Shih Tzu Puppy Training
Shih Tzus are a tiny and adorable dog breed. These social canines are one of the best pets to have as they are known for being affectionate companions.
However, it can be quite challenging when it comes to training a Shih Tzu puppy. Not only are they stubborn, but you also need to give them a lot of attention for them to be happy.
Fortunately, you can make your life easier during Shih Tzu training, by following this simple guide:
Tips for training a Shih Tzu Puppy
When you have a Shih Tzu puppy at home, you should start the training process as soon as possible. Keep in mind that teaching the canine basic commands is like taking care of a human baby.
It requires consistency and commitment from your side, to ensure your Shih Tzu grows up into a well-behaved, calm, and friendly companion.
Create ground rules
Before you start Shih Tzu puppy training, you need to be clear about the rules the canine has to follow in your household.
This will not only help craft the best training plan for your dog but also give you the results you desire. Remember, when you are happy, your canine will also be in the same mood.
Establish ground rules you don’t want your dog to break while it is inside your household. For instance, is it okay for your furry friend to be on your couch?
Are you going to allow it to enter your kitchen while you are cooking?
If you don’t have a clear picture of the ground rules, training a Shih Tzu puppy may not give the best results.
Use positive reinforcement
The problem with punishing your dog when it does the wrong thing is your canine may not understand your message.
For instance, shouting at your dog when it eliminates on your favorite carpet will make it fear you.
Instead, you should use positive reinforcement as this type of Shih Tzu puppy training works wonders.
Before you start teaching your canine how to behave, you need to make sure you have access to adequate number of treats.
As these canines are small, it is quite easy to overfeed them. You should look for healthier alternatives or reduce the portion of the treats.
Keep these treats in a bag to make it easy to carry them with you at all times. If there is a delay in rewarding your canine, it may not grasp why it is receiving the treat.
When you notice unacceptable behavior, you should get it to the attention of your dog immediately. Rather than punishing it, make a loud noise, or raise your voice.
When you have its attention, you can show your furry friend why you are unhappy with it.
Start with basic commands
When you are training a Shih Tzu puppy, you should start from the basics. Sit, stay, and lie down are three excellent commands you must teach your dog.
You can use them when you want your puppy to behave in social situations, such as guests coming over.
Every time your furry friend follows your command, you should give it a treat immediately. You must remain patient while Shih Tzu puppy training.
For excellent results, repetition of the same behavior is necessary. With adequate practice, the Shih Tzu puppy will follow your commands.
It is also essential you remain consistent while training a Shih Tzu puppy. Create a schedule and stick with it, as any variations can confuse your furry friend.
House Training a Shih Tzu puppy
Choose the right location
The first step in potty training a Shih Tzu puppy is to select the bathroom for your furry friend. It can be a litter box for dogs, puppy pads, or a location outside your house.
After you choose the spot, you should be consistent with the training process.
Although most pet owners prefer their dogs to go outside to answer nature’s call, this may not always be possible due to the weather.
In this situation, you might decide to allow your furry friend to eliminate inside the house. While this works for you, it can confuse your Shih Tzu puppy.
Associate words with potty training
While you are house training a Shih Tzu puppy, you should come up with a command your dog will associate with going to the bathroom.
Every time your furry friend answers to nature’s call, you must use the same word.
Pay attention to your Shih Tzu puppy
While potty training a Shih Tzu puppy, you must keep a close eye on its body language. This will help you understand when your puppy wants to use the bathroom.
For instance, it will start going in small circles, squat, or whine.
The moment you notice this behavior, take your Shih Tzu puppy to the designated bathroom spot.
Create a bathroom schedule
Like with any other dog training exercises, it is essential to create a schedule and be consistent with it for desirable results. Your Shih Tzu puppy will want to eliminate in the following situations:
· When it wakes up from sleep
· Post meals
· After every playing session
You should keep in mind that a Shih Tzu puppy has a small bladder. Due to this reason, it will want to defecate or urinate once in 1 ½ - 2 hours.
Use this as the basis for potty training a Shih Tzu puppy.
If you don’t want your Shih Tzu puppy to wake you up at night to eliminate, there are several ways you can work around this behavior.
You can take it for a walk late in the evening or feed it early.
When your Shih Tzu puppy urinates or defecates in the designated bathroom spot, you should reward it. Provide a bite-sized treat, before praising it for its behavior.
Conclusion
Although training a Shih Tzu puppy will test your patience, it is always worth the effort. Within a couple of months, you will have a dog who has a deep connection with you and listens to all your commands!