From the beaches to the hills to cozy bungalow-lined Culver City streets, raising a Shih Tzu in L.A. is a unique ride. Whether you’re tackling leash manners along the Santa Monica boardwalk or teaching crate comfort between drives on the 405, these five stellar training centers know how to bring out the best in your little lion dog.
Balanced Canine Training SoCal
One of the most recognized names in Southern California, Balanced Canine Training SoCal has earned its reputation by offering flexible programs that work beautifully for small breeds like Shih Tzus. Their offerings range from in-home lessons to one-, two-, or three-week board-and-train packages, which are especially helpful for busy Angelenos who want professional support while balancing demanding work schedules.
What makes them stand out is their balanced approach—firm when necessary but always rooted in building trust. Shih Tzu owners who use this center often report smoother leash manners, calmer indoor behavior, and improved confidence in their dogs. For families living in dense urban areas or apartments, their expertise in adjusting training to real-world city scenarios makes them a top choice.
The Dog Savant (Brett Endes)
For over three decades, The Dog Savant, led by Brett Endes, has been a household name in L.A. dog training. Known across the San Fernando Valley and beyond, Brett specializes in solving challenging behavior problems that other trainers might shy away from.
Shih Tzu parents dealing with stubborn habits—like resistance to potty training, leash pulling, or excessive barking—often find his programs especially effective. What locals love most is Brett’s straightforward, no-nonsense approach, which is practical and results-driven. He has a knack for giving owners clear, actionable steps so they can carry the training into their everyday lives. For Angelenos juggling fast-paced schedules, this kind of direct, efficient guidance is invaluable.
WuFF Dog Training
When it comes to pure positive reinforcement, WuFF Dog Training has carved out a loyal following among L.A. pet parents. Specializing in in-home private sessions and training walks, they’re especially popular in neighborhoods like West Hollywood, Silver Lake, and Koreatown.
Their methods are designed around rewards, encouragement, and relationship building—perfect for small breeds like Shih Tzus who respond better to kindness than correction. For apartment dwellers and busy professionals, WuFF Dog Training provides the flexibility of scheduling lessons around workdays while focusing on realistic city living challenges like reactivity on crowded sidewalks or anxiety in shared spaces. Angelenos often describe them as the “gentle but effective” option in local training.
Karma Dog Training
Known for their heart-centered philosophy, Karma Dog Training has become one of the most compassionate training centers in L.A. Their team of professional trainers are praised for their kindness, patience, and ability to build calm, trusting relationships between dogs and their families.
Shih Tzu owners in particular love Karma Dog’s emphasis on emotional well-being. Their classes and private lessons create a safe space for sensitive pups, teaching them to thrive through confidence instead of fear. From teaching puppies house manners to correcting more ingrained habits, Karma’s focus on positivity makes training enjoyable and less stressful for both pets and owners. Many locals say that the calm energy of Karma Dog Training reflects the lifestyle they want for their pups—balanced, gentle, and loving.
Dog Training Elite – Los Angeles
With trainers located throughout Los Angeles, Dog Training Elite – Los Angeles makes customized training accessible for families from Beverly Hills to Echo Park and beyond. Their programs cover everything from puppy basics to advanced obedience, as well as specialized training for therapy and service dog roles.
One of the standout aspects of Dog Training Elite is their in-home option, which allows families to focus on the specific needs of their Shih Tzu in their everyday environment. For busy LA households, having a trainer come to you is a major convenience. Shih Tzu owners especially appreciate the flexibility, as these small dogs can sometimes become stressed in unfamiliar environments.
Final Verdict: The LA Favorites
| Training Center | Best For |
| Balanced Canine Training SoCal | Shih Tzu-specific expertise and flexible training formats |
| WuFF Dog Training | Positive reinforcement and local, in-home sessions |
| The Dog Savant | Long-standing expertise with challenging behaviors |
| Karma Dog Training | Compassionate, trust-based methods loved by locals |
| Dog Training Elite – LA | Flexible programs with city-wide coverage |
Wrapping Up
Life in Los Angeles is busy, but with the right training center, your Shih Tzu can thrive in apartments, neighborhoods, and even at the beach. If you’re looking for small-breed expertise and tailored programs, Balanced Canine Training SoCal leads the way. For those who prefer a purely positive reinforcement approach, WuFF Dog Training offers reliable local support. And if your Shih Tzu struggles with difficult behaviors, The Dog Savant provides decades of practical experience.
No matter which part of LA you call home, these five training centers represent the best of what the city has to offer—helping your Shih Tzu become a calmer, more confident, and well-mannered companion, ready to take on the energy of Los Angeles alongside you.
