Training a Shih Tzu: Easy Steps for Beginners

Training a Shih Tzu can feel tricky, especially for beginners. These playful pups are smart, but they need patience and clear guidance to learn well. This guide will show you simple steps to help your Shih Tzu become the best companion possible.

Keep reading—you’ve got this!

Key Takeaways

• Start training early with tools like treats, a harness, and a crate. Short daily sessions (10–15 minutes) work best for focus.
• Use positive reinforcement methods. Reward good behavior with small treats or praise instead of punishment.
• Keep routines consistent for commands, meals, potty breaks, and practice times. This helps avoid confusion for your Shih Tzu.
• Socialize your puppy by exposing them gradually to new people and dogs in calm settings to build confidence.
• Teach simple commands first (like “sit” and “stay”) before moving on to advanced tricks or leash manners.

Preparing to Train Your Shih Tzu

Start with the right tools and a clear plan. A steady routine will keep your Shih Tzu focused and ready to learn.

Gather essential training supplies

Training your Shih Tzu starts with having the right tools. Proper supplies make the learning process smoother and more enjoyable.

1. Treat pouch
   A small treat pouch keeps rewards handy. Shih Tzus are food-motivated, so treats will grab their attention quickly.
2. Soft collar
   Choose a comfortable, soft collar that fits snugly but isn’t tight. It should not irritate your pup’s neck during training.
3. Harness
   A harness is gentler on a Shih Tzu’s small body. It’s useful for walks while teaching leash manners.
4. Training lead
   A sturdy training lead gives you better control during sessions. Look for one that allows enough movement without being too long.
5. Crate
   Use a crate for crate training and safe resting periods. It becomes their personal space over time.
6. Grooming tools
   Grooming tools like brushes keep a Shih Tzu’s coat neat and clean. Introducing them early helps avoid anxiety later at groomers.
7. Toys
   Training toys provide mental stimulation and reduce boredom between sessions.

Having these items on hand sets you up to train with confidence!

Establish a consistent training schedule

A routine brings calm to a Shih Tzu puppy. Plan training sessions at the same time every day. Puppies thrive on predictability, and this keeps them focused. Stick to short sessions lasting 10-15 minutes; they have tiny attention spans! For example, teach basic commands like “sit” in the morning and work on “stay” later in the day.

Use tools like apps such as Zigzag for schedules tailored by age and breed. Week 8 is great for further focusing on life skills classes too! Training before meals can also help since food rewards will be more motivating for them.

Keep it steady but flexible, avoiding long gaps that confuse or overwhelm your pup.

Housebreaking Your Shih Tzu

Potty training a Shih Tzu takes patience and a clear plan. Start setting routines early, so your puppy learns where to go without confusion.

Tips for potty training

Potty training a Shih Tzu puppy takes time and patience. These smart dogs can learn quickly with proper steps.

1. Start training as soon as your puppy arrives home. Puppies have small bladders and need frequent bathroom breaks.
2. Take your Shih Tzu outside first thing in the morning, after meals, naps, and before bedtime. Build a routine they can follow.
3. Use consistent commands like “go potty” or “do your business.” This helps them understand what you want.
4. Choose one spot for bathroom breaks outdoors. Familiar scents will encourage them to relieve themselves there again.
5. Reward success immediately with treats or verbal praise like “Good job!” Positive reinforcement boosts learning.
6. Keep an eye on your puppy indoors for signs like sniffing or circling. These often mean they need to go out.
7. Accidents happen—clean messes quickly using enzyme cleaners. This removes odors that might attract them back to the same spot.
8. Avoid punishment if accidents occur inside the house. Negative reactions may scare or confuse your puppy during training.
9. Crate training helps limit accidents when you’re not watching closely. Dogs avoid soiling their sleeping space naturally.
10. Be patient—it may take weeks or even months for complete housebreaking success! Stay consistent every single day.

Crate training basics

Crate training helps with housebreaking and creates a safe space for your Shih Tzu. It also makes travel easier and keeps your puppy comfortable.

1. Get a crate that fits your Shih Tzu. The crate should be big enough for them to stand, turn, and lie down but not too large. A cozy space feels secure.
2. Place the crate in a quiet spot. Choose an area where the puppy can relax but still see you sometimes.
3. Make it comfy inside the crate. Use soft padding or blankets to create a warm resting area.
4. Introduce the crate slowly. Leave the door open at first, letting the puppy explore without pressure.
5. Use treats to encourage them inside. Place small rewards inside so they associate it with good things.
6. Feed meals in the crate. Doing this shows them it’s a positive place connected to their favorite thing – food!
7. Start with short periods of time inside. Close the door briefly while staying nearby, then extend times gradually as they adjust.
8. Avoid using the crate for punishment. It should feel like a comforting den, not a jail cell.
9. Stick to consistent routines during training. Dogs thrive on schedules, so use regular feeding and potty breaks outside the crate.
10. Be patient through accidents or whining early on; always stay calm and supportive while training your Shih Tzu puppy!

Teaching Basic Commands

Start with simple instructions like “sit” or “stay.” Keep sessions short, fun, and full of praise to hold their attention.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awEo2sCmpIU

Sit

Teaching your Shih Tzu to sit is simple and essential. This command helps with discipline and sets the stage for future training.

1. Hold a treat in front of your Shih Tzu’s nose. Keep it close enough for them to sniff but not grab.
2. Slowly move the treat upward, so their head follows and their bottom naturally lowers to the ground.
3. The moment they sit, say “Sit” clearly while giving them the treat. Praise them enthusiastically right after.
4. Repeat this process a few times daily until your puppy understands the word “Sit.” Practice often but keep sessions short.
5. Don’t forget to use positive reinforcement like cheers or gentle pats whenever they respond correctly.
6. Avoid pushing your dog’s bottom down into a sitting position, as they may get confused or resistant.

This step makes basic dog training easier, paving the way for commands like stay and come.

Stay

Stay” is a key skill for any Shih Tzu puppy. It helps with safety and builds discipline. Follow these steps to teach it effectively:

1. Start in a quiet room with no distractions. This keeps your Shih Tzu focused on you.
2. Hold a tasty treat in your hand. Use something small, like a piece of chicken or their favorite snack.
3. Tell your dog to “sit.” Once they sit, show them the treat but don’t give it yet.
4. Say “stay” clearly while holding up your hand, palm facing them like a stop sign.
5. Take one step back slowly, keeping eye contact with your puppy.
6. Praise them if they stay put for even a second! Give the treat right after saying “good stay.”
7. Repeat this process several times daily in short sessions. Keep each session under 10 minutes to match their attention span.
8. Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog over time.
9. If they move before you say “okay” or release them, calmly guide them back to their original spot and try again.
10. Practice in different parts of the house once they master it indoors, then take it outside for more challenges.

This command is vital before teaching “come,” as both work together for control and safety outdoors!

Come

Teaching “Come” is vital for safety and control. This command helps keep your Shih Tzu out of trouble in everyday situations.

1. Use a cheerful tone to call your dog’s name, followed by the word “come.”
2. Hold a treat or toy in hand as motivation. Show it to your puppy but avoid tossing it.
3. Stand a few feet away from your Shih Tzu before starting this exercise.
4. Crouch down slightly to appear more approachable and inviting.
5. Once the dog moves toward you, reward immediately with a treat, verbal praise, or both. Positive reinforcement works best here.
6. Repeat this process several times daily in short sessions to maintain focus and energy.
7. Gradually increase distance while practicing indoors before moving outside with distractions.
8. Never scold if they don’t obey right away—stay patient and encouraging instead.
9. Call “Come!” only when you can enforce it, ensuring proper learning without confusion.

A solid understanding of “Come” leads directly into teaching leash manners!

Down

Teaching the “down” command to your Shih Tzu is straightforward and beneficial. It aids in obedience while strengthening your bond.

1. Begin in a quiet area free of distractions. Your Shih Tzu needs to concentrate.
2. Hold a treat close to their nose. Slowly lower it to the ground.
3. As their head follows the treat, their body will naturally lower.
4. Once they lie down, say “down” clearly and firmly as you reward them with the treat.
5. Add verbal praise like “good job!” or “well done!” immediately after they get it right.
6. Repeat this multiple times in short daily sessions, about 5-10 minutes each time.
7. Continue practicing until they respond to the spoken cue alone.
8. Be patient if progress is gradual; every dog learns at their own speed.
9. Use positive reinforcement, like treats or affection, instead of responding negatively to mistakes.
10. Stay consistent with commands across all family members to avoid confusion for your puppy!

Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Reward your Shih Tzu often, praise like they’re royalty, and watch them blossom into the best companion.

Using treats effectively

Treats can work wonders in Shih Tzu training. Use small, soft treats your puppy can chew quickly. A pea-sized piece is ideal for their tiny mouths. Offer the treat right after they obey a command, so they link it with good behavior.

Shih Tzus love food, making this approach highly effective.

Switch up flavors to keep them interested—chicken bits one day, cheese the next. Avoid overfeeding; balance treats with regular meals to prevent weight gain. Keep sessions short but fun to hold their attention and reinforce learning consistently without frustration for either of you!

Incorporating verbal praise

Dogs love to hear cheerful voices. Shih Tzu puppies respond well to verbal praise paired with treats. Say “good boy” or “good girl” in a happy tone as soon as they follow a command, like sitting or staying.

Use their name often so they feel the connection.

Keep the praise simple and specific. Instead of just saying “good job,” say “great sit” or “nice stay.” This helps them link your words to their actions. A warm voice can be just as rewarding as food for some dogs.

Combine these cues consistently during training sessions for lasting results.

Avoiding punishment-based methods

Harsh discipline can confuse your Shih Tzu puppy. Scolding might lead to fear or stubborn behavior. Positive reinforcement works better because it motivates the dog to learn. For example, give a small treat when your pup follows the “sit” command.

Avoid yelling if accidents happen during potty training. Shih Tzus are sensitive and moody by nature, so patience is key. Use gentle redirection instead of punishment for chewing on furniture or barking too much.

Consistency and kindness will teach your companion animal faster than threats ever could.

Socializing Your Shih Tzu

Start slow to help your Shih Tzu feel safe around new faces. A bit of patience and treats can work wonders in building their confidence.

Introducing your puppy to new people

A Shih Tzu puppy needs socializing to feel safe and friendly around others. Early exposure helps prevent fear or aggression later.

1. Let your Shih Tzu meet one person at a time. Crowds can overwhelm them, especially when they are young.
2. Sit calmly with your puppy in parks or busy areas. Watch how they react to strangers from a distance first.
3. Invite friends over who will stay calm and gentle during meetings. Loud voices or fast movements may scare the puppy.
4. Use positive reinforcement like treats or praise during introductions. This builds trust for future interactions.
5. Keep initial meetings short, about 5-10 minutes, to avoid over-stimulation.
6. Hold your Shih Tzu while new people pet them lightly on their back or head. It gives them a sense of safety.
7. Avoid forcing interaction if the puppy seems scared or shy at first. Let them approach on their own time.
8. Expose your dog to different ages, like children and older adults, so they get used to everyone’s energy levels.
9. Practice this weekly by bringing your dog around new faces in safe spaces like pet-friendly coffee shops or family events.
10. Always watch for signs of stress, like shaking, tail tucking, or whining, and give them breaks if needed!

Helping your puppy interact with other dogs

Your Shih Tzu met new faces, but now it’s time for doggy meet-ups. Dogs learn a lot from each other through interaction.

• Start with calm dogs. Choose well-behaved dogs your puppy can meet first. This keeps stress low.
• Use neutral ground like a park or open space. Avoid areas one dog might guard, like their home or yard.
• Let them sniff each other naturally. Sniffing helps dogs feel safe and gauge trust.
• Keep the leash loose during introductions. A tight leash can make your puppy feel tense or threatened.
• Watch their body language closely. Look for wagging tails and relaxed ears as signs of comfort.
• Bring treats to reward good behavior after positive interactions.
• Limit initial playtime to 10–15 minutes to avoid tiring them out or overwhelming your pup.
• If growling happens, separate calmly and try again another day.

End each session positively so your Shih Tzu connects meeting new dogs with fun experiences!

Managing Common Behavioral Issues

Behavior problems can test your patience, but with the right approach, they’re fixable. Focus on clear communication and rewarding good behavior to guide your Shih Tzu’s actions.

Addressing excessive barking

Excessive barking often means your Shih Tzu is bored, anxious, or seeking attention. Introduce positive reinforcement to redirect this behavior. Reward silence with treats or verbal praise like “Good quiet!” whenever they stop barking on command.

A consistent response helps them connect the dots quickly.

Make sure your puppy gets enough playtime and mental stimulation each day. Moody Shih Tzus benefit from puzzles or toys that keep them busy when you’re not around. If barking happens due to separation anxiety, try crate training for comfort.

Start small by leaving for a few minutes and slowly increase the time apart while keeping their space cozy and safe.

Preventing chewing or destructive behavior

Provide plenty of chew toys. A bored Shih Tzu can become a tiny tornado, shredding shoes or gnawing furniture. Rotate the toys weekly to keep them exciting. If chewing starts on something off-limits, redirect gently with a toy instead.

Use positive reinforcement when they choose the right items to chew. Praise them like they’ve won an award—enthusiasm goes a long way! Avoid harsh punishment; it might scare your dog and worsen behavior issues later on.

Move next into teaching leash manners for better control outdoors.

Advanced Training Steps

Teaching advanced skills can be a fun bonding time. With patience and practice, your Shih Tzu will shine like a little superstar!

Teaching leash manners

Walking a Shih Tzu on a leash can be simple with the right steps. Patience, practice, and positive reinforcement are key to success.

1. Start indoors with short sessions where there are no distractions. Let your puppy get comfortable wearing the harness and leash.
2. Use treats to encourage your puppy to walk beside you, not ahead or behind. Reward every small step they take by your side.
3. Keep the leash loose to avoid pulling or straining their neck. A harness is better for Shih Tzus as it protects their throat.
4. Practice commands like “heel” while walking in quiet areas first. Once they follow well, move outside gradually.
5. Stop walking if your dog pulls ahead too much. Resume only when they come back beside you—this teaches them that pulling won’t work.
6. Praise often with excited words like “good job!” Dogs love hearing happy tones—they’ll associate walking nicely with rewards.
7. Walk consistently at least twice a day during training months (6-8 months old). Repetition helps cement good habits faster!
8. Train on different surfaces like grass, sidewalks, or gravel so they adapt well in varied environments and don’t panic later.
9. Stay calm even if things don’t go perfectly at first—you’re teaching psychology of learning! Dogs sense frustration but respond best to encouragement.
10. Involve family members so everyone handles the leash correctly and reinforces the same lessons for long-term consistency!

Introducing fun tricks

Teaching leash manners builds discipline and sets a foundation for advanced tricks. Training your Shih Tzu with fun tricks can boost their mood and strengthen your bond.

1. Start with a simple trick like “Shake.” Hold a treat in your hand, say “Shake,” and gently lift their paw. Reward immediately when they follow through.
2. Teach “Spin” by holding a treat near their nose and slowly moving it in a circle. They’ll naturally follow the motion. Once they complete the spin, reward them with praise or a treat.
3. Practice “Play Dead” by signaling them to lie down first, then gently roll them on their side while saying the command. Give treats as soon as they stay in position.
4. Introduce “High Five” by holding a treat just above their head level; they’ll raise their paw naturally to reach it. Use the verbal cue for consistency.
5. Encourage them to learn “Roll Over.” Start with lying down, then guide them into rolling by luring with a treat from one side of their body to the other.
6. For “Speak,” wait for them to bark naturally, then attach the word command quickly before rewarding them consistently.
7. Teach unseen tricks like fetching tiny items by pointing at an object after saying “Fetch.” Use toys or lightweight items that are safe for small breeds like Shih Tzus.
8. Challenge them with balance-based ones like holding treats gently on their nose until you say “Okay!” This boosts patience and self-control along with motor skills.

Keep sessions short—10 minutes works best due to Shih Tzus’ shorter attention spans!

Tips for Maintaining Consistency

Stick to the same routine every day—it’s like building a habit for your pup. Everyone in your home should be on the same page, so there’s no mixed signals for your Shih Tzu.

Involving all family members in training

Training a Shih Tzu works best as a team effort. Everyone in the house should use the same commands and rules. If one person says “off” for jumping, but another says “down,” your dog may get confused.

Consistency keeps things clear and speeds up learning.

Assign simple tasks to each family member based on age or ability. A child can refill water bowls, while adults handle crate training or teaching leash manners. This helps build trust between your dog and everyone involved.

Socializing your puppy with new people becomes easier when all family members participate equally!

Sticking to a routine

Keeping a steady routine makes shih tzu training easier. Dogs thrive on structure, and routines help them know what to expect. Feed your puppy at the same times daily. Take them outside for potty breaks right after meals or naps.

Set aside time each day for practice sessions on basic commands like “sit” or “stay.” Short, regular training sessions work better than long ones. Consistent schedules also speed up housebreaking—most Shih Tzus need months to become fully housebroken.

A predictable plan keeps everyone, including your dog, on the same page!

Conclusion

Training a Shih Tzu takes patience, love, and consistency. These little dogs are smart but stubborn. Stay committed and use positive reinforcement like treats or praise. Small steps will lead to big wins with your pup.

Enjoy the journey—it’s worth it!

FAQs

1. How do I start training my Shih Tzu puppy?

Begin with positive reinforcement. Reward good behavior with treats or praise. Keep sessions short, as Shih Tzus can lose focus quickly.

2. Is crate training helpful for a Shih Tzu?

Yes, crate training helps your puppy feel secure and safe. Use the crate as a cozy space, not as punishment.

3. Can I train my Shih Tzu to use litter boxes?

Yes, many owners teach their Shih Tzus to use litter boxes indoors. Start by placing the box in an easy-to-reach spot and reinforcing proper use with rewards.

4. Should I hire a dog trainer for my Shih Tzu’s behavior issues?

If you’re struggling or need guidance, working with a dog trainer can be very helpful. They offer expert advice tailored to your dog’s needs and personality traits.