Take Your Shih Tzu’s Agility to the Next Level

As a Shih Tzu owner, you know that these adorable dogs are full of energy and love to play. Why not channel that energy into something productive and beneficial for both of you? Advanced agility training techniques can provide physical and mental benefits for your furry friend, while also strengthening the bond between you. But where do you begin? What equipment do you need? And how do you ensure your furry friend stays safe during training? In this article, we’ll explore the world of advanced agility training for Shih Tzu step-by-step, providing tips, techniques, and tricks for you and your dog to master. So get ready to boost your pup’s confidence, coordination, and speed with these fun and challenging exercises.

Benefits of Agility Training for Shih Tzu

Agility training for Shih Tzu is much more than just fun and games, it is a fantastic way to improve the overall health and well-being of your furry companion. Shih Tzu agility training can provide both physical and mental benefits that can have a positive impact on their quality of life. Regular agility training can help keep them physically fit, mentally stimulated, and improve their behavior. It also provides an opportunity for bonding with your pet in a fun, active way. Let’s explore the benefits of agility training for your Shih Tzu. To learn more about how to train your Shih Tzu with agility, check out this agility training guide.

Physical Benefits

Part of article: Physical Benefits

Agility training is highly recommended for Shih Tzu because it provides numerous physical benefits. Here are some of the advantages of including agility training in your Shih Tzu’s exercise routine:

1. Improved Stamina: Agility training requires a lot of running and jumping, which helps to build your Shih Tzu’s endurance and increase their stamina levels. This is especially important for Shih Tzu who are prone to getting overweight and lazy.

2. Increased Flexibility: Agility training involves a lot of twisting and turning, which helps to improve your Shih Tzu’s flexibility and range of motion. It can also help to prevent injuries by increasing your Shih Tzu’s ability to move freely.

3. Stronger Muscles: Agility training requires your Shih Tzu to use their muscles in ways they don’t typically use them in regular exercise. This helps to strengthen their muscles, including their core muscles which are crucial for proper posture and balance.

4. Better Coordination: Agility training requires your Shih Tzu to perform a combination of movements that require coordination of their whole body. With regular training, your Shih Tzu’s coordination and balance will improve, helping to prevent falls and injuries.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that agility training has become such a popular activity for Shih Tzu owners. But it’s important to note that while agility training is beneficial, it can also be harmful if not done correctly. So, it’s important to ensure that you’re following proper training techniques and using the right equipment. You can read more about agility equipment for Shih Tzu here (link to article on agility equipment for Shih Tzu). And if you’re just getting started with agility training, be sure to read our article on preparing your Shih Tzu for agility training (link to article on preparing Shih Tzu for agility training) to avoid common mistakes.

Mental Benefits

Agility training is not just a physical activity; it also has significant mental benefits for Shih Tzu. Here are some of the ways agility training can help sharpen your furry friend’s brain:

• Improved focus: Agility training requires intense concentration and focus, which can improve your dog’s ability to focus on tasks in other areas of life.
• Increased confidence: As your Shih Tzu masters new skills and obstacles, they will become more confident in their abilities.
• Reduced anxiety: Many dogs suffer from anxiety, but agility training can help reduce this by providing them with a structured and positive outlet for their energy.
• Enhanced problem-solving skills: Agility courses are designed to challenge dogs mentally as well as physically. Your Shih Tzu will have to learn how to navigate new obstacles and determine the best way to tackle each one.
• Bonding with their handler: Agility training involves a lot of teamwork between dogs and their handlers. This can help deepen your bond with your Shih Tzu and improve their overall obedience.

To ensure that your Shih Tzu receives all of these mental benefits, it is essential to provide them with the right type of training. Avoid the common mistakes made by pet owners when it comes to Shih Tzu agility training by exploring our guide to Shih Tzu Agility Mistakes. You can also check out our comprehensive guide on how to Train Shih Tzu Agility step-by-step.

Preparation for Advanced Agility Training

As you embark on your journey towards advanced agility training for your beloved Shih Tzu, it’s crucial to understand the essential steps that must be taken to prepare your dog for success. Without proper preparation, your pup may experience frustration, injury, or even fail to master essential skills. In this section, we will explore the critical components of preparing your Shih Tzu for advanced agility training so that you can nurture your pet’s talents to their fullest potential. Let’s dive in!

Basic Obedience Training

Having basic obedience training is crucial before starting advanced agility training with your Shih Tzu. This ensures that your pup is able to follow commands and is comfortable with basic movements, making it easier for them to learn more complex agility skills. Here are some basic obedience skills you should focus on before moving on to advanced agility training techniques:

By incorporating these basic obedience commands into your Shih Tzu’s training regimen, they will become more responsive and attentive to your commands during agility training. They’ll also learn to trust you more, making the training process smoother and more enjoyable for both of you.

Physical Preparation

To prepare your Shih Tzu for advanced agility training, physical preparation is crucial. You want to ensure that your furry companion’s body is strong enough to handle the intense workouts that advanced agility training requires. Here are a few tips on how to physically prepare your Shih Tzu for advanced agility training:

• Daily Exercise Routine: Before starting with advanced agility training, it’s important to ensure that your Shih Tzu is already physically active on a daily basis. This can include activities such as walking, running, and playing fetch. Regular exercise will help to build their stamina and endurance, making it easier for them to handle the intense agility training sessions.
• Weight Management: Being overweight puts your Shih Tzu at a higher risk of injury, especially during advanced agility training exercises. It’s important to ensure that your furry friend is at a healthy weight. Your veterinarian can help you to determine the ideal weight for your Shih Tzu and recommend a healthy diet and exercise routine to help them reach and maintain their ideal weight.
• Strength Training: Help your Shih Tzu build their strength through exercises such as sit-ups, push-ups, and squats. Leash walking up and down hills can be especially beneficial in building your Shih Tzu’s leg muscles.
• Breathing Exercises: Proper breathing is essential during physical activity. Training your Shih Tzu to breathe properly during exercise can help them perform better and prevent injuries. Train your dog to exhale forcefully through their nose during exercise.

Remember, it’s important to start with the basics and gradually progress to more advanced exercises. As your Shih Tzu’s physical abilities improve, you can increase the intensity and duration of the workouts. By following these physical preparation tips, you’ll help your Shih Tzu to be physically ready for the challenges of advanced agility training.

Equipment Needed

To begin with advanced agility training techniques for Shih Tzu, it’s important to have the right equipment. Not only will this keep your furry friend safe, but it will also ensure that they have the best possible training experience. Below is a list of essential equipment for advanced agility training sessions:

As you may have noticed, each piece of equipment serves a different purpose in advanced agility training for Shih Tzu. It’s important to gradually introduce each obstacle and adjust the difficulty level to match your dog’s skill level. By doing so, your Shih Tzu will have a safe and enjoyable time while also improving their physical and mental fitness.

Advanced Training Techniques

As your Shih Tzu’s agility skills progress and they master the basics, it’s time to take their training to the next level with some advanced techniques. These exercises require more agility, strength, and control from your furry friend, but the rewards are well worth the effort. From jumping over hurdles to weaving through poles, your pooch will be challenged both physically and mentally. Let’s explore some of the advanced agility training techniques and how to safely and effectively teach them to your Shih Tzu.

Advanced Jumps and Hurdles

One of the most exciting parts of advanced agility training for Shih Tzu is the jumps and hurdles course. This kind of training refines their athletic abilities and challenges them to think on their feet. These activities help them build focus, coordination, and acrobatic skills.

Here are some advanced jumps and hurdle techniques your Shih Tzu can practice:

Make sure to use appropriate training techniques that focus on positive reinforcement to ensure success. As you and your Shih Tzu progress, you can adjust the height and distance between jumps to continue challenging them.

Advanced Weave Poles

To improve your Shih Tzu’s agility skills, incorporating advanced weave poles to your training can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Weave poles require your dog to slalom through a set of upright poles, testing their coordination and ability to follow commands.

Here are some advanced weave pole techniques to try:

• Rhythm Changes: This technique requires varying the distance between the weave poles, changing the rhythm of the weave entry, and practicing entries with multiple slopes. This will require your Shih Tzu to be alert and adaptive to the changing weave patterns.
• Off-side Entries: Training your dog to enter the weave from the side opposite to the one they usually do can be challenging. This may involve training them to weave both from the left and the right side.
• Obstacle Discrimination: Here, you will integrate jumps or tunnels while your Shih Tzu is weaving. This technique will test their ability to stay focused on the weave poles while also following commands to complete an additional obstacle.
• Proofing: To proof the weave poles, you will train your Shih Tzu to maintain their focus in the midst of diverse distractions. This may mean adding overhead obstacles or distractions that they generally find challenging to navigate, such as food or toys.
• Back-chaining: This involves training your Shih Tzu starting from the end to the entrance of the weave pole set. This technique, unlike the traditional training method, which starts from the front, will require your Shih Tzu to quickly and efficiently turn and change direction.

It is essential to remember that advanced weave pole training should not be rushed, and your Shih Tzu should have a solid foundation of basic obedience and physical readiness before attempting. During training sessions, ensure you give plenty of treats, praises, and positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and progress.

Teeter Board Training

Teeter Board Training is another advanced agility technique that your Shih Tzu can benefit from. This exercise teaches your dog balance and stability, which are essential for navigating obstacles. It can be a challenging exercise, but with patience and persistence, your dog can learn to master it.

Here are some steps to follow when teaching your dog Teeter Board Training:

1. Introduce the Teeter Board gradually. Start by having your dog walk on a flat board, then gradually elevate one end until it reaches a 45-degree angle.
2. Have your dog get used to the movement. Slowly lower the elevated end of the board and gradually increase the angle until it reaches the ground. Make sure your dog is comfortable with the board’s movement before proceeding with the next step.
3. Introduce the “bang” command. This command teaches your dog to wait while the board is in motion, then jump off when the board touches the ground. Practice this command several times until your dog gets used to it.
4. Gradually increase the speed of the board. Start with a slow speed and gradually increase the speed as your dog gets more comfortable with the exercise.
5. Add obstacles to the Teeter Board. Once your dog has mastered the Teeter Board exercise, add some obstacles like jumps or weave poles to make the exercise more challenging.

It’s important to keep in mind that Teeter Board Training can be a potentially dangerous activity if not done correctly. Always supervise your dog during training and make sure the board is secure before letting your dog on it. Also, make sure your dog is physically ready for this exercise by consulting your veterinarian beforehand.

With consistency and patience, your Shih Tzu can learn to master the Teeter Board exercise and become a skilled agility dog.

Tire Jumps and Hoops

One of the advanced agility training techniques for Shih Tzu is tire jumps and hoops. These exercises help improve coordination, speed, and agility in your furry friend.

Tire Jumps: Tire jumps require your Shih Tzu to jump through a tire suspended in the air. This exercise improves your dog’s jumping skills, accuracy, and timing. To begin this training, follow these steps:

1. Start with a low or medium height tire.
2. Guide your Shih Tzu through the tire.
3. Gradually increase the height and width of the tire as your dog masters the exercise.
4. Make sure the tire is sturdy and safe for your dog to jump through.

Hoops: Hoops are another training exercise that requires your Shih Tzu to jump through a circular hoop. This exercise helps improve your dog’s coordination, focus, and balance. To begin this training, follow these steps:

1. Start with a low or medium height hoop.
2. Guide your Shih Tzu through the hoop.
3. Gradually increase the height and width of the hoop as your dog masters the exercise.
4. Make sure the hoop is sturdy and safe for your dog to jump through.

It’s important to note that tire jumps and hoops should only be done after your Shih Tzu has mastered basic jumps and agility techniques. Always ensure that your furry friend is comfortable and confident before increasing the difficulty of the exercise. Additionally, monitor your dog’s fatigue levels and stop the exercise if they show signs of exhaustion or discomfort.

By incorporating tire jumps and hoops into your Shih Tzu’s advanced agility training, you can improve their physical and mental skills while creating a fun and challenging bonding experience for both you and your furry friend.

Advanced Tunnel Training

Advanced Tunnel Training is a crucial aspect of Agility Training for Shih Tzu. It requires cleanliness, speed, and fluency in basic commands such as “come,” “stay,” and “go.” Here are some techniques to help you train your Shih Tzu for advanced tunnel training:

• Introduce Shorter Tunnels: Firstly, you need to introduce shorter tunnels to your dog. This is the basic step towards advanced tunnel training. Your Shih Tzu should be comfortable running inside it. You can use treats and commands to encourage your dog to enter and exit the tunnel.
• Increase Tunnel Length: Once your dog is comfortable with shorter tunnels, you can gradually increase the length of the tunnel. At this stage, you can start teaching directional commands such as “left,” “right,” and “straight.”
• Add Obstacles: To make the tunnel training more challenging, you can add obstacles such as hurdles or weave poles. This will help your Shih Tzu build up speed and confidence while running through the tunnel.
• Practice with Distractions: Your Shih Tzu should be able to concentrate on running through the tunnel, even with distractions like people and other dogs around. To help them become accustomed to distractions, conduct training sessions in busy parks or on walking trails.
• Teach the ‘Wait’ Command: Once your Shih Tzu is running through the long tunnel with ease, it’s important to teach them the “wait” command. This will help them pause before exiting the tunnel, and wait for your next command.

Advanced tunnel training is an essential part of Agility Training for Shih Tzu. By gradually introducing longer tunnels, incorporating obstacles, practicing with distractions, and teaching directional commands and the “wait” command, your dog will become a pro at running through the tunnels. Remember to always monitor their fatigue levels and stop training them if they seem uncomfortable or tired.

Contacts: A-Frames and Dog Walks

During advanced agility training, your Shih Tzu will encounter various obstacles known as contacts. Contacts include equipment like A-frames and dog walks, which require your pup to walk across elevated planks with contact zones at either end. These obstacles demand precision, control, and body awareness from your furry companion.

A-Frames

A-frames present a challenging obstacle for your Shih Tzu to master. The equipment is a two-sided ramp set up with a peak in the middle, forming the shape of an ‘A’. During training, your Shih Tzu must navigate up the incline, touch the contact zone at the peak, and safely descend the other side. To train for this, start with a low A-frame and gradually increase the height.

Table:

| A-Frame Training Tips |
| — |
| Start at a low height |
| Increase height gradually |
| Use a supportive harness |
| Use a treat reward system |
| Practice regularly |

Dog Walks

Dog walks consist of a narrow plank raised off the ground with contact zones at either end. During training, your Shih Tzu must traverse the plank, making contact with the zones while maintaining balance and control. To prepare for this obstacle, start with a low-rise and gradually increase the height.

Table:

| Dog Walk Training Tips |
| — |
| Start at a low height |
| Increase height gradually |
| Use a supportive harness |
| Use a treat reward system |
| Practice regularly |

It’s crucial to begin contacts training at a low level to prevent injury or fear in your Shih Tzu. A supportive harness can assist your pup’s balance and prevent injury during practice. Using a treat-reward system will keep your furry friend motivated and engaged. Practice regularly but don’t overdo it. Always pay attention to your pup’s fatigue levels and readiness to continue. With patience, persistence, and a supportive training approach, your Shih Tzu will master contacts and excel in advanced agility training.

Combination Exercises

Combination exercises are a way to challenge your Shih Tzu’s agility skills by combining multiple obstacles in one course. These exercises test the dog’s ability to follow directions, maintain focus, and navigate through a variety of obstacles. Using a combination of jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and contact obstacles, you can create a course that will keep your Shih Tzu mentally stimulated and physically fit.

Here are some examples of combination exercises:

Tips for creating combination exercises:

1. Keep it challenging but achievable: The course should be challenging enough to test your Shih Tzu’s agility skills, but not so difficult that they become frustrated or discouraged.

2. Mix up the obstacles: Including a variety of obstacles will keep your Shih Tzu engaged and excited to complete the course.

3. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Shih Tzu with treats and praise when they successfully complete the course. This will help reinforce good behavior and keep them motivated.

4. Start with a simple course: If your Shih Tzu is new to combination exercises, start with a simple course and gradually increase the difficulty as they improve.

Benefits of combination exercises:

Combination exercises help improve your Shih Tzu’s agility skills in a variety of ways:

– Builds coordination and balance
– Increases speed and agility
– Enhances focus and concentration
– Strengthens the bond between you and your dog

Including combination exercises in your Shih Tzu’s agility training regimen will provide a fun and challenging way to keep them mentally stimulated and physically fit.

Keeping Your Shih Tzu Safe During Training

As a responsible pet owner, the safety of your Shih Tzu should always be a top priority, especially during advanced agility training. While agility training can be a fun and rewarding activity for both you and your furry friend, it also comes with potential risks. It’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your dog is protected from injury and discomfort during training sessions. In this section, we will discuss some key strategies to keep your Shih Tzu safe and healthy while participating in advanced agility training.

Regular Vet Checks

Regular vet checks are essential for ensuring the health and overall well-being of your Shih Tzu. These checks should be done at least once a year and include a thorough examination of your dog’s physical condition by a qualified veterinarian. Here are some reasons why regular vet checks are important for your Shih Tzu:

• Prevention: Regular vet checks allow your veterinarian to monitor your Shih Tzu’s health and identify any potential health issues before they become serious.
• Vaccination: Your veterinarian can also ensure that your Shih Tzu is up-to-date on all required vaccinations, protecting them from illnesses and diseases that could be dangerous and potentially fatal.
• Dental Care: A veterinary checkup is also a good time to have your Shih Tzu’s teeth checked and cleaned, helping to prevent dental problems.
• Parasite Prevention: Regular vet checks can also help to prevent parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms, which can be harmful to your pet.
• Senior Health: As your Shih Tzu ages, regular vet checks become even more important. Senior dogs are more susceptible to health issues, and regular checkups can help identify any issues early and provide appropriate treatment.

By scheduling regular vet checks for your Shih Tzu, you are ensuring that your furry friend stays healthy and happy for years to come. Don’t wait for health issues to arise before taking your dog in for a checkup. Prevention is key, and regular vet visits are an important part of your Shih Tzu’s overall health plan.

Stretching and Warm-up Exercises

Being a responsible Shih Tzu owner, it’s vital to ensure that your furry friend is well-prepared for advanced agility training. One of the most overlooked aspects of training is stretching and warm-up exercises. Stretching and warming up may seem like unnecessary, time-consuming steps, but they are incredibly crucial as they help in preventing injuries, increasing flexibility, and improving performance.

Here are some warm-up and stretching exercises your Shih Tzu can do before starting agility training:

It’s vital to note that stretching and warm-up exercises should not be intense but rather gentle and easy. Overstretching or exerting too much pressure on muscles can lead to injuries, and that’s why you should always take it slow.

Stretching and warm-up exercises are crucial to preparing your Shih Tzu for advanced agility training. As much as they may seem unnecessary, they ultimately help keep your furry friend safe and healthy, improving their performance and ensuring that every training session is a success.

Monitoring Your Shih Tzu’s Fatigue Levels

As you engage your Shih Tzu in advanced agility training techniques, it is important to closely monitor their fatigue levels to prevent injury or exhaustion. Here are some tips on how to effectively monitor your pup:

• Observe their behavior: Pay attention to any signs of fatigue, such as heavy panting, slowing down, or reluctance to participate. If you notice these signs, it may be time to give your Shih Tzu a break.
• Take breaks: Incorporate rest breaks into your training sessions. This will allow your Shih Tzu to recover their energy and avoid burnout.
• Watch their gait: Keep an eye on how they are moving – if they appear to be limping or favoring a certain leg, it could be a sign of an injury or fatigue.
• Check their heart rate: You can monitor your dog’s heart rate by placing your hand on their chest or using a heart rate monitor. If their heart rate is elevated and does not come down during rest time, it may be a sign of fatigue.

Remember that each dog is unique and may have different limits when it comes to physical activity. It’s important to listen to your Shih Tzu’s body language and adjust the training accordingly. With patience and consistent monitoring, you can help ensure that your furry friend stays safe and healthy during agility training.

Knowing When to Stop

As much as you want to push your Shih Tzu to become an agility champ, you must also know when to call it a day. Your dog’s safety should always be your top priority. Here are some signs to watch out for that may indicate you need to stop the training session:

• Excessive Panting – If your Shih Tzu is panting heavily and can’t seem to catch their breath, it’s a sign that they are fatigued and need to rest.
• Sluggish Movements – If your dog is moving slowly and seems to be struggling to complete the obstacles, stop the session and let them rest.
• Disinterest and Distraction – If your Shih Tzu is not as enthusiastic as they normally are during training sessions, it may be a sign that they’re feeling overwhelmed and need to take a break.
• Limping or Whimpering – If your dog seems to be in pain, limping or whimpering, stop the session and seek veterinary attention if necessary.
• Loss of Appetite or Vomiting – If your Shih Tzu seems to be experiencing digestive issues during or after training sessions, it may be a sign that they’re overexerting themselves.

Remember, agility training should be fun and rewarding for both you and your furry friend. Don’t push your dog beyond their limits and always prioritize their safety and well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, advanced agility training techniques for Shih Tzu are an excellent way to keep your furry friend physically fit and mentally stimulated. With consistent practice and dedication, your Shih Tzu can become a skilled and confident agility athlete.

It is important to remember that preparation is key before beginning any advanced training. Basic obedience training is essential as it establishes a foundation of discipline and reliability in your Shih Tzu. Additionally, physical preparation and acquiring necessary equipment are crucial for both safety and success.

Once your Shih Tzu is adequately prepared, advanced training techniques such as jumps and hurdles, weave poles, teeter board training, tire jumps and hoops, tunnel training, and contact obstacles can be introduced. These training techniques vary in difficulty, and it is essential to monitor your Shih Tzu’s fatigue levels and progress as you advance through each exercise.

As with any physical activity, safety should be a top priority. Regular vet checks, stretching and warm-up exercises, monitoring your Shih Tzu’s fatigue levels, and knowing when to stop are all essential components of keeping your furry friend safe during training.

Overall, advanced agility training techniques offer numerous benefits for both you and your Shih Tzu. Improved physical fitness, increased mental stimulation, and strengthened bonds between you and your furry friend are just a few of the rewards of consistent training and dedication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age can Shih Tzu begin agility training?

Shih Tzu can start agility training around 1 year of age when their joints and bones have developed enough.

Do I need a large yard for agility training?

No, you do not need a large yard for agility training. You can train indoors or use a dog park or other suitable area.

Can a Shih Tzu with health problems do agility training?

It depends on the severity of the health problems. Consult with your veterinarian before starting any agility training with a Shih Tzu with health issues.

How long does it take to advance to the highest level of agility training?

It varies depending on the dog’s abilities and training. It can take anywhere from several months to several years.

Can a shy Shih Tzu be trained for agility?

With proper training and patience, any Shih Tzu can be trained for agility, even if they are shy.

Can I use homemade agility equipment?

Yes, homemade agility equipment can be used as long as it is sturdy and safe for your Shih Tzu to use.

Do I need to have prior experience to train my Shih Tzu in agility?

No, prior experience is not necessary. However, it is recommended to consult with a professional trainer or attend classes before starting agility training.

Can agility training be done in groups with other dogs?

Yes, agility training can be done in groups with other dogs. This can help with socialization and motivation.

Are certain breeds better suited for agility training than others?

Some breeds may have natural abilities that make them better suited for agility training, but any breed can be trained for agility if given proper training and patience.

Is agility training just for competition purposes?

No, agility training can also be used as exercise and mental stimulation for your Shih Tzu, even if you do not plan on competing.

References

• Shih Tzu Training Methods – Best Techniques
• 10 Tips to Practice Agility at Home with Your Dog
• Riley’s Agility Training and Career – OhMyShihTzu.com

Previous

Why Early Socialization Training is Important for Your Shih Tzu

Next

The Dangers of Overfeeding Your Shih Tzu

Britta Thygesen

A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make Doggolab a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.

Related Articles

Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0

When to Start Obedience Training for Lhasa Apso Puppies

Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0

The Importance of Consistency and Patience in Training Your Lhasa Apso

Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0

Choosing the Best Obedience Training for Your Lhasa Apso

Added to wishlistRemoved from wishlist 0

How to Boost Your Lhasa Apso’s Agility Performance