The Shih Tzu is one of the many pure breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), which is a revered organization where purebred dogs can register and compete. Shih Tzu dogs have many defining characteristics that will be listed later in this article. The important thing to know is that the AKC only allows dogs that meet breed standards and have a pedigree or documented lineage to compete in standard dog shows. Substandard dogs, even if they are purebred, cannot compete.

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. Later, they became the pets of Chinese emperors. Shih Tzu were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and have won a record-breaking number of AKC competitions since that time. Though Teacup Shih Tzu dogs are smaller than breed standard, they are still referred to as Chinese Imperial Dogs due to their illustrious history.

The American Kennel Club has certain breed standards, which dogs of each breed must have in order to compete. Shih Tzu must weigh between nine and sixteen pounds, must be between eight and eleven inches in height, and must have a compact body with any color combination of long, silky fur. Facial hair must be gathered in a topknot out of the eyes. The eyes are dark with very little of the white showing. The AKC even has breed standards for temperament. Shih Tzu must be happy, outgoing, friendly, and trusting.
The Teacup Shih Tzu is also referred to as a Toy, Miniature, Toi, Pocket, or Imperial Shih Tzu. It is registered as a breed with the National Canine Association under the name Chinese Imperial dog. Whatever name you call it, Teacup Shih Tzu dogs are smaller than standard Shih Tzu. They weigh only four to seven pounds and stand less than nine inches tall as adults.

Teacup Shih Tzu are purebred and may have just as documented an ancestry as standard Shih Tzu. But because they are substandard in size, the American Kennel Club will not allow them to register for competition. The NCA has cleared this up by registering them as an entirely new breed. Teacup Shih Tzu, or Chinese Imperial Dogs, have the long, silky fur, happy temperament, and brown or black eyes of the standard Shih Tzu, but have shorter backs, smaller overall size, and a cuter, more doll-like face. Many who want a smaller, more adorable version of the standard Shih Tzu love these little dogs.

The Teacup Shih Tzu is one example of Shih Tzu mixed breeds. Shih Tzu information and the differences between standard and Teacup Shih Tzu are subjects covered in this article.