How to train your Shih Tzu effectively

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The Shih Tzu dog is extremely friendly and active. They are very lovable and great companions to have around.  As with other dogs, it is important to train them as soon as possible so you can establish a happy and strong relationship with them.  Below are the most common types of training for this breed of dog and the steps to take.

Housebreaking the Shih Tzu

The first thing you should do is decide what place you want them to go to pee and poop. Consider whether you are going to train them to go to a crate, on a newspaper or outside. Once you decide this, you should stick with it.  Do not change places because it will only cause confusion to your puppy.

After you decided where this place is going to be, you need to take your dog there at various times during the day.  This should be 30 minutes after eating, after naps, before it is bedtime and anytime it looks like they need to go.

It is extremely important that you are vigilant and patient when you are potty training your Shih Tzu puppy. Create a routine for this and be consistent about it. Also, remember to praise your puppy for a job well done.

Obedience Shih Tzu training

In order to train your Shih Tzu to be obedient, you must gain your puppy’s respect from the beginning.  They must learn to recognize you as the leader, not as an equal. You want your puppy to learn and follow certain commands such as sit, heel, lay down and come to you as directed.

You can attempt to train your dog on your own and with a little persistence, you can achieve this goal.  However it might be a good idea to seek the help of a professional obedience trainer.  These trainers are there to not only teach your pup, but also to give you tips and advice on the right ways to do it.

Getting your dog to socialize is probably the first advice you will receive from a professional. This means that your Shih Tzu be in contact with other dogs and people as much as possible. Socializing will help your puppy to overcome fear and feel comfortable around people and other dogs. One thing that a professional will attempt and advise you to do is get your dog socializing.  This simply means, getting your Shih Tzu around other types of dogs and people as much as possible. 

Patience and Persistence during Shih Tzu training

Training your Shih Tzu takes time.  You cannot expect them to learn everything in a week.  You need to be consistent and keep repeating the process over and over until they incorporate it. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make this process much smoother.

1.  Offer treats and rewards.  Reward your Shih Tzu with dog treats, toys or just some TLC when they respond to a command properly or every time they go to the bathroom in your designated spot. 

2.  Do not scold, hit or punish your pup.  This is counterproductive and frankly, abusive. Your pup will learn much quicker with praise, rewards and love.

3.  Train your Shih Tzu in short intervals.  These pups have a short attention span and get distracted easily.  If this happens, stop what you are doing and come back to it a little later.

Shih Tzu training can be done effectively by following the tips above and exercising patience.  Giving your puppy lots of love, rest and time for play will also help the process along.  Just do not give up.  You are the leader and your dog must learn to respect that.

The Shih Tzu Foundation

Shih Tzu Pictures

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Photo by Oscalito


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Photo by Oscalito


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Photo by Oscalito