12 Shih Tzu Training Tips for Beginners
Bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy is like welcoming a tiny, fluffy emperor into your home. They are charming, stubborn, and incredibly smart. But if you are a first-time owner, you might quickly learn that training this little lion dog takes more patience than a Golden Retriever.
I remember my first Shih Tzu, Mochi. She looked at me with those big, dark eyes while I held a treat, and I swear she was plotting how to get it without doing a single thing I asked. Over time, I learned that training a Shih Tzu is not about force. It is about connection, consistency, and a whole lot of tiny treats.
Here are twelve beginner-friendly tips that actually work. No jargon, just real talk from someone who has been through the puppy puddles.
1. Start with Potty Training First Thing
Shih Tzus have small bladders and even smaller attention spans. Do not wait until they are six months old to start potty training. Start on day one.
Take them outside after every meal, every nap, and every play session. Keep a strict schedule. If you miss a cue, you will be cleaning up a puddle.
Use a designated spot in your yard or a pee pad indoors. Consistency is your best friend here.
2. Use High-Value Treats
Your Shih Tzu will ignore a boring biscuit. Trust me, I learned this the hard way. You need treats that smell amazing and taste even better.
Think tiny pieces of cooked chicken, cheese, or freeze-dried liver. Break them into pea-sized bits. This breed is food-motivated, but only for the good stuff.
Keep the treats hidden in your pocket. Let them wonder what you have. That mystery keeps them focused on you.
3. Keep Training Sessions Short and Sweet
Shih Tzus get bored fast. A five-minute session is perfect. Ten minutes is pushing it. If you see them yawn or look away, stop.
End each session on a positive note. Even if they only did one good sit, praise them and give a treat. They will remember that training is fun, not a chore.
You can do several short sessions throughout the day. Morning, after lunch, and before dinner works great.
4. Teach “Look at Me” First
Before you teach sit or stay, teach them to focus on you. Hold a treat near your eyes and say “look.” When they make eye contact, click or say “yes” and give the treat.
This simple trick changes everything. A Shih Tzu that looks at you is a Shih Tzu that is ready to learn. It also helps with distractions like squirrels or passing dogs.
Practice this in a quiet room first. Then slowly add distractions.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement Only
Shih Tzus are sensitive. Yelling or punishing them will only make them shut down or become stubborn. They will not learn faster.
Instead, reward the behaviors you want. Ignore the ones you do not. If they jump up, turn your back. When they sit calmly, give them a treat.
This builds trust. A happy Shih Tzu learns faster than a scared one.
6. Crate Training is a Lifesaver
I know, crates look like cages. But for a Shih Tzu, a crate is a cozy den. It helps with potty training and gives them a safe space to relax.
Make the crate inviting. Add a soft blanket and a chew toy. Never use it as punishment. Feed them inside the crate so they associate it with good things.
Start with short periods. Close the door for five minutes while you are nearby. Gradually increase the time.
7. Socialize Early and Often
Shih Tzus can be wary of strangers and other dogs if not socialized early. Start before they are 16 weeks old.
Invite calm friends over. Let them give treats. Take your puppy to pet-friendly stores or quiet parks. Keep experiences positive.
If your puppy seems scared, do not force it. Go at their pace. A confident Shih Tzu is a joy to be around.
8. Master the “Leave It” Command
Shih Tzus love to pick up things they should not. Socks, crumbs, mysterious objects on the sidewalk. Teaching “leave it” can save their life.
Start with a treat in your closed fist. Let them sniff and lick. Say “leave it.” The moment they pull back, open your hand and give the treat.
Practice with different items. Eventually, they will learn to ignore things on the ground when you say the cue.
9. Be Patient with Stubborn Moments
Shih Tzus were bred to be companions, not working dogs. They will test your patience. Some days they will act like they have never heard the word “sit” before.
That is normal. Do not get frustrated. Take a deep breath and try again later. Sometimes they just need a break.
Remember, they are not being naughty on purpose. They are just being a Shih Tzu.
10. Use a Gentle Harness, Not a Collar
Shih Tzus have delicate tracheas. Pulling on a collar can cause coughing or injury. A harness is safer and gives you better control.
Choose a harness that clips in the front to discourage pulling. Let your puppy wear it around the house first to get used to the feeling.
Walking should be a pleasant experience for both of you. A harness makes it easier.
11. Practice Grooming as Part of Training
Your Shih Tzu will need regular brushing, nail trims, and baths. Do not wait until they are grown to start. Introduce grooming tools early.
Let them sniff the brush. Touch their paws gently while giving treats. Make grooming a calm, positive routine.
This prevents future struggles. A Shih Tzu that tolerates grooming is much easier to care for.
12. Reward Calm Behavior
Shih Tzus can be yappy if they learn that barking gets attention. Instead, reward them when they are quiet and relaxed.
If they are lying calmly on their bed, toss a treat their way. If they stop barking at the doorbell, praise them softly.
Over time, they will learn that being calm is what earns them good things. It makes your home much more peaceful.
Conclusion
Training a Shih Tzu is not about perfection. It is about building a bond with a little dog who has a big personality. Some days will be easy. Other days, you will wonder why you ever thought you could train a stubborn fluffball.
But stick with it. Be kind, be consistent, and always keep treats handy. Your Shih Tzu will learn, and you will grow closer along the way. They are worth every bit of effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to potty train a Shih Tzu?
It varies. Most Shih Tzus take 4 to 6 months to be fully reliable. Some take longer. Consistency and a strict schedule are key. Do not give up if there are accidents.
Are Shih Tzus easy to train?
They are not the easiest breed, but they are not the hardest either. They are smart but stubborn. With patience and positive reinforcement, they learn well. Just keep sessions short and fun.
Can Shih Tzus learn tricks?
Absolutely. They can learn sit, stay, roll over, and even fetch. They enjoy learning if the rewards are good. Start with basic commands and work up to fun tricks.
What is the best age to start training a Shih Tzu?
Start as early as 8 weeks old. Puppies can learn simple commands like sit and look. Early training sets good habits. Socialization is also most effective before 16 weeks.
How do I stop my Shih Tzu from barking at everything?
Teach the “quiet” command. Reward them when they stop barking. Identify triggers and manage them. Sometimes a tired Shih Tzu barks less, so make sure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
