"Imperial Shih Tzu" and "teacup Shih Tzu" are popular searches, and it's easy to see why. Tiny puppies are adorable, and the names sound special. But if you're shopping for a Shih Tzu, it helps to know what those words mean and what they don't. Here's an honest, kind explanation.
Are Imperial and Teacup Shih Tzus a Real Breed?
No. There is one Shih Tzu breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says plainly that there is no such thing as an AKC-recognized "imperial" or "teacup" Shih Tzu. The AKC explains that these terms are sometimes used to describe undersized Shih Tzu that don't conform to the breed standard.
You'll also see words like "tiny teacup," "miniature" or "tiny toy." The American Shih Tzu Club, the AKC parent club for the breed, says "imperial" and "tiny teacup" are used interchangeably for undersized Shih Tzu, and that they are not recognized varieties.
What the Shih Tzu Breed Standard Says About Size
A breed standard is the written description of the ideal dog of a breed. The Shih Tzu standard, approved by the AKC and the American Shih Tzu Club, calls for:
- Weight: ideally 9 to 16 pounds at maturity
- Height: ideally 9 to 10½ inches at the shoulder
- Build: "sturdy," "compact, solid, carrying good weight and substance"
The AKC describes the Shih Tzu as a "big dog in a small package" that is deceptively heavy for its size because of its heavy bones. In other words, the breed is meant to be small, but not fragile.
Is There an "Imperial Gene"?
The American Shih Tzu Club says there is no proof that an "imperial gene" exists. According to the club, very small Shih Tzu usually come from breeding the smallest dogs from different litters, generation after generation. The club notes this can produce abnormally small dogs and puppies that may have health problems.
That said, nature doesn't always follow the standard. The AKC notes that any breeder may occasionally have an undersized puppy, and both the AKC and the club say such a puppy should be sold as a pet, not used for breeding.
Health Concerns With Very Small Dogs
A smaller-than-standard dog isn't automatically unhealthy. But veterinarians and breed experts do point to a few concerns worth knowing about.
Low blood sugar in tiny puppies
VCA Animal Hospitals notes that very small Shih Tzu puppies are prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be serious. VCA recommends feeding Shih Tzu puppies often. Ask your vet about a feeding plan, especially for a small puppy.
Breeding and whelping
The AKC notes that undersized Shih Tzu may not be able to whelp (give birth) normally. That's one reason responsible breeders don't breed very small dogs on purpose.
Fragility around the house
All Shih Tzu are small, and VCA cautions that children must be supervised because they could easily hurt such a small dog. A dog well under the standard is even more vulnerable to falls, being stepped on, or being dropped.
The breed's usual health basics still apply
Shih Tzu are a brachycephalic (short-faced) breed. VCA explains that short-faced dogs can have breathing trouble, overheat more easily, and are prone to eye and dental problems. Size labels don't change those basics.
Why "Teacup" Is a Red Flag in Online Ads
This part isn't about any one breeder. It's about scams. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) lists the word "teacup" in an advertisement as one of its pet-scam red flags, alongside very low prices and sellers who refuse to meet in person or take a video call.
Plenty of honest people use the word casually. Still, if you see "teacup" or "imperial" in an online listing, slow down and ask questions:
- Can I visit, or at least see the puppy on a live video call?
- Can I see the parents?
- What does the health guarantee cover?
- What are the puppy's registration papers?
How We Approach Size at Sherman's
At Sherman's Shih Tzu Puppies, our puppies are AKC registered and DNA tested, come with a health guarantee, and are raised in our home and handled every day.
We're glad to talk honestly about what to expect from any puppy you're considering. If you're still deciding whether the breed fits your family, start with Is a Shih Tzu Right for Your Family?. For feeding schedules and the first months at home, see Shih Tzu Puppy Care 101.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an imperial Shih Tzu?
It's a marketing name for a Shih Tzu that is smaller than the breed standard. It is not a separate breed or an AKC-recognized variety.
Is a teacup Shih Tzu the same as an imperial Shih Tzu?
The American Shih Tzu Club says the terms are used interchangeably for undersized Shih Tzu. Neither is an official size.
How big should a Shih Tzu be?
The breed standard calls for an ideal weight of 9 to 16 pounds and an ideal height of 9 to 10½ inches at the shoulder.
Are tiny Shih Tzus unhealthy?
Not every small dog is unhealthy, but very small puppies are prone to low blood sugar, according to VCA. The American Shih Tzu Club says breeding for tiny size can produce puppies with health problems. Talk with your vet.
Can an imperial Shih Tzu be AKC registered?
A purebred Shih Tzu from registered parents is registered as a Shih Tzu. The AKC does not recognize "imperial" or "teacup" as a size or variety.
Meet Our Shih Tzu Puppies
Want to see a healthy, sturdy Shih Tzu puppy in person? Visits in Niota, TN are by appointment Monday through Saturday 9 AM to 8 PM, and Sunday 12 PM to 5 PM. FaceTime calls and texts are welcome too at 423-920-3750. Our puppies are never shipped; pickup is in person only.