Shih Tzu Training: The Basics for a Harmonious Life Together
Congratulations! You have chosen one of the most charming, loving, and loyal companions the dog world has to offer. When it comes to Shih Tzu training, many new dog owners face an exciting challenge. The "Lion Dog," once bred in the imperial palaces of China, brings not only a majestic appearance but also a significant amount of personality.
The key to a relaxed daily routine lies in understanding the breed at its core. A Shih Tzu wants to please, but they also like to question the purpose of an exercise. With the right balance of loving consistency, positive reinforcement, and a dash of humor, you will shape your fluffy companion into a confident everyday partner. Before we dive into the practice, I recommend taking a look at the detailed Shih Tzu breed profile to get to know all the specific characteristics of your new family member in detail.
The Shih Tzu as a Student: Character and Trainability
As an experienced dog trainer, I am often asked: "Is a Shih Tzu difficult to train?" The answer is: No, but they require a different approach than, for example, a German Shepherd. In the official breed assessment, the Shih Tzu receives 3 out of 5 points for trainability. This means: they are absolutely capable and willing to learn, but they are not workaholics who blindly follow orders.
These dogs were bred for centuries purely as companion dogs (Toy Group). Their job was not to herd sheep or track game, but to keep the Emperors of China company. This explains two essential character traits:
- The Shadow Effect: A Shih Tzu loves their humans dearly (Family Friendliness 5/5) and prefers to follow them every step of the way. You can use this following instinct wonderfully in their training.
- The Charming Stubbornness: Sometimes the Shih Tzu shows a certain degree of strong-headedness. They might ask themselves: "What's in it for me?" If you keep the training exciting and motivate them correctly, they will participate with enthusiasm.
Since their energy level is relatively low at 2 out of 5 points, you don't need hours of exhausting training sessions. Short, crisp, and fun sessions of five to ten minutes are ideal for their attention span.
Starting Small: Shih Tzu Puppy Training
Shih Tzu puppy training begins the moment the little ball of fur moves in with you. The first 16 weeks of life are the so-called imprinting and socialization phase. Whatever your puppy gets to know positively during this time will not scare them later on.
Housebreaking: Patience Pays Off
Small dogs have small bladders. This is an anatomical fact that you must consider during housebreaking. A Shih Tzu puppy needs to go outside after every nap, after eating, after playing, and initially generally about every two hours. It is best to carry the puppy to their designated spot at first to avoid accidents on the way. Praise them excessively with a gentle voice and a small treat when they have done their business outside. Never scold them if something goes wrong inside – just wipe it away without comment.
Learning Bite Inhibition
Like all puppies, the Shih Tzu explores the world with their mouth. Their sharp milk teeth can be painful during play. If your puppy bites too hard while playing, stop the game immediately. A short, high-pitched "Ouch!" signals that it hurt. Turn away from them for a few seconds. This way, they quickly learn that rough behavior means the end of the fun. Always offer plenty of chew toys instead.
Socialization in the First 16 Weeks
Although the Shih Tzu has an urban suitability rating of 5/5, they still need to get used to loud noises, strangers, and other animals in peace. Show them the world at their own pace. Sit on a park bench with them and let them observe the surroundings. Early contact with other well-socialized dogs is also important. The Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH) advises visiting well-managed puppy playgroups to promote intraspecific communication from the start.
The Most Important Shih Tzu Commands for Everyday Life
A well-trained dog enjoys more freedom. This also applies to small dogs. The basic Shih Tzu commands ensure that you can navigate through everyday life safely and relaxed.
Sit and Down
The "Sit" command is usually learned by a Shih Tzu in no time. Hold a treat directly in front of their nose and slowly lead it in an arc over their head towards the back. Their gaze will follow the treat, and their bottom will lower almost automatically to the floor. As soon as they sit, say "Sit" happily and give them the reward.
With the "Down" command, small dogs sometimes struggle a bit more because they are already close to the ground. From the sitting position, lead the treat slowly down between their front paws and then pull it flat along the ground towards you. When they lie down, give the command "Down" followed by the reward.
Stay: Promoting Impulse Control
Because the Shih Tzu prefers to never let their owner out of their sight, the "Stay" command is often difficult for them. Start in very small steps. Have them sit, say "Stay," take only half a step back, and immediately go back to them. Praise them if they stayed put. Extend the distance and duration only by millimeters over the course of weeks. Practice this initially without any distractions in the living room.
The Reliable Recall
A functioning recall is your life insurance for the dog. Use their natural following instinct! Playfully run a few steps away from them, crouch down, open your arms, and call "Here!" or their name cheerfully. When they come running towards you with joy, throw an absolute party – jackpot treats, cuddles, toys. The recall must mean the absolute best thing in the world for your Shih Tzu.
Breed-Specific Challenges in Shih Tzu Training
Every breed brings its own little hurdles. If you know these in advance, you can avoid a lot of frustration during Shih Tzu training.
Medical Training and Grooming
This is probably the most important point in training this breed. The grooming effort for a Shih Tzu is 5 out of 5 points. The dense, smooth, and long topcoat without undercoat is prone to matting if not brushed daily. Staying still on the grooming table or lap must be systematically trained. Start in puppyhood with a soft brush. Brush for only a few seconds, praise them, and give them a treat. Slowly increase the time. Touching the paws, checking the ears, and showing the teeth should also be practiced as playful commands. The Bundestierärztekammer (Federal Chamber of Veterinarians) regularly emphasizes how important so-called medical training is to save the dog (and the vet) stress during routine examinations.
The Short Nose (Brachycephaly)
The Shih Tzu belongs to the breeds with a shortened facial skull. This means for training: avoid extreme heat and physical overexertion. Move training sessions in midsummer to the early morning or late evening hours. Always use a well-fitting, soft harness to lead your dog and never a collar, to protect the sensitive larynx and airways.
Advanced Training: Engagement for Smart Minds
Your Shih Tzu has mastered the basic commands and is past the puppy stage? Then it's time for advanced training. Even though they are not high-performance athletes, they love mental challenges.
- Trick Dogging: Shih Tzus are predestined for small tricks. "Give paw," "sit up" (if medically safe for the back), a "roll," or "high five" are learned incredibly quickly. This strengthens the bond and provides mental exercise.
- Nose Work and Search Games: Hide their favorite toy or small treats in the house or in flat grass. Dogs see the world through their noses. Searching requires high concentration and makes your Shih Tzu tired and satisfied in a healthy way.
- Intelligence Toys: Snuffle mats or wooden boards where the dog has to open flaps or move cones to get to their food are perfect for rainy days.
Avoiding Common Mistakes in Dog Training
Even the most loving dog owners make mistakes. Especially with such adorable companions as the Shih Tzu, there are classic pitfalls.
The biggest mistake is the so-called "Small Dog Syndrome." Because the Shih Tzu is small and cute, they are often allowed behaviors that would never be tolerated in a 40-kilo dog. Jumping up, constant barking at the door, or growling on the sofa are often dismissed as "cute." But for the dog, a lack of leadership means massive stress. They feel compelled to take control of the house because, from their perspective, you aren't doing it. Treat your Shih Tzu like a "big" dog: set clear, fair boundaries. If the sofa is off-limits, that applies always – even if they look at you heart-meltingly with their large, dark button eyes.
Another mistake is inconsistency. Dogs learn through repetition and reliable structures. If "Drop it" means they have to let go of the shoe today, but tomorrow you just shrug your shoulders, the dog won't know where they stand. Stay fair but firm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a Shih Tzu suitable as a dog for beginners?
Yes, absolutely. The Shih Tzu is considered an excellent dog for beginners. Their friendly, open nature and close bond with humans make training quite pleasant. However, it is important that beginners also deal intensively with the enormous grooming requirements (daily brushing) and a consistent basic structure.
How long can a Shih Tzu stay home alone?
Since the Shih Tzu was primarily bred as a companion dog, they love nothing more than being with their humans. Staying alone is often harder for them than for other breeds. It must be built up in minutes and very carefully starting in puppyhood. In general, no dog, even a well-trained Shih Tzu, should be left alone for more than 4 to 5 hours regularly.
Why is my Shih Tzu so stubborn?
What we humans often call "stubborn" is usually a mix of intelligence and lack of motivation. The Shih Tzu does not follow commands blindly. If your dog switches to stubborn mode, check your training: Is it too boring? Are you too tense? Is the reward not attractive enough? Switching to higher-quality treats or a more exciting toy often works wonders.
How do I get my Shih Tzu used to other dogs?
The Shih Tzu is naturally relatively compatible with other dogs (4/5 points). Good puppy socialization is the key. Let them have controlled contact with confident, calm dogs of all sizes early on. When meeting very large and boisterous dogs, make sure your Shih Tzu is not run over or injured; block boisterous approaches and offer your dog protection with you without immediately snatching them up in a panic.
Conclusion: Towards Your Dream Dog with HonestDog
Shih Tzu training is a wonderful journey that welds you and your dog together into an unbeatable team. Always remember: this little dog from imperial China wants to accompany you, love you, and share their life with you. With positive reinforcement, plenty of patience, and the necessary consistency, you will be able to guide their little quirks with a smile. The most important training remains medical training and grooming – if you master that, nothing stands in the way of a happy dog life.
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