Having a Shih Tzu is like spending a great time with your best buddy. Shih Tzus are lovely dogs mostly known for their adorable, affectionate, and calm nature. Also, they are very intelligent and keen to grab their owner’s attention. But sometimes they act a bit stubborn, especially when it comes to training. That’s why it is quite challenging and time-consuming to train them.
So, you have to be patient and calm while training your Shih Tzu. Most importantly, remember that Shih Tzus are a cute little breed who requires love and care. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to train your Shih Tzu and how to well-behaved them.
What Is The Best Time To Train A Shih Tzu?

There is no fixed time or age to start training a Shih Tzu but it’s better to train them as early as possible. Most Shih Tzu owners start to train their Shih Tzu when they are three weeks old. Usually, Shih Tzus are obedient to their owners, so it would be easier to teach them anything. Also, baby Shih Tzus are smarter than we thought and they eagerly wait for their owner’s order.
As they are very intelligent and sometimes independent dogs, they love to get rewards. When you start their training try to positively handle them. Also, they are quick learners, so if you give them gifts and rewards they will be encouraged more to follow your command.
House Training and Potty Training
When you keep a pet and start to train them your first priority should be potty training them. It’s essential because Shih Tzus are small breeds so they have tiny bladders. They need frequent bathroom breaks to pee or potty. So, make them familiar with their litter box or the place you select for them. And make sure that every time they go to the same place to do potty or pee, so that it will be their habit.
Also, give them rewards when they obey your command. It’ll be more helpful to train them because they love to get treats. If accidentally your Shih Tzu leaves their stool in another location, keep patience. Don’t punish them, instead give them more time to learn.
Teaching Basic Commands
Teach your Shih Tzu some basic commands like sit, stay, come, down, leave it, etc. These are essential and daily chores that your Shih Tzu needs to learn. Hold a treat in your hand, move around their head and tell them to sit. Once they obey your command give them their treat so that they will be encouraged to do more.
Similarly, teach them to stay, come, and lay down. Point your finger at the place where your Shih Tzu will lay down and stay until you give them the next command. Sometimes, your lovely Shih Tzu may pick up any unwanted objects. Tell them to leave it and give them a treat for obeying you. Make a schedule and constantly command them every day so that they can learn quickly.
Socialization and Behavior Management
It’s very important to make your Shih Tzu socialize and be well-behaved to others. Usually, Shih Tzus are friendly dogs but sometimes they can be aggressive if you don’t socialize them properly. Take your Shih Tzu to the parks, pet-friendly cafes, or car rides. Also, let them play with other pets or people so that they will be more familiar with them. Don’t forget to reward them for their good interactions.
If they bark or try to bite anyone, don’t panic, make them calm with a positive tone. Give them commands like “leave it” or “don’t bite” so they stop their action. If you handle them gently they will obey you every time. Because Shih Tzus usually can’t cope up with harsh discipline.
Leash Training and Outdoor Etiquettes
Most owners enjoy walking with their adorable companion Shih Tzus. So, before you take your Shih Tzu outside they should get leash training. Let them get used to wearing the collar and leash. Train them with these things indoors first, so that when you go outside with them they are comfortable with it. Start with a small walk in quiet areas.
At the beginning it’s better to avoid busy roads because they may feel uncomfortable. Also, train them not to chase other dogs. If they obey your command and walk without doing any hassle, give them rewards. That will help to keep their interest to learn and build trust in you.
Final Words
Shih Tzus are gentle, intelligent, and lovely nature dogs. But they also need training and grooming to adjust in any environment. It’s better to start training your Shih Tzu at an early age. The most important thing is you have to be patient during this training period. Also, your positive attitude makes them more comfortable to learn.
Shih Tzus are kind of attention seekers, they love to be the center of their owner’s attention. These little breed dogs are friendly and affectionate so everyone wants them as companions. Finally, grow them well-mannered and enjoy the training journey.