Shih Tzu Puppy Training Tips

Puppy potty training. It can be a real headache, can't it? You love your new Shih Tzu puppy more than anything, but those little accidents on the floor can be incredibly frustrating. The good news is, you're not failing. The key to successful training isn't magic; it's a matter of understanding your puppy's mind.

Shih Tzus are smart little cookies. They just need you to be a little more consistent, and maybe a little more patient, than they are. Once you unlock their little brains, they are so eager to please.

Let's get into some simple, no stress Shih Tzu puppy training tips to help you both get on the same page.

1. Positive Reinforcement is Everything

This is the big one. Shih Tzus are sensitive souls. They do not respond well to yelling or harsh punishment. In fact, that'll probably just make them retreat and hide.

So, ditch the "no's" and focus on the "yes's." When your puppy does something you like like sitting when you ask or going potty outside you have to get super excited! Give them a small treat and lots of praise. They live for your approval, and that's your secret weapon.

2. Keep Training Sessions Short and Sweet

Remember that short attention span? It's real. A Shih Tzu puppy can't focus on something for half an hour. That's just asking for trouble.

• Aim for 5-10 minute sessions, a few times a day.

• Focus on one thing at a time. Don't try to teach "sit," "stay," and "rollover" all in the same session.

• End on a good note. As soon as they do something right, give them a reward and finish the session. That way, they’ll be excited for the next one.

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3. Be Consistent (and I mean really consistent!)

You might be thinking, "I am consistent!" But are you? It's so easy to slip up. But your puppy learns best through repetition.
For a command like "sit," for example, everyone in the family needs to use the same word, and the same hand signal, every single time. And that includes when you’re tired or distracted. If you want them to sit, always say the word and don’t give up until they do it. This is how they learn what you want.

4. Socialize, Socialize, Socialize!

This isn't just about making them friendly. It’s about building their confidence. A well-socialized puppy is less likely to be fearful or anxious later on, which helps with everything from barking to house training.

• Take them everywhere. As soon as your vet gives you the okay, expose them to different sounds, smells, and people.

• Puppy classes are awesome. They're a great way for your puppy to meet other dogs and for you to learn from a pro.

Training a puppy can feel like a lot of work, and it is! But with these shih tzu puppy training tips, you'll lay the foundation for a wonderful relationship. The reward is so worth it, believe me.