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Shih Tzus are a popular dog that are bred to be loyal and loving companions.
If you’re interested in adopting a Shih Tzu you might be curious to know: Are Shih Tzus good pets?
In this article, I will cover some key information about Shih Tzus to give you a better understanding of the breed and whether it’s the right fit for you.
Keep reading to find out more.
Contents
Do Shih Tzus bark a lot?
Yes, as a breed, Shi Tzus have the tendency to bark frequently. They especially love to bark at the front door when visitors arrive, greeting your guest as if they were saying please give me attention!
For this reason, training your Shih Tzus from a young age is important to minimize their barking. To address barking, you must catch your dog in the act and let them know via clear communication that what they are doing is wrong. While barking is normal, you can teach your dog that unnecessarily barking is not good behavior and will not be rewarded.
There are a few methods you can use to teach your Shih Tzu not to bark. However, my favorite method to use is the ignore method.
The ignore method
Step 1: A common reason your Shih Tzu may be barking at you is to get your attention. In this method, you have to take away the reaction that they are trying to achieve by barking at you. You must have patience and remain strong, ignoring them until they stop.
Step 2: Next, it’s time to prompt your dog to bark during your training sessions. To do this, you will need something to trigger your Shih Tzu to bark, like the sound of a door bell.
Step 3: When your Shih Tzu starts barking, turn your back on them and ignore them. They will likely keep barking, but make sure that you remain turned away from them while they continue.
Step 4: Be patient and wait. Eventually, your Shih Tzu will give up on barking. Only turn around once they have stopped barking. Praise your Shih Tzu for being quiet with some affection. Having dog treats on hand is always helpful, too!
Step 5: Repeat the process and keep practicing. Prompt your pup to bark and repeat the same steps. With consistent training, eventually your Shih Tzu will realize that barking is not the right avenue to receive the attention that they want. With patience and a proper routine, you can train your dog not to bark for attention.
Consistency is key when it comes to training your dog, so make sure whichever method you use, that you are taking the time to regularly train them. The best way to ensure that they learn not to unnecessarily bark is to start training them from when they’re small.
Do Shih Tzus like to cuddle?
Yes, Shih Tzus are an incredibly affectionate breed and like to cuddle. Shih Tzus are a breed known for their companionship and incomparable cuddly affection, and this is one of the many reasons that makes them such great family pets!
If you’re looking for a cute little companion to cuddle, Shih Tzus are one of the best breeds you can invest in. These dogs make it their purpose to be the best company for their owners. As a result, Shih Tzus are known to bond fast with their owners, and often rest at their feet or curl up on their lap.
Shih Tzus are full of love and eager to share it with anyone who passes their way. However, it’s important to note that Shih Tzus also expect love in return, and can become moody when they don’t receive it. They’re not shy when it comes to asking for what they want, whether it’s a treat or a spot beside you on the couch. So be prepared to shower this breed with love!
Are Shih Tzus easy to potty train?
Like any other puppy, Potty training a Shih Tzu puppy takes time and patience.
To potty train your Shih Tzu puppy, there are a variety of different methods you can take. However, having a designated area where they go potty in your yard is a very effective way to make them associate going to the toilet with outside.
Step 1: To start off, choose an area in your yard where you would like your Shih Tzu puppy to go potty every time he needs to go.
Step 2: Take your Shih Tzu to that special potty area every time you take him outside to go potty. Avoid letting him play in the area, as you need him to associate this spot with going to the toilet. Wait patiently and start using a command such as ‘go potty’ each time you take your puppy to that area.
Step 3: Take your puppy outside regularly, even if they’re not showing signs that they need the toilet. Your Shih Tzu puppy should be able to hold his bladder only about one hour for each month he is old. This means if your dog is three months old, he can hold it for about three hours. Avoid making him wait any longer to go outside.
Step 4: Each time your Shih Tzu wakes up from a nap, take him to his special potty spot so he can go potty. Again, always avoid letting him play in this area.
Step 5: Be sure to take your Shih Tzu to his potty area after every meal. Always avoid giving him any attention or allowing him to play if he doesn’t seem interested in going to the toilet.
Step 6: Reward your pup with treats! Any time he goes to the toilet, positively reinforce him with treats and praise. If he has an accident indoors, make sure you redirect him to his designated potty area. Be sure to set him up to succeed by taking him out often and reward him for going to the toilet until he’s learned!
