Quick Facts About Chinese Imperial

Country of origin

The Chinese Imperial originated from China and were originally bred to be companion dogs for people with royalty. They were used as foot and bed warmers by emperors for many years, and were small enough to be carried around in sleeves, alongside the Pekingese, Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso. Although very similar in appearance as the Shih Tzu, The Chinese Imperial Dog is its own breed with its own standards, and is considerably smaller.

Size

Chinese Imperial2This small breed, often named nowadays as the Miniature or Teacup Shih Tzu, is less than 9 inches in height and weighs around 2 to 4 kilograms, which makes it roughly one half of the famous Shih Tzu. They are bred to have larger heads than usual, and even larger eyes that give them a very adorable, doll-like look. These dogs have wide heads, short muzzles, sweet expressions, sturdy bodies, dropped ears, and curved tails with long, flowing hair.

Coat

The Chinese Imperial dog have long double coats that are usually trimmed to be medium in length. Their coats have a variety of colors such as white, black, or cream, and can be bi or tri-colored.

Character

These lovable dogs are very playful and sweet, but at the same time quite sturdy and a tad bit more independent compared to most other dog breeds. They are active and intelligent, and very much enjoy being a lap dog. They are friendly dogs who get along well with strangers and other animals, especially when properly socialized.

Temperament

Because of their small size, the Chinese Imperial is very prone to the “small dog syndrome” which basically an issue they develop as a result of their masters overly spoiling or babying them. Even though these dogs are cute and cuddly and are easy to manage, it doesn’t mean that they don’t need exercise or boundaries. Like with all dogs, their owners must take them on daily walks and mentally stimulate them with toys and regular training. These dogs are great with kids, but only if the kids have been taught how to properly interact with dogs. They are not so suitable with very young children, because they are so small and can be quite fragile especially since small children can be quite rough when playing.

Care

The Chinese Imperial, having similar hair as the Shih Tzu, must be regularly groomed and preferrably trimmed once a month. Occasional bathing is required, and regular nail-trimming and ear cleaning. Since they are small, are calm, and enjoy the indoors, they are suitable to live in any living condition.

Training

The Chinese Imperial is a smart breed, but takes some effort to train. But once you find the right reward to motivate them (like food treats or toys) then training them is not impossible.

Activity

Daily walks would be ample enough to shed off this breed’s excess energy, as well as daily play and training. They would thoroughly enjoy an occasional off-leash experience inside a fenced in area, and are better off walking on the ground as compared to being carried around like what most people do with their small dogs.