How To Train Shih Tzus

Introduction

Shih Tzus are one of the most beloved dog breeds, known for their affectionate nature and charming personalities. They are small but sturdy, with a distinctive long coat that needs regular grooming. Training is crucial for these adorable companions, not only to ensure they are well-behaved but also to strengthen the bond between owner and dog. This guide will help you understand how to train Shih Tzus effectively, addressing their unique traits and needs.

Understanding the Shih Tzu Breed

Characteristics of Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are small, typically weighing between 9 to 16 pounds. They have a distinctive flat face with large, expressive eyes, and their long, flowing coat adds to their regal appearance.

• Temperament: Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and affectionate demeanor. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being around people.
• Size and Physical Attributes: With a height of about 9 to 10.5 inches, Shih Tzus are compact yet sturdy dogs, making them ideal for both city and country living.

Common Behavioral Traits

Understanding the common behavioral traits of Shih Tzus is essential for effective training.

• Affectionate Nature: Shih Tzus are loving and loyal, often wanting to be near their owners. This trait makes them excellent companions but can lead to separation anxiety if not addressed during training.
• Stubbornness: While they are eager to please, Shih Tzus can be somewhat stubborn, which may pose challenges during training. Recognizing this trait can help you develop more effective training strategies.

Understanding their behavior is crucial for training. When you know what motivates your Shih Tzu, you can tailor your approach to meet their needs.

Preparation for Training

Essential Supplies for Training

Before you start training your Shih Tzu, gather the necessary supplies to make the process smoother:

• Treats and Rewards: High-value treats are essential for positive reinforcement. Choose small, soft treats that are easy to chew.
• Training Clickers and Tools: A clicker can help mark desired behaviors, making it clear to your dog what they did right.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals is vital for maintaining motivation and ensuring progress:

• Short-term vs Long-term Goals: Start with short-term goals, like teaching one command per week. Long-term goals can include mastering more complex tasks or tricks.

Creating a Conducive Environment

Your training environment should be safe and distraction-free. Choose a quiet area in your home where your Shih Tzu can focus on you without interruptions.

Basic Commands to Teach Shih Tzus

Importance of Basic Commands

Teaching basic commands is fundamental in establishing good behavior and communication with your Shih Tzu. Here are some key commands to start with:

• Sit
• Stay
• Come
• Leave it

Step-by-step Instructions for Each Command

Sit

1. Get Your Dog’s Attention: Use treats to attract your dog’s attention.
2. Guide Their Nose Upward: Move the treat above their nose; as they lift their head, their bottom will naturally lower.
3. Say “Sit”: Once their bottom is on the ground, say the command “Sit” and give them the treat.
4. Reinforce: Repeat this several times until they understand the command.

Stay

1. Start with “Sit”: Begin with your Shih Tzu in the sitting position.
2. Open Your Palm: Place your palm in front of their face and say “Stay.”
3. Take a Step Back: If they stay, take a step back and reward them.
4. Increase Distance Gradually: Over time, increase the distance and duration before rewarding.

Come

1. Use a Leash: Attach a leash to your Shih Tzu.
2. Call Them: Use an excited tone to call your dog’s name followed by “Come.”
3. Reward: When they come to you, reward them immediately.
4. Practice: Gradually increase the distance over time.

Leave It

1. Hold a Treat in Your Hand: Show your Shih Tzu the treat but keep it closed.
2. Say “Leave It”: When they try to get the treat, say “Leave It.”
3. Reward Them: Once they back away, reward them with a different treat.

Tips for Reinforcing Learning

• Consistency is Key: Use the same commands and gestures to avoid confusion.
• Positive Reinforcement: Always reward your Shih Tzu immediately after they perform the desired behavior.

Socialization Techniques

What is Socialization and Why It Matters

Socialization is the process of exposing your Shih Tzu to different environments, people, and other animals. It’s crucial for developing a well-rounded and confident dog.

Key Socialization Skills for Shih Tzus

• Meeting New People: Expose your Shih Tzu to various individuals, ensuring they have positive experiences.
• Interacting with Other Dogs: Regular interaction with other dogs can help them learn proper play behavior.

Activities to Promote Socialization

• Dog Parks: Visit dog parks where your Shih Tzu can meet and interact with other dogs.
• Puppy Classes: Enroll in a puppy class to expose them to various stimuli and other dogs in a controlled environment.

Signs of Successful Socialization

• Calmness: They remain calm in new situations.
• Positive Interactions: They engage positively with other dogs and people.

Advanced Training Techniques

Overview of Advanced Training Concepts

Once your Shih Tzu has mastered basic commands, you can introduce advanced training techniques to keep them mentally stimulated.

Teaching Tricks and Fun Commands

Here are a few fun tricks to teach your Shih Tzu:

• Roll Over
• Play Dead
• Spin

Roll Over

1. Start with “Lie Down”: Get your dog into a lying down position.
2. Use a Treat: Move the treat from their nose towards their shoulder.
3. Guide Them to Roll: As they follow the treat, they will roll over. Reward them once they complete the roll.

Play Dead

1. Lie Down: Start with your Shih Tzu in a lying down position.
2. Use the Treat: Move the treat from their nose towards their side.
3. Say “Bang”: As they roll onto their side, say “Bang” and reward them.

Spin

1. Get Your Dog’s Attention: Use a treat to get their attention.
2. Guide Them in a Circle: Move the treat in a circular motion to encourage them to follow.
3. Reward: As they complete the circle, reward them and add the command “Spin.”

Using Agility Training for Mental Stimulation

Agility training is an excellent way to provide physical and mental stimulation. Consider setting up a small obstacle course in your backyard using cones, tunnels, and jumps.

Incorporating Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding your Shih Tzu for desirable behaviors. This creates a positive association with training and motivates them to learn.

Dealing with Behavioral Issues

Common Behavioral Problems in Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus can display certain behavioral issues, including:

• Barking Excessively: This can be a sign of boredom or anxiety.
• Chewing and Destructive Behavior: Often a result of separation anxiety or not enough exercise.
• Separation Anxiety: Shih Tzus may become clingy and anxious when left alone.

Strategies for Addressing These Issues

• Consistent Training Routines: Establish a routine to provide structure and predictability for your dog.
• Professional Help: If issues persist, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.

Importance of Patience and Consistency

Training can take time, especially with stubborn breeds like Shih Tzus. Patience and consistency are paramount in helping them learn and grow.

Maintaining Training Progress

How to Track Training Progress

Keep a log of your training sessions to track what is working and what needs improvement. Note your Shih Tzu’s responses to different commands and techniques.

Importance of Regular Practice

Regular practice is essential for reinforcing learned behaviors. Aim for short, frequent training sessions to keep your Shih Tzu engaged.

Keeping Training Sessions Fun and Engaging

Make training enjoyable by incorporating play and variety. Use different treats, locations, and commands to keep your Shih Tzu interested.

Adjusting Training Methods as Needed

Be flexible with your training methods. If something isn’t working, don’t hesitate to try a different approach or technique.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to train a Shih Tzu?

Training duration varies based on the individual dog and the complexity of the commands. Generally, basic commands can take a few weeks to a couple of months.

Can Shih Tzus learn commands quickly?

Yes, with positive reinforcement and consistency, Shih Tzus can learn commands quickly, though their stubbornness may sometimes slow the process.

What are the best treats for training?

Soft, high-value treats that your Shih Tzu loves work best. Avoid treats that are too large, as they may take too long to chew.

How to handle distractions during training?

Start training in a quiet space, gradually increasing distractions as your Shih Tzu becomes more confident and focused.

Is it better to train indoors or outdoors?

Both environments have their benefits. Indoor training is distraction-free, while outdoor training helps with socialization and real-world exposure.

Conclusion

Training your Shih Tzu is a rewarding journey that strengthens your bond and enhances their well-being. Remember to start early, be consistent, and maintain a positive attitude. With patience, love, and the right techniques, you can successfully navigate the exciting world of how to train Shih Tzus. Embrace the process, and enjoy every moment spent with your furry friend!