Teach Shih Tzu Loose Leash Training
Shih Tzus are small, charming dogs that can make great companions. However, they can also be notoriously difficult to walk on a leash, often pulling and tugging in an attempt to explore their surroundings. Teaching your Shih Tzu loose leash walking is essential for both their safety and your sanity. Not only will it make walks more enjoyable, but it will also help to reinforce your role as pack leader. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps you can take to teach your Shih Tzu loose leash walking.
Understanding the Problem
The first step in teaching your Shih Tzu loose leash walking is understanding why they pull on the leash in the first place. Shih Tzus are naturally curious and independent dogs, and they may pull on the leash because they want to explore their surroundings. They may also pull because they are excited or because they are trying to assert their dominance.
It’s important to remember that pulling on the leash is a normal behavior for Shih Tzus, and it’s not something that they are doing to deliberately disobey you. However, it’s still a behavior that needs to be addressed, as it can make walks stressful and even dangerous for both you and your dog.
Choosing the Right Equipment
The right equipment can make a big difference when it comes to teaching your Shih Tzu loose leash walking. A standard flat collar and leash may not be enough to stop your Shih Tzu from pulling, so you may want to consider using a different type of collar or harness.
One option is a front-clip harness, which attaches to the leash at the front of the dog’s chest. This type of harness can help to redirect your Shih Tzu’s attention back to you when they start to pull, making it easier for you to guide them and keep them at a loose leash.
Another option is a head collar, which fits around your Shih Tzu’s muzzle and head. This type of collar can be very effective in stopping pulling, as it gives you more control over your dog’s head and body. However, it’s important to note that some dogs may find head collars uncomfortable or even scary, so it’s important to introduce them slowly and make sure your Shih Tzu is comfortable wearing one.
Introducing the Collar or Harness
It’s important to introduce your Shih Tzu to their new collar or harness slowly and positively. Allow them to sniff and explore the new equipment, and reward them with treats and praise when they remain calm and relaxed. You may want to practice putting the collar or harness on and off a few times before you start training, so that your Shih Tzu gets used to the process.
Getting Your Shih Tzu Used to the Leash
Once your Shih Tzu is comfortable wearing their new collar or harness, it’s time to introduce the leash. Start by attaching the leash to the collar or harness and allowing your Shih Tzu to walk around your home or yard. Practice rewarding them with treats and praise when they walk at a loose leash, and gently guide them back to a loose leash if they start to pull.
Starting Training
Once your Shih Tzu is comfortable wearing their collar or harness and walking on the leash in your home or yard, it’s time to start training. Start in a quiet, distraction-free environment, such as your living room or yard. Keep training sessions short and positive, and always end on a good note.
Using a Clicker or Marker Word
A clicker or marker word can be a useful tool in training your Shih Tzu loose leash walking. A clicker is a small device that makes a distinct clicking sound, while a marker word is a word or phrase that you use to mark the desired behavior. Both the clicker and marker word can be used to let your Shih Tzu know that they have done something right, and they can help to reinforce the behavior you are trying to teach.
Rewarding Loose Leash Walking
The key to teaching your Shih Tzu loose leash walking is to reward them for walking at a loose leash. This means that you should only give them treats and praise when they are walking by your side without pulling on the leash. If they start to pull, stop walking and wait for them to come back to a loose leash before continuing.
Guiding Your Shih Tzu
In addition to rewarding loose leash walking, you will also need to guide your Shih Tzu as they learn. This means that you should use the leash to gently guide them back to a loose leash if they start to pull. You can also use the leash to redirect their attention back to you if they become distracted.
Moving to More Distracting Environments
Once your Shih Tzu is comfortable walking on a loose leash in a quiet, distraction-free environment, it’s time to start introducing distractions. Start by training in a slightly more distracting environment, such as a quiet park or street. Gradually increase the level of distractions as your Shih Tzu becomes more confident and proficient in loose leash walking.
Maintaining Loose Leash Walking
Once your Shih Tzu has learned loose leash walking, it’s important to maintain the behavior. This means continuing to reward them for walking at a loose leash, and being consistent in your training. If your Shih Tzu starts to pull on the leash, stop walking and guide them back to a loose leash.
Looking to teach your Shih Tzu how to walk on a loose leash? Check out our articles on the importance of leash training, how to train your Shih Tzu to walk on a leash, tips to stop biting behavior, a comprehensive leash training guide, and a helpful crate training guide for your furry friend!
Conclusion
Teaching your Shih Tzu loose leash walking is an important part of being a responsible dog owner. Not only will it make walks more enjoyable, but it will also help to reinforce your role as pack leader. With patience, consistency, and the right training techniques, you can teach your Shih Tzu to walk on a loose leash and enjoy stress-free walks together.
Britta Thygesen
A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make DogCareHacks a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.
