Chinese Imperial Dog

In ancient times, we know that there were small companion dogs who lived with Chinese nobility and were treasured for their companionship. According to the Chinese Imperial Dog Club of America, the Chinese Imperial dog has been in existence for over 2000 years, while others such as the American Kennel Club claim they only date back as far as the 1960's. The history books confirm that the Dowager Empress Cixi, who was one of China's last monarchs, was a dog fancier who had many small dogs. Foreign dignitaries were often gifted these small dogs - the Chinese Imperial dog and the larger Shih Tzu. The American Kennel Club claims that during the 1960s when the Shih Tzu was rising in popularity, some dog breeders bred down their dogs -  a term known as 'dwarfing down' of a breed. After many generations, the smaller size becomes part of the genes. It was in the era of the 1980-1990's that the terms ' teacup', 'mini' and 'tiny toy' phrases began to emerge to describe the smaller Shih Tzu. The AKC at the time stepped in and confirmed the Shih Tzu standard height and weight requirements to penalize the 'new' small dogs; they declared dwarfing down was unethical and unhealthy for the dog. While the debate over the Chinese Imperial still rages, the National Canine Association formerly recognized the Chinese Imperial, and soon others followed. In the year 2008, the Chinese Imperial Dog Registry of America was formed to maintain the official studbook. While there is virtually no difference in personality between the two breeds, the Imperial have firmly established that - tiny or not - they are here to stay. There is no doubt that this tiny dog will remain a favorite companion for many years to come, regardless of the debate over their origins.