with significant health challenges. Due to their small size, Imperial Shih Tzus are prone to conditions like hypoglycemia, spinal disc disease, and slipped stifles. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can be life-threatening, requiring frequent, balanced meals to manage. Their small, compact bodies are also more susceptible to spinal disc disease, which can cause pain and mobility issues. Slipped stifles, where the kneecap dislocates, is another common issue, often requiring surgery.
Despite their size, Imperial Shih Tzus have a big appetite, making them prone to weight gain, which can worsen existing health problems. It’s crucial to monitor their diet closely, ensuring they receive balanced nutrition without excessive calories. Foods like Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini are ideal, supporting their health while maintaining a healthy weight.
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Owning an Imperial Shih Tzu requires a commitment to their care, including regular vet check-ups, a well-managed diet, and measures to protect their fragile bodies.
Shih Tzu x Chihuahua: A Tiny Mix with Big Personality
The Imperial Shih Tzu x Chihuahua, often referred to as a “Shichi,” is a crossbreed that combines the tiny size of the Imperial Shih Tzu with the spirited nature of the Chihuahua. This hybrid breed is gaining popularity among dog lovers who appreciate small dogs with big personalities. However, it’s important to understand the characteristics, care requirements, and potential health issues associated with this mix.
Imperial Shih Tzu – Characteristics
Imperial Shih Tzu dogs are ideal for indoor and apartment living because of their size but it is still advisable to choose a Shih Tzu breed standard and not buy any dogs advertised as the fake Imperial Shih Tzu breed. Despite their very tiny size, all Shih Tzus are known for being loyal, playful, sturdy, affectionate, happy, loving, outgoing, and energetic.
Additionally, they are also considered very good lap dogs because of their trusting and content nature. Any Tzu can sit on your lap for as long as they are allowed to do so. They have a very big personality in such a small body this makes for an attractive mix.
Imperial Shih Tzu – Life Expectancy
Due to their health issues, Imperial Shih Tzus typically have a shorter life expectancy, averaging 8 to 10 years. In contrast, standard Shih Tzus can live up to 14 years or more. Proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet, can help extend their lives. Using products like PetHonesty Multivitamins can support their overall health.
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Imperial Shih Tzu – Responsibility is Important
Intentionally breeding fragile, small dogs is a very irresponsible act for a breeder because it puts the dogs in great danger and also makes the public believe that it’s okay to do such things. But we should not put all the blame on them. It’s also the society’s demands that pressures these folks to reduce the sizes of the dogs over the years.
When you already own an Imperial Shih Tzu dog or want to own one, keep it in mind that responsibility is very important when raising these types of dogs. You need to devote more time, money, effort, and affection to them than other normal dogs. If you can’t handle the pressure of raising one, please don’t consider homing one, it wont be fair on your or the dog.
Imperial Shih Tzu – Just Like Other Dogs
Although they have health issues and have shorter than average life expectancy, Imperial Shih Tzu dogs are still like other dogs who expect affection from their owners. They too are very active and playful despite their small size. Like other dogs are to be treated, pour them with love, gentleness, and kindness and you will receive thrice as much as you have given them. At the end of the day, we love Shih Tzus and this is a tiny one with a great big heart!
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