Potty Train Shih Tzu: A Complete Guide
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a challenging but rewarding experience for any dog owner. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu and enjoy a cleaner home and a happier, healthier dog. In this blog post, we will explore the steps you can take to potty train your Shih Tzu, as well as some common challenges and solutions.
Understanding Your Shih Tzu’s Needs
The first step in potty training your Shih Tzu is to understand their natural habits and needs. Shih Tzus, like all dogs, have a strong instinct to relieve themselves away from their sleeping and eating areas. This means that crate training can be a useful tool in potty training, as it helps to encourage your dog to hold their bladder and bowels until they are in an appropriate place to relieve themselves.
In addition to understanding your Shih Tzu’s instincts, it is also important to consider their size and age. Shih Tzus are a small breed, and they have small bladders. This means that they will need to relieve themselves more frequently than larger breeds. Puppies also have limited bladder control, and they will need to relieve themselves more often as they grow and develop.
Establishing a Potty Training Routine
Once you understand your Shih Tzu’s needs, the next step is to establish a potty training routine. This routine should include regular feeding times, as well as regular trips outside to relieve themselves.
Here are some tips for establishing a potty training routine:
* Feed your Shih Tzu on a regular schedule. This will help you predict when they will need to relieve themselves.
* Take your Shih Tzu outside to relieve themselves first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime.
* Use a specific phrase or command, such as “go potty,” to let your Shih Tzu know that it is time to relieve themselves.
* Praise your Shih Tzu and give them a treat when they relieve themselves in the appropriate place.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a frustrating experience, and it is common to encounter challenges along the way. Here are some common challenges and solutions:
Challenge: Accidents Inside the House
Solution: Accidents are a normal part of the potty training process. If your Shih Tzu has an accident inside the house, do not punish them. Instead, clean up the mess and redouble your efforts to prevent future accidents. This may include taking your Shih Tzu outside more frequently, using a crate, or using a belly band or dog diaper.
Challenge: Difficulty Pottying on Command
Solution: If your Shih Tzu has difficulty pottying on command, be patient and persistent. Use a specific phrase or command, such as “go potty,” and wait for your Shih Tzu to relieve themselves. When they do, praise them and give them a treat. If they do not relieve themselves within a few minutes, take them back inside and try again later.
Maintaining Progress
Once your Shih Tzu is reliably potty trained, it is important to maintain their progress. This may include continuing to take them outside on a regular schedule, using a crate when you are not home, and watching for signs that they need to relieve themselves.
Signs Your Shih Tzu Needs to Relieve Themselves
Here are some signs that your Shih Tzu needs to relieve themselves:
* Sniffing and circling
* Whining or barking
* Restlessness
* Squatting
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble potty training your Shih Tzu, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.
Consider Crate Training
Crate training can be a useful tool in potty training, as it helps to encourage your Shih Tzu to hold their bladder and bowels until they are in an appropriate place to relieve themselves.
Use a Dog Door
If you are not able to take your Shih Tzu outside as often as they need, consider using a dog door. This will allow them to relieve themselves outside whenever they need to.
Consult a Professional
If you are still having trouble potty training your Shih Tzu, consider consulting a professional dog trainer. They can provide you with personalized advice and support to help you and your Shih Tzu succeed.
Looking to potty train your Shih Tzu? Check out our articles on crate training, potty schedule, and crate training for potty to help you successfully train your furry friend. Also, don’t forget to learn about the feeding habits of Shih Tzu for a well-rounded approach to caring for your beloved pet!
Conclusion
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu and enjoy a cleaner home and a happier, healthier dog. By understanding your Shih Tzu’s needs, establishing a potty training routine, and troubleshooting any challenges, you can set your Shih Tzu up for success and enjoy a happy, healthy, and fulfilling relationship.
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.
