Many contemporary theorists argue that the contemporary form of Imperial Shih Tzu was evolved from Tibetan sleeve dogs. American Kennel Club (AKC) classifies the standard type of Shih Tzu, while it is commonly referred to as 'Imperial size' or 'Teacup size'.

The Chinese Empresses Dowager in the Imperial Palace of China got a hold of small Shih Tzu's in the six, seven, and eight pound sizes. However, the larger sizes were discarded in these early days of breeding in the palace. Either the larger sized Shih Tzu dogs were sold out in the underground market or killed. The smaller ones, on the other hand, were kept with utmost care and were presented as a honor to the diplomats and considered as the most crucial bequest 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.

Quite naturally you cannot purchase a Shih Tzu for the price of most other breeds. The price is settled depending on various factors like breeding pair, gender, color, markings and size. If you are ready to pay $2500, you might be able to buy a beautiful teacup Imperial Shih Tzu that tip the scales at a whopping full grown size of six pounds or less.

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.