How to Train a Shih Tzu: Step By Step

Shih Tzus are adorable little dogs with big personalities. They have a very friendly nature and loving disposition.

But don’t let their cute faces fool you – they can be quite stubborn and needs quality training.

Training your Shih Tzu is the key to having a the best pup ever who brings joy to your life without driving you crazy.

What you’ll learn

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about training your Shih Tzu.

From potty training to advanced tricks, and a lot more. So grab some treats, put on your patient hat, and let’s get to see the good stuff!

Step 1: Potty Training

Ah, potty training – the first big hurdle for any new puppy parent. Shih Tzus have tiny bladders, so be ready for frequent potty breaks, especially when they’re young.

Understanding the Shih Tzu’s bladder control

• Puppies can usually hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age.
• Adult Shih Tzus should be able to hold it for 6-8 hours •
• Excitement, anxiety, or a change in routine can lead to accidents

Techniques for effective potty training

1. Set a consistent schedule for meals and potty breaks
2. Take your pup out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime
3. Use a specific phrase like “Go potty” to help them associate the words with the action
4. Reward success with treats and praise
5. Clean up accidents thoroughly to remove the scent

What is the best method for potty training a Shih Tzu?

The most effective method for potty training a Shih Tzu is a combination of crate training and positive reinforcement. Here’s a simple breakdown:

1. Use a crate when you can’t supervise your pup (A cozy crate like this is perfect for Shih Tzus)
2. Take your dog out every 1-2 hours during the day
3. Reward successful potty trips with treats and lots of praise
4. Be patient and consistent – it can take 4-6 months for full potty training

Remember, accidents will happen. Don’t punish your pup, just clean it up and move on. With time and patience, your Shih Tzu will get the hang of it!

Step 2: Obedience Training

Teaching your Shih Tzu basic commands is essential for a well-behaved pup. These little dogs can be stubborn, but they’re also smart and eager to please. The key is to make training fun and rewarding.

Basic commands: sit, stay, come, down, heel

Start with these five basic commands:

1. Sit: Hold a treat near your dog’s nose, then slowly move it up and back. As their head tilts back, their bottom will naturally lower.
2. Stay: Ask your dog to sit, then hold your hand up like a stop sign. Take a step back, wait a few seconds, then return and reward.
3. Come: Say your dog’s name followed by “come” in a happy voice. When they come to you, give lots of praise and a treat.
4. Down: Start with your dog in a sit position. Hold a treat near their nose, then slowly lower it to the ground. As they follow the treat, they should lie down.
5. Heel: Keep your dog on a short leash by your side. Walk forward, encouraging them to stay next to you. Reward them for staying close.

Importance of consistency and positive reinforcement

• Always use the same command words
• Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and fun
• End each session on a positive note and Use high-value treats for motivation (These tasty training treats are perfect for Shih Tzus)

How long does it take to obedience train a Shih Tzu?

Every dog is different, but most Shih Tzus can learn basic commands within 4-6 weeks of consistent training. However, it may take several months for these commands to become reliable in different situations. Remember, training is an ongoing process throughout your dog’s life.

Step 3: Leash Training

Teaching your Shih Tzu to walk nicely on a leash is crucial for enjoyable walks and their safety. These little pups can be quite energetic, so start leash training early!

Teaching your Shih Tzu to walk on a leash

1. Get your pup used to wearing a collar or harness around the house
2. Attach the leash and let them drag it around (supervised) to get used to the feeling
3. Pick up the leash and encourage them to follow you with treats
4. Practice walking short distances indoors before venturing outside

Tips for preventing pulling and distractions

• Use positive reinforcement – reward your dog for walking beside you
• Stop walking if your dog pulls, and only continue when the leash is slack
• Bring high-value treats to keep their attention on walks
• Practice in low-distraction areas before tackling busier environments

What equipment is best for leash training a Shih Tzu?

For Shih Tzus, a harness is often better than a collar for leash training. It distributes pressure more evenly and prevents strain on their delicate necks. This comfortable harness is perfect for Shih Tzus and comes in adorable colors!

Pair the harness with a 4-6 foot leash for optimal control. A sturdy leash like this one gives you enough length for freedom while keeping your pup close.

Step 4: Aggressive Training

While Shih Tzus are generally sweet-natured, any dog can display aggressive behaviors if not properly trained or socialized. It’s important to address these issues early.

Identifying signs of aggression in Shih Tzus

• Growling or snapping
• Showing teeth or snarling
• Raised hackles (hair standing up along the back)
• Stiff body posture
• Excessive barking or lunging

Strategies to manage and reduce aggressive behavior

1. Identify the trigger for the aggression (fear, resource guarding, etc.)
2. Work on desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques
3. Increase exercise and mental stimulation
4. Consider professional help from a dog behaviorist if needed

How can I stop my Shih Tzu from being aggressive?

The key to stopping aggression is understanding its root cause and addressing it with patience and positive reinforcement. Here’s a simple plan:

1. Avoid situations that trigger aggression while you’re working on training
2. Teach and reward calm behaviors
3. Use calming aids like this one to help reduce anxiety
4. Never punish aggressive behavior – it can make things worse
5. Seek professional help if the aggression is severe or you’re not seeing improvement

Remember, aggression often stems from fear or insecurity. Your goal is to help your Shih Tzu feel safe and confident.

Step 4: Socialization

Proper socialization is crucial for raising a well-adjusted Shih Tzu. These little dogs can be wary of strangers and other animals if not exposed to them early on.

Importance of socializing your Shih Tzu with other dogs and people

• Helps prevent fear and aggression
• Builds confidence in new situations
• Makes vet visits and grooming easier
• Leads to a happier, more relaxed dog overall

Activities to enhance social skills

1. Puppy classes or socialization groups
2. Walks in different neighborhoods
3. Visits to pet-friendly stores
4. Playdates with friendly, vaccinated dogs
5. Exposure to different sounds, surfaces, and experiences

At what age should I start socializing my Shih Tzu?

The critical socialization period for puppies is between 3 and 16 weeks of age. However, you should start gentle socialization as soon as you bring your puppy home. Just be sure to wait until they’ve had their first round of vaccinations before exposing them to other dogs or public areas.

For adult Shih Tzus, it’s never too late to start socializing, but you’ll need to go slower and be more patient.

Step 5: Advanced Training Techniques

Once your Shih Tzu has mastered the basics, it’s time for some fun advanced training! These smart little dogs are capable of learning all sorts of tricks.

Tricks and fun commands to teach your Shih Tzu

1. Spin
2. Roll over
3. Play dead
4. High five
5. Fetch specific toys by name

Using clicker training for effective learning

Clicker training is a great way to mark desired behaviors precisely. Here’s how it works:

1. Click the clicker at the exact moment your dog performs the desired behavior
2. Immediately follow the click with a treat
3. Repeat until your dog associates the click with a reward
4. Use the clicker to shape more complex behaviors

This clicker set is perfect for getting started with clicker training your Shih Tzu.

What advanced tricks can I teach my Shih Tzu?

Shih Tzus are clever dogs capable of learning many advanced tricks. Here are some fun ones to try:

• Weave through your legs as you walk
• Balance a treat on their nose
• Put toys away in a basket
• Ring a bell to go outside
• Dance on their hind legs

Remember to break down complex tricks into smaller steps and always keep training sessions fun and positive!

Common Challenges in Training

Even the sweetest Shih Tzu can present some training challenges. Being prepared for these hurdles will help you overcome them with patience and consistency.

Dealing with stubbornness and distractions

• Keep training sessions short and fun
• Use high-value treats to maintain interest
• Train in a quiet area before moving to more distracting environments
• Be more interesting than the distraction – use an excited voice and animated movements

Solutions for common behavioral issues

1. Excessive barking: Teach a “quiet” command and reward silence
2. Chewing: Provide appropriate chew toys and redirect when needed
3. Jumping on people: Ignore the behavior and only give attention when all four paws are on the ground
4. Separation anxiety: Gradually increase alone time and use calming aids like this one to help

What are the most common problems when training a Shih Tzu?

The most frequent challenges Shih Tzu owners face during training are:

1. Stubbornness: Shih Tzus can be independent thinkers. Stay patient and make training fun.
2. Short attention span: Keep sessions brief and engaging.
3. Housebreaking difficulties: Be consistent and set a strict schedule.
4. Excessive barking: Teach the “quiet” command and reward calm behavior.
5. Separation anxiety: Work on gradually increasing alone time.

What works for one Shih Tzu might not work for another. Be flexible and willing to adjust your approach as needed.

Health and Safety Considerations

A healthy Shih Tzu is a trainable Shih Tzu. Understanding your pup’s physical needs and limitations is crucial for effective and safe training.

Understanding the physical limitations of the breed during training

• Shih Tzus are brachycephalic (flat-faced), which can lead to breathing issues
• They’re prone to overheating, so avoid intense exercise in hot weather
• Their long coat can get tangled or dirty during outdoor training sessions
• Small size means they tire more quickly than larger breeds

Importance of regular vet check-ups and grooming

• Schedule regular vet visits to catch any health issues early
• Keep vaccinations up to date
• Brush your Shih Tzu’s coat daily to prevent matting (This gentle brush is perfect for their long hair)
• Clean their ears and eyes regularly to prevent infections
• Trim nails every 2-3 weeks to prevent discomfort during training

How does health affect my Shih Tzu’s training?

A Shih Tzu’s health can significantly impact their ability to learn and focus during training. Here’s how:

1. Pain or discomfort can lead to irritability or aggression
2. Poor vision or hearing can make it hard to follow commands
3. Dental issues can make treat-based training uncomfortable
4. Allergies or skin problems can cause distraction during training sessions

Always consult with your vet if you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or ability to learn. Sometimes, what seems like a training issue could actually be a health problem.

The End..

Training a Shih Tzu requires patience, consistency, and a whole lot of love. These adorable little dogs may be stubborn at times, but they’re also incredibly loving and eager to please their humans. Remember, the time you invest in training your Shih Tzu will pay off with years of companionship with a well-behaved, happy pup.

Key takeaways for successful Shih Tzu training:

• Start early and be consistent
• Use positive reinforcement and lots of praise
• Keep training sessions short and fun
• Socialize your pup from a young age
• Be patient – every dog learns at their own pace
• Address any health issues promptly