What is the difference between a Shih Tzu and a Chinese Imperial Dog (CID)?
CIDs are virtually Shih Tzus – in a smaller package. The Shih Tzu breed standard has a set weight of 9 – 16 lbs. and the CIDs standard weight is set at 8.5 lbs. or less. CIDs are Shih Tzus bred for a smaller size (“think poodles” which come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes).
The CID is not yet fully recognized as a separate breed from the Shih Tzu with most registries, therefore our CID pups will be AKC registered as Shih Tzus but can be dual registered with a registry that recognizes the CID as a separate breed. For a list of registries that recognize the CID please visit the CID CLUB website.
For more on this subject please click the link bellow to read a blog written by a fellow Shih Tzu breeder and board member of the Chinese Imperial Dog Club: Does Size Really Matter?
How do CIDs get along with other animals?
Very well! CIDs are bred to be companion animals and enjoy the company of other furry friends!
What types of families do CIDs make good pets for?
Just about any! One of the things I most love about the CID is its versatility. They make fabulous lab dogs for the elderly and wonderful playmates for children – and just about anything in between! The only family I would not recommend a CID for would be a very busy one. CIDs are companion oriented and would be very unhappy if left alone most of the time.
Do you sell your puppies to families with small children?
Yes! I myself have a child. CIDs are one of the sturdiest of the small breeds – that, in addition to their friendly personalities makes them excellent for children. I do recommend that you supervise your children when playing with the puppy – especially when it is young and still quite small.
Is it hard to train a CID?
CIDs want very much to please you, however, they can be a stubborn breed. Training can be quite easy, or may take some doing. It really depends, in part, on you finding the right training method and incentives for your particular CIDs. Many CIDs are food motivated so you may use small treats as rewards. CIDs are also highly relationship oriented, so I recommend time and attention rewards for positive reinforcement of good behavior. As with any breed, consistency is the key, but with a CID, you most certainly NEED to establish your position as leader of the pack right from the start!!
What method for potty training do you recommend?
I recommend that you use crate training to assist you in potty training. I have a flyer with specific instructions including what type of crate to buy, how long your puppy should be crated and much more. I include this flyer in your puppy pack, but if you would like, it may be e-mailed to you as well.
Which is better -- a male or a female puppy?
Although many people like the little females simply because that is all they have ever owned, males most often make the better family pet. They are not as independent as a female which often means they are more loyal and affectionate towards their owners. They do not have the moods that the females seem to go through. We do recommend you have male puppies neutered when they are about 4 to 6 months of age.Can male puppies wear bows too?
Yes! You can put bows in the "top-knots" of the little boys too! I get mine from a very nice lady named Angie. She makes them in many colors and styles for both genders. You can email her at AngelDstf@aol.com or go directly to Angie's Ebay Store.
What Colors Do CIDs Come in?
For a list of colors please see CID colors.
Are all your puppies AKC registered?
All of our parent dogs are AKC registered as Shih Tzus. Your puppy will come with limited registration (pet only) unless otherwise stated.Dogs 8.5 lbs. or less may be dual registered with an association recognizing the Chinese Imperial Dog. These associations are listed on the CID CLUB website.
Do you offer a guarantee on your puppies?
Yes! I do guarantee the health of your puppy from genetic disease for one year from the date of purchase. You can read my entire guarantee by clicking here.
I do NOT guarantee size or color. Most Shih Tzus lighten in color as they mature into adults and some even go through several color changes before reaching their final adult coat. I do my best to provide you with an accurate guess on the puppies' color and weight at maturity, but I can't always be exact.
Some of the things I take into consideration when determining color and/or the estimated adult weight of our puppies:
-parents
-past puppies produced by the same parents
-multiplying the 8 week weight by 3.8 (female) or 4.5 (male)
-doubling the 3 month weight
What is the price of your puppies?
My prices are based on size, color, gender and pedigree and therefore can vary with each puppy.
I can find cheaper puppies in the local newspaper. Why do yours cost more?
I have heard many unfortunate accounts of those who have purchased a 'bargain puppy'. I myself have had such an experience where I purchased a puppy and it passed away shortly after. There was no health guarantee to protect me and thus my “savings” became wasted money.
My breeding dogs were purchased from reputable, knowledgeable, experienced breeders who test their dogs for genetic conditions before breeding. I have spent time getting to know the breed, and gaining more knowledge on how to be a better breeder from conception – to going home – and beyond! I am ALWAYS here for you!
My puppies are vet checked at least twice, and have been started on vaccinations and checked for parasites before they go to their new homes. I feed top quality food and provide my puppies with excellent care and socialization. Additionally I send your puppy home with a puppy pack filled with samples of tried and true products and valuable information that I have personally put together specifically for the breed – all to help you and your puppy get off to the BEST start possible!
Health, though the MOST important factor when choosing a puppy, is not the only reason a “bargain puppy” may in fact be a rip off. Once again I myself have a personal experience where I purchased such a dog, only to find out upon maturity that it looked and acted nothing like the breed I paid for. This became a frustrating fact for me when I was searching for my first dogs. I became determined to find dogs that best represented the CID breed in both looks and temperament. I strive to offer affordable prices on our puppies, which I’m sure, after some research, you will find to be true!
Can we visit, to decide which puppy we want? Are the parents on the premises?
Yes and Yes! I do limit when we allow visitors to come into my home, to reduce the potential to infect the new puppies with parvovirus. Please understand that the health of the puppies is my top priority, and I will allow visitors as soon as it's safe to do so.
I know that this is not always possible for my out-of-state families to come visit, so I will communicate with you via email/phone to help you decide which puppy is best for your family. I have a digital camera and take lots of pictures to share with you as well.
In most cases, I own both parents for my litters and they are here and available to receive visitors as well.
Is it okay to call you about the availability of your puppies?
Yes. I encourage you to call or email (whatever method you prefer) so that I can take some time to speak with each person to help match a puppy with its new family. I welcome your calls between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. EST at 304-657-7763. If there is no answer please leave a voicemail and I will get back to you shortly. Puppies are available for sale until a deposit has been placed on them.Do you have a waiting list for your puppies?
I have found that a waiting list is no longer the best way match puppies with their future homes. Therefore, I am currently offering two options if you are interested in owning a Moon River puppy.
1. You may be added to my Contact List. I will send emails regularly concerning expected litters, due dates, as well as the colors and sizes I anticipate. Puppies will be sold on a first come/ first serve basis, and puppies will not be held without a deposit.
2. You may reserve your Pick of the Litter. To ensure that you don't miss out on your perfect puppy, you may send a small $25 pick of the litter fee. This means you have rights to first or second pick depending on the order in which I received your fee.
If the color or gender you desire is not produced you may hold for a future litter or your monies will be returned. If it is available and you've just changed your mind, the monies are forfeited.
If you have rights to first or second pick, you will have one week (7 days) from first contact to choose and make a 50% deposit to reserve your puppy. If time expires your initial $25 fee will be forfeited.
In addition you may email, call, or check my web site at anytime for up to date litter information.
What is the procedure for placing a deposit on a puppy?
I only take deposits on puppies that have been born. At no time will I reserve a puppy without a deposit. You must speak to me (Rachel) via telephone or email about a specific puppy, confirming your plans to purchase the puppy. From that point the puppy will be placed on a temporary hold. If within 3 business days a deposit has not been received, the puppy will again be available for sale. Once the deposit has been received I will mark the puppy as reserved for you.
What payment methods do you accept and how do I get my payment to you?
I accept UNITED POSTAL SERVICE money orders, cashier's checks, cash, or personal checks. Personal checks will be accepted for initial deposit only.
Credit cards may be used through Pay Pal, but I will charge a 3% fee to cover the expenses. Please make Pay Pal payments to emailrachel@gmail.com
I will hold the puppy upon receiving a deposit of 50% of the total price, which is non-refundable. If the puppy dies, or fails the health examination prior to placement, the deposit will be refunded or credited to the purchase of another puppy (your choice). The remaining balance (including shipping charges) is due when the puppy is 8 weeks of age. If the puppy has not been paid for in full by 8 weeks of age the deposit will be forfeited ,and the puppy will again become eligible for sale. Puppies that are picked up in person can be paid for with cash or a money order (no checks, please) at that time.All puppies that are being shipped must be paid for in FULL (including applicable shipping charges) 7 days before the date the puppy is to be shipped.
It is best to email me at emailrachel@gmail.com when you have sent off your deposit so I know when to watch for it. Many people choose to send their payments with delivery confirmation so that the payment can be tracked. We will also email you when your payment has arrived.Do you ship puppies?
Yes! If you do not live within the West Virginia area, I have several options for getting your puppy to you. For the safety and comfort of the puppies I prefer that you either pick up your puppy from my home, or use one of the first two options listed bellow. If these are not practical for you, I do offer some other good alternatives. I love meeting our puppies’ new families in person, and traveling with you is his/her safest option so please consider coming to pick up your puppy if at all possible!
If you live within 5 driving hours of the Bridgeport, WV area I will meet you half-way for a seventy-five dollar fee.
You may fly into the Pittsburg airport (PIT) on any day when I will be there shipping puppies and we will meet your there to deliver your puppy. The cost for this option would be the cost of your airfare and a small fee imposed by the airline (usually about $50) for taking your pet in the cabin with you. This is less stressful for your puppy than cargo shipping as the puppy is in your care at all times. In addition you will not be limited to temperature restrictions because the puppy will be in a temperature controlled environment at all times.
I also ship via airline cargo for two-hundred and fifty dollars which includes air fair, crate, and health certificate. Airline shipping is ONLY available to locations serviced by Continental or American Airlines. When using AA temperatures for all points of travel must be between 20-75 degrees. Therefore in the summer months it is often necessary to use Continental as they keep their animals in a temperature controlled environment at all times which allows them no temperature restrictions. In my experience Continental and AA are the most recommended airlines for shipping animals.
When can my puppy come home?
In most cases, when coming to my home to pick up your puppy he/she will be ready at 8 weeks. If your puppy is very small, 10 weeks may be more appropriate. When your puppy requires shipping he/she will not be eligible to go home until 12 weeks of age per our vets advisement. I understand you are anxious to meet your new best friend, but CIDs are very small puppies and their health is my ultimate concern.
What if my plans for picking up the puppy are delayed?
Puppies that are being picked up in person are eligible for going home at 8 weeks of age. They must be picked up by the first day of the 9th week or a $15 a week charge will apply to cover the additional cost of food, care, and vaccinations needed during this time.
Puppies traveling by air cargo or van service must be 10 weeks of age to travel home. If the puppy is not scheduled to go home by the first day of the 11th week we will impose the $15 per week fee.
The fee will not be applicable to those whose arrangements have been delayed due to weather conditions.
Should I have my puppy spayed/ neutered?
Yes! All of my puppies (unless otherwise arranged) are sold on a spay/neuter contract. This is to discourage irresponsible breeding and help decrease the instances of unwanted pregnancy.Neutering your puppy will protect his health, help him/her to live longer and be a better pet, along with improving his/her house manners.
When a male is neutered at about 4 to 6 months of age, they rarely have the tendency to mark their territory as so many people are afraid of them doing in their homes. I have many happy owners of male puppies that have never had any problems with them in this way.
What should I feed my puppy?
Your puppy needs quality puppy food and fresh water close to him or her at all times. It is important to keep your puppy on puppy food until they are 12 months of age as they need the extra calories while growing. Please remember that using cheaper food is not really a bargain as cheaper varieties require you feed much more food than quality foods, and may not provide your pet with the best nutrition. I use FLINT RIVER RANCH, a premium quality twice oven-baked dog food you can have shipped to your door for less than buying the leading quality food sold at your local pet store. You will receive information and samples with your puppy pack. For more information on Flint River Ranch Pet Food and studies on pet food please click here.
What type of grooming will my puppy require?
Give your puppy a bath only when he/she smells or is dirty. Be careful not to get water in their ears. I recommend putting cotton in their ears while you're bathing them. Use a mild puppy shampoo and be careful not to get shampoo into their eyes. Dry your puppy immediately so that it doesn't get chilled and catch a cold.
Depending on what hair style you choose for your puppy (full coat or kept short) you will need to visit your groomer every 4-6 weeks. Find a groomer who can bathe, cut hair, clean/pluck ears, trim nails and check the anal gland.
Keep in mind, if you choose to keep your puppy in full coat you will need to set aside time for daily brushing. Begin brushing your puppy as soon as possible to get him/her used to it. You should use a brush with flexible pins called a slicker, and a metal comb to remove any mats.
CIDs can be prone to ear infections. Check your puppy’s ears regularly for dirt build
up and/or a foul odor. It’s a good idea to clean them once a week with an ear solution (can
be purchased from your vet or local pet store). If you have any questions your vet can
show you how to properly do this. Ear cleaning/ plucking can also be done by your
local groomer.
Plaque and tarter build up can not only give your puppy stinky breath. If left untreated it
can lead to disease and infection. Use soft foods and treats sparingly (or not at all) and
offer (safe) chew treats such as Nylabones and brush your puppy’s teeth weekly for
healthy teeth and gums.
How often should my puppy get a checkup?
Take your puppy to your veterinarian for regular check-ups and vaccinations. Check with your veterinarian on how often they recommend you bring your puppy in, and then be sure you do so. Giving your puppy this extra care and attention will return it a hundred fold.
Do you offer Full registration?
I prefer to sell our puppies with pet only (limited) registration. I love to know they are going to homes where they are expected to do nothing more than be loving companions. However, I will at times sell them with full registration at my discretion. Not all litters will be offered with full registration option. Prices will be increased by $250 and I will ask about your plans for my puppy if full registration is requested.Do you offer Stud Service?
Yes! My boy is available for stud to approved Shih Tzu or CID females. You are welcome to visit them in person or view pictures and pedigrees on the website.
Once you have made the decision to breed your female and have chosen Romeo as your stud, you will need to watch your female carefully for the first day of her heat. When she reaches the 7-10th day of her heat she will need to be brought to my home for a mating. She will be mated every-other day as she accepts; ideally for a total of three matings. If you are local and will be bringing your dog to each mating, the fee will be $350. Should she need to stay with me during the mating time the fee will be $450.
Fees are due on the day your dog is first brought for mating. Should the matings not result in a pregnancy you will be offered a second mating at no additional charge.