How to Train a Shih Tzu Dog

The Shih Tzu is most likely the oldest Chinese breed still in existence. Also known as the Chinese lion dog, the Shih Tzu was commonly seen as a companion to the Tibetan monks high in the Chinese mountains. The Shih Tzu is still a popular companion dog in many counties today, although unscrupulous breeding practices have somewhat marred the breed's image. Shih Tzus are intelligent and easy to train, as long as you are persistent.

Things You'll Need

• Crate Collar Lead Treats Toys

Instructions

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1. Set up your dog's crate in a low-traffic, quiet corner of your home. Shih Tzus are calm dogs and need a space of their own to unwind and relax in. Fill her crate with her favorite bed and a few toys to keep her comfortable and occupied when she's crated.

2. Fit your dog with a collar and a lead. Shih Tzus are a small breed and can be difficult to guide without the benefit of a lead. Secure the collar around her neck, leaving enough space to fit a finger between collar and skin. Leave the lead attached and allow her to drag it around, praising her when she ignores the lead.

3. Pick up the end of the lead and follow your dog so he becomes acquainted with having someone follow him. Once he is comfortable with you behind him, hold a treat in your hand and call the dog in your direction. Apply a little resistance to the lead and continue to call the dog towards you, rewarding him when he comes quietly.

4. Teach your Shih Tzu a basic set of commands. Sit, stay, come, heel and lie down are valuable tools for any dog to learn, and will make your dog a much more enjoyable companion.

5. Hold a treat in your hand and give your Shih Tzu the command to sit. Move the treat back over your dog's head, repeating the command until the dog sits down. Immediately reward the dog by giving him the treat. Shih Tzus are a very smart breed and will learn the sit within just a few lesions with prompt rewards.

6. Add more difficult commands as your dog masters the simpler ones. Stay focused and be sure to give your dog her reward immediately so that she associates the command with the action and praise. If your dog has any faults or seems to regress in her training, slow down and rework simpler commands until she is working confidently again.

7. Take your dog on frequent trips with you to properly socialize her. The Shih Tzu is a highly social breed and does best when allowed to explore new situations and meet new faces. A quick trip to the dog park or to the store a few times a week will speed your Shih Tzu down the road to a happy, healthy companion in no time.

Tips & Warnings

• Short, frequent training sessions are best for Shih Tzus. They have short attention spans, so five to ten minute training sessions a few times per day is most effective in teaching your dog new skills.

• Never get physical if your dog disregards a command. Hitting or striking your dog will not only cause her to fear you, but can cause irreversible permanent injury.

Resources

• Shih Tzu Standard
• Small Dog Training