The origin of Shih Tzu emerges to be interwoven in the mystery of prodigies of China and Tibet. There are several theories propounded by different anthropologists. One theory suggests that the Manchu dynasty was the origination of the modern Shih Tzu. Another theory suggests that the Shih Tzu was originated in the Imperial Courts of China via silk trade routes. Many theorists believe that Tibetan sleeve dogs are the forms of modern Imperial Shih Tzu. For decades the Shih Tzu has been typed as 'Imperial size' or 'Teacup size', however, the American Kennel Club (AKC) defines it as standard 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.

The commercial demand for an Imperial Shih Tzu is significantly high. Their cute loving size draws the attention of many individuals and families around the world. People can easily take them, even in a pocket, anywhere as they wish. They require additional nutritional supplements, care and affection. Due to their small size they need to be hand-fed. This is why the sellers of Imperial Shih Tzu ask such a higher price for these puppies.

The price is determined on the basis of various extrinsic and intrinsic factors such as breeding parents, gender, color, markings and size. An exquisite teacup Imperial Shih Tzu is available at the price of $2500. Its full-grown size is limited to six pounds or less. On the other hand, the full-grown size of a regular Imperial Shih Tzu varies between six and nine pounds and it is available at the price of $1000. For the full-grown size of a regular Shih Tzu of nine pounds or more, the price starts at around $500.