How to Get a Shih Tzu to Stop Eating its Feces

The Shih Tzu breed is calm, loving and fun to be around. But when training a Shih Tzu, they are also notoriously stubborn. One training issue you're sure to come across is the act of coprophagia--where a dog eats its own feces. Maybe it's something about the smell, but Shih Tzu are prone to do just this. But here are some ways through patience and discipline that you can put a stop to this.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Coprophagia deterrent pills
• Treats

How to get a Shih Tzu to stop eating its feces

1. If you notice your Shih Tzu trying to eat his own feces, try physically putting a stop to it by removing the dog from the area of the fecal matter or by making a noise that scares or distracts the dog into not eating the feces.

2. If this doesn't work, buy coprophagia deterrent pills from your pet store or pet aisle in a grocery or department store.

3. Grind 1/2 pill daily to mix in with your Shih Tzu's food.

4. Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu, especially if it's a puppy, while it's defecating. The deterrent won't work immediately. It might take up to a week for the deterrent to get into the dog's bile and make it less attractive.

5. The real key to successfully getting your Shih Tzu to stop eating its feces is repetitiveness. You need to develop a routine, especially for puppies, and get the dog used to following that routine. If you're strict about adhering to the routine (and use treats for the desired behavior) than the dog will soon learn what is expected. Keep following these steps until your Shih Tzu gets it.

Tips & Warnings

• The pill might have a bitter taste. Shih Tzu are notoriously stubborn--and smart--when it comes to things mixed with food. One way you might be able to get a Shih Tzu to eat the pill is by mixing it in peanut butter, cheese or a pill pocket (which can be bought at most pet stores). Patience, patience, patience. Because Shih Tzus are stubborn, you need to have patience and keep working the routine (Step 5) until they get it. That also goes with house training. They know they have to go to the bathroom. The key is getting them to go to the door when they have to go. Coprophagia deterrent works with all breeds of dogs, and the dosage is based on a dog's weight.
• Coprophagia deterrent is for animal use only, and you should use the recommended dosages based on the weight of the animal so your pet doesn't overdose.

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