Shih Tzus are brilliant dogs. Their most important goal is to please their owners so they know about their successes and failures regarding Shih Tzu puppy training. However, unlike most other breeds. They are flighty and easily distracted up until about 10 weeks of age. You can begin training most puppies right away. But you must wait until your Shih Tzu puppy is 10 to 12 weeks old before beginning serious potty training.
Shih Tzu puppies are highly excitable and have little bladder control until 10 weeks old.
Shih Tzu Puppy Training Takes Time
Attempting Shih Tzu puppy training too early can cause you to become discouraged, which could lead to you allowing the puppy to control the results of the sessions. Many dog trainers believe that the Shih Tzu can begin learning simple commands (not potty training) between 6 and 9 weeks. However, it depends on how complex the commands are.
Up to this point, you are better served by keeping them in a controlled area with newspapers or potty training pads on the floor while you regulate their eating and drinking times of the day.
When you find your puppy urinating or defecating at regular times of the day, it is time to begin potty training. For example, your puppy should want to defecate right as it wakes up and again within 10-15 minutes after it eats its morning meal.
Do not try to limit when they go by; only give them water twice a day. Your puppy needs access to lots of water throughout the day.
Feed them once in the morning and once about 3 hours before bedtime.
Because they are high-energy pets, you must spend lots of time playing with them in these early weeks. While this may not seem like training, it establishes a bond between you and your pet.
Because you control where they can go in the house (perhaps by putting up a child safety gate), they will quickly understand you are the “alpha” in their pack.
So, when it comes time to train them, they will be ready to accept your commands and eager to please. When you do start training. Avoid negative feedback. Again, your Shih Tzu is very sensitive to your desires, and displeasing you can cause them great grief.
Praise your puppy when it does something right. A simple but firm “no” should suffice when it does something wrong.
Or try using a loud rattle to startle the puppy. A tin can with marbles in it works well. This should stop them from doing what they are doing, and you can lead them to do it somewhere more appropriately.
Almost all puppies have issues at first with potty training or housetraining. However, this lasts only a little while. This dilemma is especially true for this breed. Shih Tzus has tiny bladders that can cause accidents when training.
Crate training is a simple but effective method of potty training your dog. However, it will require a lot of patience, praise, and positive reinforcement. Shih Tzus are relatively clean dogs and do not want to soil their crates, but due to their small bladders, accidents will happen.
Correctly starting Shih Tzu puppy training from the first day you bring him home ensures that training goes smoothly. Your new puppy is nervous about being in strange surroundings and away from his mom and littermates.
Getting accustomed to a new home will take time. Try to make it as stress-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age to start Shih Tzu puppy training?
The ideal time to start Shih Tzu puppy training is amongst 8 and 12 weeks old. Early socialization and basic training at this age can lead to better long-term behavior and adaptability.
How can I effectively house-train my Shih Tzu puppy?
Consistency is key. Use a regular feeding schedule and take your puppy outside regularly, specifically after meals and naps. Positive reinforcement, such as treats and blessings, should be given immediately after they are eliminated outside.
What are some advanced training techniques for Shih Tzu puppies?
Clicker training: Utilizes a clicker sound to mark desired behavior, followed by a reward.
Target training: Teaches your puppy to touch or follow a target, which helps guide behaviors.
Shaping: Gradually training complex behaviors by reinforcing successive approximations of the desired action.
How do I address common behavioral issues in Shih Tzu puppies?
Barking: Identify the trigger and desensitize your puppy to it, combined with command training such as “quiet.”
Chewing: Provide plenty of toys and redirect chewing behavior from inappropriate objects.
Separation anxiety: Gradually boost your puppy’s time alone and create a comfortable, safe space.
Expose your puppy to various environments, sounds, people, and other animals. Aim for at least one new experience daily during the critical socialization period (up to 16 weeks old).
How can I teach my Shih Tzu puppy to walk on a leash?
Start with short indoor sessions, allowing your puppy to get used to wearing a collar and leash. Gradually increase the duration and introduce outdoor walks. Use treats to reward calm walking beside you.
What role does diet play in Shih Tzu puppy training?
A balanced diet is crucial for cognitive development and energy levels. High-quality puppy food rich in DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) supports brain development, making training sessions more effective.
Are specific commands particularly important for Shih Tzu puppies?
Essential commands include “sit,” “stay,” “come,” “leave it,” and “down.” These form the foundation for more advanced training and help manage your puppy’s behavior in various situations.
How long should training sessions be for Shih Tzu puppies?
Keep sessions short and engaging, ideally between 5 to 10 minutes, multiple times daily. Puppies have short attention spans, and brief sessions help maintain their interest and enthusiasm.
What are some tips for training a stubborn Shih Tzu puppy?
Patience and consistency are vital. Break training into smaller steps, use high-value rewards (treats your puppy loves), and ensure each session ends positively. Avoid chastisement, as it can lead to fear and anxiety, hindering training progress.
DISCLAIMER: The information on shihtzudoginformation.com is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only. The content is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal health provider with any questions you may have regarding your dog’s health or medical condition.
References
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/puppy-training-timeline-teaching-good-behavior-before-its-too-late
- VCA Animal Hospitals – https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/training-your-dog-using-positive-reinforcement
- PetMD – https://www.petmd.com/dog/training/evr_dg_housetraining_a_puppy
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) – https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/puppy-behavior-and-training
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) – https://apdt.com/resource-center/puppy-socialization
- Whole Dog Journal – https://www.whole-dog-journal.com/training/how-to-train-your-dog-to-walk-on-a-loose-leash
- Veterinary Partner – https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951490
- Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University – https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/2020/01/feeding-your-puppy
- The Humane Society of the United States – https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/puppy-training
- Monks of New Skete – https://www.monks.org/raising-a-puppy
