Choosing the Right Equipment for Agility Training for Your Shih Tzu

Britta Thygesen 27.04.2023 0

Are you a Shih Tzu owner looking to enhance your furry friend’s physical and mental capabilities? Agility training might just be the solution you’re looking for! Agility training involves completing obstacle courses, including jumps, tunnels, and weave poles, in a set amount of time. It’s a great way to bond with your pup while increasing their strength, balance, and agility. But before you start, you’ll need to gather the right equipment. In this article, we’ll guide you on the basic equipment you’ll need for agility training with your Shih Tzu and share some tips for making the experience enjoyable for both you and your four-legged friend.

Agility Training for Shih Tzu

Agility training can be a great way to bond with your Shih Tzu while also providing a fun way to exercise and challenge their mind and body. Shih Tzus are intelligent and energetic dogs who were originally bred for companionship, making them ideally suited to agility training. In this section, we will discuss the basics of agility training and how to get started with your Shih Tzu. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trainer, this guide will provide useful tips and insights to help you and your furry friend excel in agility. So let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of agility training for Shih Tzus!

What is Agility Training?

Agility training is a canine sport that involves a timed obstacle course consisting of jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and other challenges. This activity tests a dog’s agility, speed, and ability to take directions from its owner.

Agility training is not only great exercise for your Shih Tzu, but it also provides mental stimulation that can help prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Plus, it provides an opportunity for you and your furry friend to bond over a shared activity.

To get started with agility training, you’ll need to invest in some basic equipment. In the next section, we’ll cover the essential items you’ll need to set up your own agility course for your Shih Tzu to train on.

But before we do that, let’s talk about some of the benefits of agility training for your Shih Tzu, and why it’s a great activity to take on.

Benefits of Agility Training for Shih Tzu
Helps improve fitness and overall health
Provides mental stimulation and helps prevent boredom
Strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend
Promotes obedience and helps your Shih Tzu develop listening skills
Boosts confidence and helps overcome shyness or fearfulness

As you can see, the benefits of agility training for your Shih Tzu are many. From improving fitness and mental health, to promoting obedience and boosting confidence, there’s a lot to gain from this activity.

In the next section, we’ll dive into the equipment you’ll need to get started with agility training for your Shih Tzu. But before we do that, keep in mind that there are some common mistakes to avoid when training for agility. To learn more about these mistakes and how to avoid them, check out our article on Shih Tzu agility mistakes to avoid.

Benefits of Agility Training for Shih Tzu

Agility training can provide numerous benefits for your Shih Tzu beyond just physical exercise. Here are some of the benefits of agility training for your furry friend:

Improved physical health: Agility training is an excellent way to improve your Shih Tzu’s overall physical health. The training involves running, jumping, weaving, and crawling through obstacles that will help in maintaining a healthy weight, stronger muscles, and better coordination.
Enhanced mental stimulation: Agility training is not just physically demanding but requires considerable mental effort from your Shih Tzu. The training involves learning new commands and understanding the course, which stimulates their brain and helps prevent boredom.
Improved socialization skills: Agility training provides an excellent opportunity for your Shih Tzu to socialize with other dogs and people. It helps in building their confidence and teaches them to interact with others in a positive way, improving their socialization skills.
Better obedience and control: Agility training teaches your Shih Tzu better control, focus, and obedience to the commands given by their owners. They learn to follow orders while running through the obstacles and understand the importance of being disciplined.
Bonding time: Agility training is an excellent way for you to bond with your Shih Tzu. When you train together, you build trust and strengthen that bond by doing something that you both enjoy.

The benefits of agility training for Shih Tzu are immense, not only for their physical health but also for their social and mental wellbeing. It is worth exploring agility training as a form of exercise for your Shih Tzu, and If your Shih Tzu is new to agility training, you can start with some basic training exercises to prepare them. Take the time to bond with your Shih Tzu through training and witness the change in their physical and mental health.

Basic Equipment You Need for Agility Training for Your Shih Tzu

When it comes to agility training for your beloved Shih Tzu, having the right equipment is crucial. This equipment not only ensures that your furry friend is safe, but it also helps develop their agility and speed. In this section, we will discuss the basic equipment that you need to get started with agility training for your Shih Tzu. From collars to jumps, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started and make sure your Shih Tzu is ready to train and become an agility superstar! For more information on preparing your Shih Tzu for agility training, check out our article on Shih Tzu agility prep.

Collar and Leash

When you are starting agility training with your Shih Tzu, it’s crucial to have proper equipment, including a collar and leash. The collar should fit comfortably around your dog’s neck, neither too tight nor too loose. It’s recommended to use a flat buckle collar that won’t break under pressure. Avoid using choke chains, prong collars or shock collars, as they can be harmful to your dog.

The leash should be six feet long and made of a durable material such as nylon or leather. Avoid using retractable leashes that may be difficult to control during training. A sturdy leash provides a better grip and control for you over your Shih Tzu.

When choosing a collar and leash, it’s important to keep in mind that agility training involves a lot of movement, and your dog will be running and jumping around. It’s crucial that the collar and leash are properly secured to prevent them from slipping off or becoming loose during training.

To ensure the safety of your Shih Tzu during training, it’s also important to use a harness in addition to the collar and leash. A harness is a more secure option that prevents choking and relieves the strain on the dog’s neck, especially during high-impact activities like jumping.

Remember, safety is a top priority when it comes to agility training for your Shih Tzu. Always have the proper equipment, including a collar, leash, and harness to ensure your furry friend’s safety throughout the training.

For more information on agility training for your Shih Tzu, check out our article on basic agility training or our article on advanced agility training.

Training Treats

When it comes to agility training for your Shih Tzu, having a few tasty and motivating treats is always a good idea. Training treats can serve as a reward for good behavior and can help reinforce positive training experiences. Here are some tips to choosing the right treats for your furry friend:

Choose Small and Bite-Sized Treats: When training your Shih Tzu, you’ll want to keep training sessions short and sweet. To avoid overfeeding your dog, choose small and bite-sized treats that your dog can quickly consume.
Look for Soft and Chewy Treats: Soft and chewy treats are a popular choice for agility training because they are easy to eat and easy to digest. Jerky, freeze-dried, or dehydrated meats can be a perfect option for your active dog.
Variety is Key: Your Shih Tzu will also appreciate variety in their treats. Consider mixing up the types of treats you use during training sessions to maintain your dog’s interest and motivation. A mix of savory and sweet treats can be ideal for agility training.
Avoid Treats with Additives and Fillers: When shopping for training treats, be sure to read the list of ingredients. Avoid treats with additives and fillers such as artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Instead, choose treats that are made from high-quality protein sources.
Consider Nutrition: While it’s important to prioritize taste and motivating power when it comes to training treats, nutrition should also be taken into consideration. Look for treats that are low in calories and made from healthy and natural ingredients.

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect training treats for agility training with your Shih Tzu. A tasty treat can help encourage your dog’s eagerness to participate in the training process, and can even turn your dog’s training sessions into a fun bonding experience.

Agility Tunnel

A key element of any agility training course is the Agility Tunnel. This equipment consists of a long nylon or vinyl tunnel that sits on the ground and has a hole in the middle. The tunnel can be either straight or have curves in it, depending on the desired level of difficulty.

Here are some features of Agility Tunnels:

Material – The agility tunnels are usually made of durable materials that can withstand rough use and weather conditions. Most of the tunnels are made of nylon or vinyl.
Length – Tunnels come in different lengths but the most commonly used length is 16-20 feet.
Diameter – Tunnels can have different diameters. For a Shih Tzu, a diameter of around 2 feet is appropriate.
Weight – Agility tunnels are lightweight and easy to move around. They do not need a lot of space and can fit in small gardens or rooms.
Color – Most agility tunnels come in bright colors that attract dogs and motivate them to explore.

Agility tunnels are great equipment for training Shih Tzus because they help to improve their agility and coordination. The tunnel is appealing to the dogs and encourages them to run, crawl, and explore.

Here are some benefits of Agility Tunnels:

Physical exercise – Tunnels stimulate physical activity that is essential for Shih Tzus. They provide an outlet for pent-up energy, which can prevent negative behaviors like barking and chewing on furniture.
Mental stimulation – The tunnel requires your Shih Tzu to use their problem-solving skills and expand their mental capacity, which helps to keep them sharp and focused.
Bonding – Working with your dog through the tunnel builds trust, communication, and enhances your relationship with your dog.
Confidence building – Agility training builds confidence in dogs. As Shih Tzus navigate through the tunnel, they become more confident in their abilities and feel a sense of accomplishment when they complete the course.

Agility tunnels are fantastic equipment for agility training for your Shih Tzu. They provide a plethora of benefits such as physical exercise, mental stimulation, bonding, and confidence building. The tunnel can be set up in any small space and is easy to move around. Give your Shih Tzu the opportunity to explore its curiosity and increase its coordination with agility tunnels.

Jumping Hoops

Jumping hoops are another essential piece of equipment that your Shih Tzu needs for agility training. These hoops help to develop your dog’s jumping skills and encourage him to jump higher and further with every attempt.

When choosing jumping hoops for your Shih Tzu, make sure to pick ones with adjustable heights. This feature allows you to adjust the height of the hoops as your dog’s jumping skills improve. Using adjustable jumping hoops enables you to customize training to your Shih Tzu’s skill level and helps him to progress steadily towards more advanced jumps.

Here are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing jumping hoops:

Pick sturdy and durable jumping hoops that can withstand repeated use and last for many training sessions.
Choose one that is easy to assemble and disassemble. This quality allows you to set up and pack up quickly, making training more convenient for you and your furry friend.
Ensure that the hoop’s diameter is large enough for your Shih Tzu to jump comfortably.
Make sure to place the jumping hoops in a spacious area and away from obstacles or hazards that could cause your Shih Tzu to get injured.
Always supervise your Shih Tzu during the agility training and avoid pushing him beyond his capability.

Jumping hoops add an element of fun and excitement to your Shih Tzu’s agility training, making it a highly rewarding experience for your furry friend. With patience, consistency, and the right equipment, you will have a well-trained Shih Tzu that has the skills to conquer any obstacle course!

Weave Poles

Another piece of equipment that you’ll need for agility training with your Shih Tzu is weave poles. These poles are a fun and challenging obstacle that require your Shih Tzu to weave in and out of them in a zig-zag pattern. This obstacle helps improve your dog’s focus, coordination, and agility.

What are weave poles?

Weave poles are a set of vertical poles that are placed in a row. These poles are spaced a certain distance apart, and your Shih Tzu must weave in and out of them without missing any poles. The weave pole set typically contains six to twelve poles, depending on the level of difficulty that you want to achieve. Each pole is around 3 feet tall and made of sturdy plastic or PVC material.

Why are weave poles important?

Weave poles are one of the most exciting obstacles in agility training for Shih Tzu. They not only keep your dog physically fit but also improve their problem-solving skills. As your Shih Tzu weaves in and out of the poles, they are required to focus and coordinate their movements, which is beneficial for their overall health and well-being. Additionally, this type of obstacle provides an excellent opportunity for bonding with your pet.

When purchasing weave poles, look for those that are adjustable, so you can set them up to match your dog’s height and skill level. This ensures your Shih Tzu will be properly challenged while remaining safe during training sessions.

Pros	Cons
Improves focus and coordination	Can be difficult to teach for some dogs
Improves agility and overall fitness	Requires additional space to set up and train
Creates a stronger bond between owner and pet	Requires time, patience, and consistency to master

Tips for using weave poles in agility training with Shih Tzu
– Start with only two or three poles before gradually increasing to a full set.
– Use positive reinforcement to reward your Shih Tzu for every successful weaving attempt.
– Be patient with your Shih Tzu, weaving through poles can take time to master.
– Use light-weight weaving poles that are easy for you to move and adjust as needed.

Pause Table

The pause table is an essential equipment in agility training for your Shih Tzu. It’s a platform or table where your dog is trained to pause for a certain amount of time before continuing the course. It’s also useful for improving your dog’s focus and control.

Why is the Pause Table important?

The Pause Table is an essential part of agility training for Shih Tzu. It teaches the dog to stop and pause before continuing with the course, which can help improve their focus and concentration. By training your Shih Tzu to pause on the table, you’ll be able to reinforce the “wait” or “stay” command, which can be useful in everyday situations.

How to use the Pause Table

When training your Shih Tzu to use the Pause Table, it’s important to use positive reinforcement techniques. Start by encouraging your dog to jump on or climb up on the table. Then, give them the “wait” or “stay” command and reward them when they follow through. Gradually extend the amount of time your dog is required to stay on the table, always rewarding them for good behavior.

Choosing a Pause Table

When choosing a Pause Table for your Shih Tzu, make sure it’s sturdy and durable enough to handle their weight. It should also have a non-slip surface to prevent your dog from slipping off. Choose a table that’s large enough for your dog to comfortably stand on, but not too high that jumping on it becomes dangerous.

Summary

The Pause Table is a crucial piece of equipment for agility training for your Shih Tzu. It teaches your dog to concentrate and focus, while also helping to reinforce basic obedience commands. When using the Pause Table, always use positive reinforcement techniques and choose a sturdy, non-slip surface. With patience and consistency, your Shih Tzu will quickly learn how to master the Pause Table and improve their agility skills.

Clicker

When it comes to agility training for your Shih Tzu, a clicker is an essential tool to have. A clicker is a small handheld device that makes a clicking sound when pressed that’s used to mark desirable behavior during training. It’s an effective way to communicate with your dog and let them know when they’ve done something you like. Here’s a breakdown of why a clicker is so important and how to use it effectively:

Why a Clicker is Important

A clicker allows you to be more precise in your training. It marks the exact moment your dog has done what you want them to do, which makes the message more clear. It also helps to reinforce positive behavior in a fun, positive way. Your dog will associate the sound of the click with a good thing – a treat or reward, for example – which will motivate them to want to hear it again and again.

How to Use a Clicker Effectively

When you first introduce the clicker to your Shih Tzu, start by making clicking noises (click and treat) without asking anything of them. This will help them understand the association between the click and a reward. Once they understand this concept, you can start to use the click to mark specific behaviors you want them to repeat. For example, if you’re training your dog to jump over a hurdle, click the moment they’ve jumped over it and follow up with a treat. Repeat this process until they associate the click with a positive response.

Be consistent with your clicks and always follow up with a reward. Over time, you’ll be able to phase out the treats and rely solely on the click as a reward. It’s also important to use the clicker sparingly – use it only to mark important, desirable behaviors.

Remember that it takes time and patience to train your Shih Tzu, and using a clicker is just one part of the process. But with consistent training and positive reinforcement, your dog will soon learn to enjoy agility training and become a pro at navigating through the various obstacles.

With a clicker in your toolkit, you’re well on your way to having an effective and enjoyable agility training experience with your Shih Tzu.

Carry Bag or Backpack

One of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to agility training for your Shih Tzu is that you need to be able to transport all the equipment required easily. That’s where a carry bag or backpack comes in handy.

With so many different pieces of equipment needed for agility training, it can be difficult to keep track of everything. A carry bag or backpack allows you to keep all the equipment in one place, making it easy to transport to and from training sessions.

When it comes to choosing a carry bag or backpack for your agility equipment, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you’ll want to ensure that the bag is large enough to hold all the equipment you need.

You’ll also want to choose a bag that is durable and well-made. Look for one that is made from strong, high-quality materials, and has sturdy straps or handles that can withstand the weight of your equipment.

In addition to being functional, your carry bag or backpack can also be a reflection of your personal style. There are many different designs and colors available, so you’re sure to find one that speaks to your tastes.

At the end of the day, investing in a good quality carry bag or backpack will make it easier for you to transport all the equipment you need for agility training, as well as keep it organized and in good condition.

Tips for Successful Agility Training with Your Shih Tzu

Now that you have the basic equipment needed for agility training for your Shih Tzu, it’s time to focus on the training itself. Agility training may seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your pet. Here are some key tips and tricks to ensure that your agility training with your Shih Tzu is effective and enjoyable. From starting with basic training to keeping the sessions short and fun, these tips will help set you and your Shih Tzu up for success on the agility course.

Start with Basic Training

When starting agility training with your Shih Tzu, it is important to begin with basic training techniques. This means teaching your dog basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” By mastering these basic commands, your Shih Tzu will be better prepared to learn more complex agility maneuvers.

One effective way to teach these basic commands is through positive reinforcement training. To effectively use positive reinforcement, reward your Shih Tzu with treats, praise and/or toys every time he or she correctly performs the desired action. Consistency is key when employing this technique.

To help you get started with basic training, we have compiled a list of essential tips and techniques in the following table:

Tip	Description
Use Positive Reinforcement	Reward your Shih Tzu with treats, praise and/or toys every time he or she correctly performs the desired action. Consistency is key when employing this technique.
Be Patient	Training your dog takes time and patience. Don’t rush it or become frustrated if your dog is not catching on as quickly as you would like.
Keep it Short	Training your Shih Tzu in short, frequent sessions is more effective than one long session.
Start Slowly	Start with simple, easy-to-understand exercises and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more comfortable with the training.
Stay Consistent	Use the same commands and techniques every time you train your Shih Tzu to help reinforce good behavior.

By following these basic training tips and techniques, you will be well on your way to successfully training your Shih Tzu for agility. Remember to stay positive, be patient, and keep the training sessions fun and engaging for both you and your furry companion.

Train in Short Sessions

When it comes to agility training for your Shih Tzu, it’s important to remember that they have a relatively short attention span. It’s essential that training sessions are kept short and focused.

Here are some tips for training your Shih Tzu in short sessions:

Keep the training sessions to around 10-15 minutes each.
Break the training down into manageable chunks, focusing on one skill at a time.
Make sure you have your Shih Tzu’s attention and that they are engaged in the task at hand.
End each session on a positive note, with a successful repetition of a skill they have learned.
Start each new session by reviewing the skills they have already learned before moving on to new skills.

Remember that repetition is key when it comes to training your Shih Tzu, but overdoing it can cause your dog to lose interest and become disengaged from the training process. By keeping the sessions short and focused, you can help your Shih Tzu stay engaged and motivated throughout the training process, and ultimately ensure the success of the agility training program.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to agility training for your Shih Tzu. It helps establish a routine and helps your dog understand what is expected of them. This is why it’s important to create a consistent training schedule and stick to it.

Table:

Be Consistent
Consistent Training Schedule: Create a consistent training schedule and try to stick to it as much as possible. This helps your Shih Tzu develop a routine and understand when training is going to happen.
Consistent Commands: Use the same commands consistently throughout training. This helps your Shih Tzu understand what is expected of them and eliminates confusion.
Consistent Rewards: Offer consistent rewards for good behavior and successful completion of tasks. This motivates your Shih Tzu and encourages them to perform at their best.
Consistent Environment: Try to maintain a consistent training environment. This helps your Shih Tzu feel comfortable and confident, which can help them focus better during training.

Consistency is not just important during training sessions, but also outside of them. It’s important to make sure that everyone in the household is using the same commands and offering the same rewards to avoid confusion for your Shih Tzu. This consistency will ultimately help your Shih Tzu become a successful agility dog.

Motivate Your Shih Tzu

One of the most important factors in successful agility training for your Shih Tzu is motivation. Just like humans, dogs also need motivation to stay interested and engaged in their training. Here are some ways you can motivate your Shih Tzu during agility training:

Method	Description
Reward-based training	Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator for dogs. Use treats, praise, or play to reward your Shih Tzu for completing a task or obstacle correctly. This will encourage your dog to repeat the behavior in the future.
Verbal encouragement	Dogs thrive on positive feedback from their owners. Use a happy and excited tone of voice when giving commands or praise to your Shih Tzu during training. This will help motivate your dog to try harder and perform better.
Engage your dog’s senses	Shih Tzus are known for their keen sense of smell. Incorporate scent-based games or treats into your agility training routine. You can also use toys or objects that make noise or have flashing lights to stimulate your dog’s senses and keep them engaged.
Make it a game	Agility training should be fun and exciting for both you and your dog. Turn training into a game by adding a competitive element. You can time your dog’s completion of an obstacle course or compare their performance to previous training sessions. This will give your Shih Tzu a sense of achievement and motivation to improve.
Take breaks	Training can be exhausting for dogs, especially if they are not used to high-intensity activity. Take regular breaks during agility training to let your Shih Tzu rest and recharge. This will prevent burnout and keep your dog motivated to continue training.

By using these methods, you can keep your Shih Tzu motivated and interested in agility training. Remember to be patient and consistent with your training, as every dog learns at their own pace. With time and practice, your Shih Tzu will be able to tackle even the most challenging agility courses.

Keep the Training Fun

Agility training for Shih Tzu should be fun for both you and your furry friend. Here are some tips to make sure that your training sessions are enjoyable:

Change Up the Routine: Don’t let your Shih Tzu get bored with the same old training routine. Mix up the exercises by alternating between jumps, tunnels, and weave poles to keep things fresh and interesting.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Give your Shih Tzu lots of praise and treats so that they feel like they are doing a great job. Positive reinforcement will help keep them motivated and enthusiastic about their training.
Add Some Challenges: Once your Shih Tzu masters basic agility training, you can add some challenges to make the training more exciting. Increase the height of the jumps or add more weave poles to make the course more challenging.
Make it a Game: Turn your agility training into a game so that your Shih Tzu enjoys the session even more. Incorporate toys and playtime into the training session to keep things lighthearted and fun.
Don’t Push Too Hard: If your Shih Tzu seems tired or uninterested, don’t force them to continue with the training. Allow your furry friend to take breaks and end the session if the energy level is low.

By incorporating these tips into your agility training routine, you will not only improve your Shih Tzu’s agility and obedience, but also strengthen your bond with your furry friend. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process of training your Shih Tzu to become the best agility competitor they can be.

Conclusion

In conclusion, agility training can be a wonderful experience for both you and your Shih Tzu. Not only does it provide great physical exercise, but it also strengthens the bond and communication between you and your furry friend. By investing in the basic equipment needed for agility training, such as a collar and leash, training treats, agility tunnel, jumping hoops, weave poles, pause table, clicker, and carry bag or backpack, you can create a fun and exciting training environment for your Shih Tzu. Remember to start with basic training, keep sessions short, be consistent, motivate your Shih Tzu, and keep the training fun. With these tips, your Shih Tzu will become a pro in no time! So why not give agility training a try and see how much fun it can be? Your Shih Tzu will thank you for it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What age should I start agility training my Shih Tzu?

It is recommended to start agility training when your Shih Tzu is at least 1 year old, as their bones and muscles are fully developed at this age.

Do I need a specific type of collar and leash for agility training?

You will need a sturdy collar and a leash that allows your Shih Tzu to move freely. A harness can also be helpful, especially for small breeds like Shih Tzus.

Can I use regular dog treats for agility training?

Yes, you can use regular dog treats for agility training, but it is recommended to use high-value treats such as small pieces of chicken or cheese to motivate your Shih Tzu.

How many jumping hoops do I need for agility training?

It is recommended to start with 4-6 jumping hoops, depending on your Shih Tzu’s size and level of agility.

Do I need a large backyard to do agility training with my Shih Tzu?

No, you do not need a large backyard. You can set up a small agility course indoors or in a smaller outdoor space like a patio or balcony.

Can I teach my Shih Tzu agility training without a trainer?

Yes, you can teach your Shih Tzu agility training without a trainer, but it is recommended to have some basic knowledge of agility training techniques and safety measures.

How long should each agility training session be?

Agility training sessions should be kept short, around 10-15 minutes, to prevent your Shih Tzu from getting tired or losing interest.

Do I need to use a clicker for agility training?

Using a clicker can be helpful in agility training as it allows you to give immediate positive reinforcement to your Shih Tzu for completing a task correctly.

What should I do if my Shih Tzu is afraid of the agility tunnel?

Start by introducing the tunnel slowly and making it a positive experience with high-value treats. Gradually increase the length and difficulty of the tunnel as your Shih Tzu becomes more comfortable.

Can agility training help with my Shih Tzu’s behavior issues?

Agility training can help improve your Shih Tzu’s behavior by providing physical exercise, mental stimulation, and improving bonding between you and your pet.