The American Kennel Association (AKC) recognizes pure breeds such as the Shih Tzu and allows them to compete if they meet breed standards. Pure breeds are defined as ” of or belonging to a recognized strain established by breeding individuals of unmixed heritage over many generations.” Shih Tzu purebred dogs have many characteristics that will be listed later in this article. It is important to note that all purebred dogs have a pedigree and a lineage that can be traced. Pure breeds are inbred to retain selective genetic traits of the breed.

Some Shih Tzu owners purposefully breed substandard Shih Tzu due to desire for a smaller version of the already “toy” dog. Miniature Shih Tzu, or Teacup Shih Tzu, do not meet the height and weight requirements of standard Shih Tzu. Though the American Kennel Club does not recognize Teacup Shih Tzu, they can compete through alternative organizations like the National Canine Association. Teacup Shih Tzu are also called Chinese Imperial Dogs.

The Shih Tzu is believed to have descended from cross breeding the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. The Shih Tzu dates back at least to the 17th century and possibly as much as 2000 years. These dogs have an illustrious history. Initially bred by Tibetan monks, Shih Tzu were referred to as “Lion Dogs” and were deemed holy.

Fur is straight to wavy in texture. Height must be between eight and eleven inches and weight must be between nine and sixteen pounds. The temperament must be happy, alert, energetic, and totally trusting. When competing, Shih Tzu crown hair must be tied on top of the head.

The Shih Tzu has an illustrious history and may be a much as 2,000 years old. This breed most likely originated in Tibet, China. The breed is the result of cross breeding the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. Shih Tzu means “lion” in Chinese, so Shih Tzu dogs are often referred to by the Chinese as “lion dogs.” Teacup Shih Tzu are called Chinese Imperial Dogs to refer back to the breed’s imperial history.

The Teacup Shih Tzu is referred to by many other names. Most often called the Chinese Imperial Dog (and registered as breed with the National Canine Association under this name), Teacup Shih Tzu are also called Toy or Toi Shih Tzu, Miniature Shih Tzu, Imperial Shih Tzu, and Pocket Puppies. Teacup Shih Tzu are smaller than standard Shih Tzu. They weigh only four to seven pounds as adults. Breeders use the smallest purebred Shih Tzu to create the tiny Teacups.

Like standard Shih Tzu, Teacup Shih Tzu dogs have long, silky fur in varying colors, dark, expressive eyes, and sturdy bodies. Teacups are usually bred to have shorter backs than the standard, to keep them from developing spinal disc problems. Teacup Shih Tzu may also have shorter snouts and a more doll-like face. They have the same happy, loving temperament as purebred standard Shih Tzu.

Teacup Shih Tzu are purebred just like standard Shih Tzu. They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club simply because they do not conform to the breed standard characteristics that are desirable in a Shih Tzu. Other organizations disagree and have registered the tiny Teacup Shih Tzu as the Chinese Imperial Dog.