What Makes an Imperial Shih Tzu So Valuable

There is a great significance of Shih Tzu in Chinese and Tibetan legends. Anthropology researchers suggest several theories while investigating the exact root of Shih Tzu. Manchu dynasty is believed to be the root of the Shih Tzu breed of modern types as suggested by one theory, while the other employs its emphasis on the Imperial Court of China via silk trade route. 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 emphasis is given to three factors - quality, health and temperament at the time of breeding. According to the specification defined by AKC, a typical Imperial Shih Tzu possesses a short back, straight legs and a baby doll face with small button nose on exquisite head. They have very cute and affectionate expressions. You can avail these puppies in a great variety of colors like chocolate, red, mahogany, liver, blue and combined colors. The major features that give the Shih Tzu such a highest degree are gorgeous coats, round eyes, fluffy little body and beautiful head. At the time of breeding, the breeder must take care while selecting the breeding partners as this exclusively determines the quality of the offspring.

Typically the temperament of an Imperial Shih Tzu is nice and sweet. They are basically cheerful, spunky and steady dogs. Royal affability, bold behavior and frequent arrogance set them apart from other type of breeds of the same family. Their behavior is very friendly with almost zero trouble. The Imperial Shih Tzu responds very nicely during patient training. Because of their alert nature, although they prefer to bark outside, they stay calm and quiet inside of 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.

The price of an Imperial Shih Tzu is higher than many other breeds. The final price is determined on the basis of a whole host of reasons including the breeding parents, gender, markings, color and size. Generally, the teacup Imperial Shih Tzu’s price starts out at $2500 and it is a very desirable six pounds or under when full grown. On the other hand, the price of a regular Imperial Shih Tzu starts out at $1000 and its size varies from six pounds to nine pounds at adulthood. For a standard Shih Tzu, over nine pounds full grown, the price may start at a mere $500.

Blessed with extensive knowledge and expertise, Rebecca Simpson is a responsible breeder who loves to raise puppies. Imperial, Teacup and Standard are the common Shih Tzu types. The former two breeds are always set in higher prices. This article will provide you all basic Shih Tzu information.