Obedience Training Shih Poo Training Tips

Teaching Basic Commands to Your Shih Poo

Matthew Farthing 27.04.2023 0

Welcoming a new furry friend into your home is always exciting, especially when it’s a lovable and adorable Shih Poo! As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to teach your Shih Poo basic commands to ensure they stay safe, calm, and happy. From beginner tricks to more advanced training techniques, there are many commands you can teach your Shih Poo. In this article, we’ll outline five basic commands to teach your Shih Poo step-by-step, including the Sit, Stay, Come, Down, and Heel commands. By the end, your Shih Poo will be a well-trained and obedient companion that you’ll cherish for many years to come!

1. Sit Command

Teaching your Shih Poo commands is an essential part of their obedience training. One of the most important commands to teach your furry friend is the ability to sit. Not only is it a foundational command for other tricks and commands, but it also helps your furry friend learn patience and self-control. In this section, we’ll show you how to teach your Shih Poo to sit with step-by-step instructions, as well as tips and tricks to make the process smoother. Before we start, it’s important to note the significance of reinforcement in obedience training. For more information on the importance of reinforcement and other obedience training techniques, check out our article on the importance of reinforcement in obedience training.

Why Teach Sit Command?

Teaching your Shih Poo the sit command can be incredibly helpful in many situations. Sitting is a basic command, but it lays the foundation for other more advanced commands. It is also important for your dog to learn self-control, especially when they are overly excited or anxious. The sit command can help your Shih Poo to calm down, get settled, and focus on you. Additionally, it can also help to prevent unwanted behaviors such as jumping up on people or running off.

Teaching your Shih Poo to sit is relatively easy and can be done in a few simple steps:

Stand directly in front of your dog.
Hold a treat in your hand and let your dog sniff it, then slowly raise it above their head.
Your dog will naturally move into a sitting position as they try to reach the treat with their head.
As soon as your dog sits, give them the treat and verbal praise.
Repeat the process, but this time incorporate the command “sit” as your dog moves into a seated position.
Phase out the hand signal and use only the verbal command, but continue to reward your dog with treats and praise.

Here are some other tips to remember when teaching your Shih Poo the sit command:

Training sessions should be short, frequent and fun, about 5-10 minutes is ideal.
Use high-value treats that your dog loves and only give them as rewards during training sessions.
Stay patient, calm and consistent during your training sessions. Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training.
Never punish or scold your dog during training.

Teaching the sit command is one of the first steps in obedience training for your Shih Poo. Once your dog has mastered this command, you can move on to more advanced commands such as stay, down, and heel to improve obedience and behavior. If you want more tips on obedience training, you can check out our article on /shi-poo-obedience-training/.

How to Teach Sit Command to Your Shih Poo?

Teaching the sit command is important for your Shih Poo’s obedience and discipline. It is a basic command that helps your dog to sit still in a particular place. Below are the steps to teach the sit command to your Shih Poo:

Step	Description
Step 1	Choose a quiet and calm place to train your Shih Poo.
Step 2	Hold a treat close to your Shih Poo’s nose, then move your hand up, causing your dog’s head to follow the treat and his/her bottom to lower.
Step 3	As soon as your Shih Poo’s bottom touches the ground, say “Sit” in a firm, clear voice and give the treat immediately.
Step 4	Repeat this process several times, gradually raising your hand higher each time to encourage your Shih Poo to sit up.
Step 5	After few trainings, stop using your hand to guide your Shih Poo’s body, and use only your voice and treat to command your dog to sit.
Step 6	Practice the sit command regularly to ensure that your Shih Poo follows the command easily in different settings.

Tips to Remember:

Keep training sessions short and positive, for about 10-15 minutes per day.
Use positive reinforcements such as treats and praises to encourage your Shih Poo.
Avoid harsh treatments such as shouting or hitting during training as it does more harm than good.

Teaching the sit command can be one of the initial steps in obedience training for your Shih Poo. However, it’s important to remember that training needs to be continued as it helps in developing a strong bond between the owner and the dog. To learn more training commands for your Shih Poo, you can visit our article on starting obedience training for your Shih Poo.

Tips to Remember

When teaching your Shih Poo new commands, there are a few tips to keep in mind that can help make the process go smoother.

Tip	Description
Be Consistent	Use the same word or hand motion every time you give a command, and make sure everyone in your household is using the same technique. This will help your Shih Poo understand what is expected of them.
Use Positive Reinforcement	Rather than scolding or punishing your Shih Poo when they don’t understand a command, use treats and praise to reward them when they do it correctly. This will create a positive association with the command and encourage them to repeat the behavior.
Keep Training Sessions Short	Shih Poos can have short attention spans, so try to keep training sessions to 10-15 minutes. You can do multiple sessions throughout the day but don’t overwhelm your dog with too much at once.
Stay Patient	Remember that learning a new command takes time and repetition. If your Shih Poo is struggling with a particular command, take a break and try again later. Stay calm and positive, and your dog will be more likely to respond to your training.
Don’t Rush to the Next Command	Once your Shih Poo has mastered a command, continue to reinforce it regularly before moving on to a new command. You want to make sure your dog has a solid understanding before introducing something new.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can speed up your Shih Poo’s obedience training and create a positive learning experience for everyone involved. For more tips and tricks, check out our other articles on obedience training, crate training, leash training, clicker training, and aggression training.

2. Stay Command

Training your Shih Poo to stay is a fundamental command that can come in handy in a variety of situations, from ensuring their safety to maintaining order in your home. This command can be a bit challenging to teach, but the benefits are worth it. You can reinforce the stay command by combining it with other commands or utilizing tools such as crate training or a clicker, which we will discuss later in this article. Let’s dive into the importance of teaching your Shih Poo the stay command and how to train them to obey.

Why Teach Stay Command?

Teaching your Shih Poo the Stay command is important for their safety and well-being. Whether you need them to stay in one spot while you answer the door or avoid running into traffic, the Stay command can be a lifesaver. It’s also a useful tool for teaching your dog patience and discipline.

Here are some key reasons why you should teach your Shih Poo the Stay Command:

Safety: The Stay command can keep your Shih Poo out of harm’s way by preventing them from running into hazardous situations or wandering too far away.
Discipline: Learning to stay in one spot can teach your Shih Poo patience and self-control. This can help with other training behaviors as well, such as preventing aggression or barking.
Convenience: Whether you’re answering the door, talking to someone, or simply need your dog to stay somewhere, the Stay command can make your life easier and more convenient.

Teaching your Shih Poo the Stay command can provide peace of mind and make everyday life with your dog much safer and easier. But as with any command, it’s important to use positive reinforcement and consistency to ensure success.

To read more about obedience training, check out our tips to speed up obedience training, which can help make the training process faster and more effective.

How to Teach Stay Command to Your Shih Poo?

Teaching the Stay command is crucial in ensuring your Shih Poo’s safety and obedience. It’s a necessary step before moving on to more advanced commands. With a little patience and persistence, you can easily teach your furry friend this command.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1	Begin by commanding your Shih Poo to sit or lie down.
Step 2	Raise your hand, palm facing your Shih Poo, and say “Stay.”
Step 3	Take a step back and wait for a few seconds. If your Shih Poo stays in place, give them a treat and lots of praise.
Step 4	Gradually increase the distance between you and your Shih Poo while reinforcing the “Stay” command.
Step 5	If your Shih Poo tries to move, say “No” firmly and guide them back to their original position. Repeat the command and start again.
Step 6	Keep practicing this command every day until your Shih Poo can hold the Stay command for several minutes.

Tips to Remember:

– Always use a firm and clear tone when giving commands.
– Start practicing this command in an area with minimal distractions.
– Never punish your Shih Poo if they don’t get the command right. Instead, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
– Gradually increase the distance between you and your Shih Poo to avoid confusing them.
– Use treats and praise to reinforce positive behavior.

Once your Shih Poo has mastered the Stay command, you can move on to more advanced training. Consider enrolling them in obedience classes or using clicker training to enhance their obedience skills. Additionally, you can check out our article on leash training tips to help further train your Shih Poo.

Tips to Remember

Some important tips to remember while teaching your Shih Poo these basic commands are:

Tips	Details
Use positive reinforcement:	Always reward your Shih Poo with a treat or praise when they successfully follow a command. It helps in creating a positive environment.
Keep the training sessions short:	Long and tiring training sessions can quickly demotivate your Shih Poo. Keep the sessions short, around 10-15 minutes, and practice 2-3 times a day.
Be consistent:	Use the same command every time you want your Shih Poo to perform any task. Using different words for the same action can cause confusion and delay in learning.
Avoid punishment:	Physical punishment or scolding can make your Shih Poo scared and unresponsive. Instead, try and redirect their behavior towards positive behavior and reward them for it.
Gradual Progression:	Don’t rush through the training process. Gradually increase the difficulty level of the command as your Shih Poo starts to learn and master the basics.
Get Professional help:	If your Shih Poo is showing signs of aggression during training or struggling to learn basic commands, consider getting professional help from a dog trainer. Websites like /halt-aggression-obedience-training/ can provide you with helpful resources.
Use clicker training:	Clicker training can work wonders for your Shih Poo’s learning and motivation. Train your Shih Poo with a clicker to make the learning sessions more effective. Websites like /clicker-training-shih-poos/ offer useful tips on using clicker training.
Use crate training:	When teaching the ‘stay’ command, consider using crate training. This technique can be effective in keeping your Shih Poo in one place while you are away. Websites such as /crate-training-tips-success/ can give you insights on how to crate train your Shih Poo.
Practice the ‘come’ command:	Make sure you practice the ‘come’ command regularly with your Shih Poo so they respond positively when called. Train your Shih Poo in a safe and secure area, and websites like /shi-poo-come-when-called/ can provide you with helpful tips.

Remember, patience and consistency are key to teaching your Shih Poo these basic commands effectively. With a little time and effort, your Shih Poo will learn and obey these commands, making for a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for both you and your furry friend.

3. Come Command

We all love to see our furry little friends enjoy their freedom and explore the world around them. However, as pet owners, it is important to ensure that we have control over their movements and ensure their safety. And that’s where the ‘come command’ comes in handy. It allows you to call your Shih Poo to you, ensuring that they don’t wander too far away or get into any potentially dangerous situations. In this section, we’ll show you how to train your Shih Poo to respond to the ‘come command’. So, grab some treats, put on your positive attitude, and let’s get started!

Why Teach Come Command?

Teaching your Shih Poo the come command is an essential part of their training, as it can help keep them safe and out of harm’s way. Here are some reasons why teaching the come command is crucial:

Safety: If your Shih Poo accidentally gets loose or wanders away, the come command can help them return to you quickly and safely.
Bonding: Teaching your Shih Poo to come to you when called is a great way to build a strong bond between you and your pup.
Control: The come command gives you more control over your Shih Poo’s behavior, especially in situations where they might be tempted to run off or ignore you.

By teaching your Shih Poo the come command, you can instill good behavior and prevent potential problems down the line. It’s essential to start teaching the command early on in your pup’s training, as it may take time for them to understand and obey.

It’s important to note that teaching the come command should always be done in a positive and rewarding way, and never through punishment or fear-inducing techniques. Your Shih Poo should associate the command with positive experiences and feel motivated to come to you when called.

To teach your Shih Poo the come command, you can start by using treats and rewards to encourage them to come to you. Begin by calling their name followed by the command “come” in a happy and upbeat tone. When they come to you, reward them with a treat and lots of praise.

Repeat this process multiple times until your Shih Poo begins to associate the command with the action of coming to you. Gradually increase the distance between you and your pup, and continue practicing in different environments until they respond to the command each time.

Remember to keep training sessions short and positive, and always reward your Shih Poo for their efforts. Consistency is key, and with patience and practice, your pup will soon understand and obey the come command.

How to Teach Come Command to Your Shih Poo?

Teaching your Shih Poo to come when called is one of the most important commands you can teach them. Here are some steps you can follow to effectively teach your furry friend the “come” command:

Choose a quiet and secure environment: Start teaching your Shih Poo in a quiet and secure place so that they are not distracted by other things. A fenced-in yard or an indoor space is a great option.
Get your Shih Poo’s attention: Call your dog’s name in an upbeat tone to get their attention. Once they are looking at you, use a particular phrase, such as “come here” or “come,” to signal what you want them to do.
Use positive reinforcement: When your Shih Poo responds to your call, reward them with praise or a treat. It’s important to make the experience rewarding and positive to encourage your dog to continue to come when called.
Gradually increase distance: Once your Shih Poo is responding well to the “come” command, begin to increase the distance between you and them. Start by calling them from one room to another or from one end of the yard to the other. As they succeed, continue to increase the distance to further strengthen the command.
Prompt with a long leash: If your dog is still not responding well, try using a long leash to prompt them. Call them to come, and if they hesitate, give the leash a gentle tug to encourage them to come to you. However, be careful not to pull too hard or scare your dog.
Practice consistently: Practice the “come” command regularly with your Shih Poo to keep it fresh in their mind. Make it a fun game, and never use the command in a negative context, such as scolding or punishing your dog.

Remember, teaching your Shih Poo the “come” command may take some time and patience, but it’s an essential command that can keep your dog safe and happy.

Tips to Remember

When teaching your Shih Poo basic commands, there are some important tips to keep in mind to ensure successful training:

Tip	Description
Be Consistent	Consistency is key when training your Shih Poo. Make sure you use the same command every time and offer the same reward for positive behavior.
Use Positive Reinforcement	Use treats, verbal praise, and affection to reinforce positive behavior. Avoid using punishment or negative reinforcement.
Keep Training Sessions Short	Your Shih Poo is easily distracted, so keep training sessions short and focused. Aim for 5-10 minute sessions, several times a day.
Be Patient	Training your Shih Poo takes time and patience. Remember to stay calm and positive, even when your furry friend is struggling to learn.
Avoid Distractions	When training your Shih Poo, it’s important to eliminate any potential distractions. Move to a quiet location and eliminate any noise or movement that could distract your pup.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to effectively teach your Shih Poo basic commands that they will adhere to and obey for years to come.

4. Down Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the “down” command can be a bit challenging, but it is a fundamental skill that can help improve their obedience and overall behavior. This command teaches your furry friend to lay down on command and stay in that position until released. In this section, we will explore why the “down” command is important, how to teach it to your Shih Poo, and some helpful tips to keep in mind during the training process. Let’s get started!

Why Teach Down Command?

Teaching your Shih Poo the down command is an important step in their training. This command teaches your furry friend to lay down on their belly and relax. It’s important to teach this command because it is a great way to control your dog in stressful or overwhelming situations. Additionally, it’s an excellent way to manage their behavior in public places like parks or during vet visits.

Here are some more reasons why teaching the down command is important:

Reasons to Teach Down Command
To prevent jumping on people
To manage stress and anxiety in your Shih Poo
To promote relaxation and calmness
To establish your role as their leader

As you can see, there are many benefits to teaching the down command to your Shih Poo. It’s a great way to establish yourself as their leader and to promote relaxation in your furry friend. With consistent training and practice, your Shih Poo will master this command and become a well-behaved and obedient companion. Remember to always use positive reinforcement and patience when training your furry friend.

How to Teach Down Command to Your Shih Poo?

Teaching your Shih Poo the down command is an essential part of their obedience training. This command will help your furry friend to remain calm and relaxed, especially in social situations.

Here are the steps to teach your Shih Poo the down command:

Step 1:	Start by commanding your Shih Poo to sit. Once they are in the sitting position, place a treat in front of their nose and slowly lower it down towards the ground.
Step 2:	As you move the treat towards the ground, say “down” in a clear and firm voice.
Step 3:	Encourage your Shih Poo to follow the treat with their nose. As they lower their head to the ground, use your other hand to gently press on their back to encourage them to lay down.
Step 4:	Once your Shih Poo is lying down, reward them with the treat, and give them lots of praise and affection. Repeat this process several times and gradually decrease the treat rewards.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when teaching your Shih Poo the down command:

Start teaching the down command in a quiet and distraction-free environment
Keep training sessions short and positive
Be patient and consistent with your training
Never use physical force or punishment as a way to train your Shih Poo
Always end training sessions on a positive note

If you follow these steps and tips, you should be able to successfully teach your Shih Poo the down command in no time. Remember, positive reinforcement and consistency are key to a well-trained and obedient furry friend. So, take your time, have fun, and enjoy the process of training your beloved pet.

Tips to Remember

Teaching basic commands to your Shih Poo can be fun and rewarding, but there are a few tips that you should keep in mind to ensure that the training is effective and stress-free for your furry friend. Here are some tips to remember:

Be patient: Remember that your dog is still learning and may need time to understand what you’re asking for. Consistency and repetition are key to successful training.
Reward good behavior: Using treats, praise, or other positive reinforcement can help your Shih Poo understand that they’re doing the right thing. Always reward good behavior immediately.
Be consistent: Use the same command and tone of voice every time you ask your dog to perform a task. This will help avoid confusion and make training more efficient.
Start small: Begin by teaching one command at a time before moving onto another. This will prevent your dog from becoming overwhelmed and reduce the likelihood of them getting confused.
Keep training sessions short: Dogs have short attention spans, so it’s important to keep training sessions brief and focus on one task at a time. A few minutes of training each day is better than a long session once a week.
Stay positive: Dogs respond best to positive reinforcement and encouragement, so always maintain a positive attitude during training sessions. Avoid negative reinforcement or punishment.
Practice in different environments: Once your dog has mastered a command in one location, try practicing it in a different environment. This will help your Shih Poo generalize the command and understand that it applies in different situations.
Be flexible: Every dog is different, so be willing to adapt your training methods to suit your dog’s personality, temperament, and learning style.

By keeping these tips in mind and tailoring your training to your Shih Poo’s individual needs, you can help them learn basic commands quickly and successfully. Remember, training is a lifelong process, so continue to practice these skills with your furry friend.

5. Heel Command

As a pet owner, you want your Shih Poo to be a well-behaved and obedient dog. One command that can be particularly useful when out on walks is the “heel” command. This command teaches your dog to walk calmly alongside you without pulling or getting distracted by other people or animals. By establishing control over your dog’s movement, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. Let’s take a look at how you can teach your Shih Poo the “heel” command.

Why Teach Heel Command?

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Heel” command can have many benefits. It can help keep your dog under control when walking in crowded areas or around other dogs. “Heel” command can also help establish a strong bond between you and your Shih Poo.

Here are some reasons why you should teach your Shih Poo the “Heel” command:

Control: The “Heel” command can help you control your Shih Poo’s movements when walking on a leash. Your dog will be more focused on you and less likely to get distracted by things around them.
Bonding: Consistently practicing the “Heel” command with your dog can help build a stronger bond between you and your Shih Poo. It can also help increase your dog’s trust in you and their overall obedience.
Safety: The “Heel” command can help keep your Shih Poo safe in busy or crowded areas. By keeping your dog close to you, you can avoid potential hazards like cars, bicycles or other animals.
Exercise: Practicing the “Heel” command can also be a form of exercise for your dog. It can help stimulate their mind and keep them physically active.

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Heel” command can help you both have a safer, more enjoyable walk while strengthening your bond with each other.

How to Teach Heel Command to Your Shih Poo?

To teach your Shih Poo the heel command, you’ll want to follow these steps:

Start in a quiet, low-distraction area. Put your Shih Poo on a leash and stand beside them.
Hold a treat in your hand and place it near your leg, saying “heel” in a firm tone.
Take a few steps forward, making sure your Shih Poo stays close to your leg. If they stay in the correct position, give them the treat and praise them with a “good heel!”
If your Shih Poo starts to veer away, stop walking and give a light correction with the leash, saying “heel” again. Only use the leash correction if necessary, as the goal is for your Shih Poo to walk willingly and correctly beside you.
Continue this process, taking a few more steps each time before giving the treat and praise. Gradually increase the distance and time, and reduce the amount of treats you give as your Shih Poo becomes more comfortable with the command.
Practice in different places with varying levels of distraction, always keeping a close eye on your Shih Poo’s behavior and correcting them when necessary.

Remember: Consistency and patience are key when teaching your Shih Poo the heel command. Make sure to always use the same cue and be firm but gentle with your corrections. With time and practice, your Shih Poo will learn to heel like a pro!

Tips to Remember

To ensure that your Shih Poo learns the commands effectively, there are some tips that you need to keep in mind. These tips will help you to bring out the best in your furry friend.

Tip	Description
Be consistent	Consistency is key when it comes to training your Shih Poo. Use the same word each time for a particular command.
Be patient	Patience is vital while training your Shih Poo. Remember, it may take time to learn the commands, so don’t get frustrated if your furry friend does not understand it immediately.
Use positive reinforcement	Always use positive reinforcement when your Shih Poo gets a command right. This can be in the form of a treat or a shower of praise and affection.
Avoid punishment	Avoid punishing your Shih Poo for not following a command. Instead, try to figure out why he/she did not follow the command and work towards correcting it.
Keep training sessions short	Training sessions should be short and frequent. Avoid long training sessions as it can lead to exhaustion for both you and your furry friend.
Practice regularly	Practice the commands regularly, even after your Shih Poo has learned them. This will help to reinforce the learning and keep the commands fresh in your pet’s mind.

By following these tips, you are not only helping your pet to learn the commands, but also building a strong bond with your furry friend.

Conclusion

Taking the time to teach your Shih Poo basic commands is an important part of being a responsible dog owner. By teaching your furry friend these commands, you will help to ensure their safety, build your relationship with them, and create a well-behaved dog that can be easily managed in a variety of situations.

Remember to always be patient and consistent in your training. Using positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, will encourage your Shih Poo to continue to follow your commands. Additionally, using clear and concise cues and avoiding confusing language will help to ensure that your dog understands what you are asking of them.

While these five commands – sit, stay, come, down, and heel – are a great place to start, there are certainly many other commands you can teach your Shih Poo. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different training methods and find what works best for you and your furry friend.

Finally, always remember to continue training your Shih Poo throughout their life. Reinforcing their training with regular practice will help to ensure that they remain well-behaved and obedient, and will help to maintain the strong bond between you and your furry companion. With love, patience, and consistency, you can easily teach your Shih Poo these basic commands and enjoy the benefits of a well-trained dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I train my Shih Poo at any age?

Yes, you can start training your Shih Poo at any age. However, it is recommended to start training when they are still puppies, as they are more receptive to learning.

2. How long should a training session be?

A training session should last no longer than 15 minutes. It is better to have several short training sessions throughout the day than one long session.

3. Should I use treats to train my Shih Poo?

Yes, using treats is an effective way to train any dog. However, make sure to use small, soft treats that your Shih Poo can easily chew and swallow.

4. What should I do if my Shih Poo doesn’t respond to the training?

If your Shih Poo doesn’t respond to the training, it could be because they are not motivated. Try using a different type of treat, or take a break and try again later when they are more focused.

5. Can I train my Shih Poo alone, or do I need a professional trainer?

While a professional trainer can be helpful, you can train your Shih Poo on your own with patience and consistency. However, if you are having difficulty, consider seeking the help of a professional.

6. What should I do if my Shih Poo gets distracted during training?

If your Shih Poo gets distracted during training, try using a more interesting or higher value treat, or move to a quieter location with fewer distractions.

7. How many commands should I teach my Shih Poo?

You should start by teaching your Shih Poo the basic commands, such as Sit, Stay, Come, Down, and Heel. Once they have mastered these, you can move on to more advanced commands.

8. How often should I train my Shih Poo?

You should train your Shih Poo for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day. Training should be consistent, as this will help your Shih Poo learn faster.

9. Can training my Shih Poo improve their behavior?

Yes, training can improve your Shih Poo’s behavior by promoting good manners and reducing undesirable behavior such as jumping, digging, or chewing.

10. Should I use punishment to train my Shih Poo?

No, using punishment can be counterproductive and harm the bond you have with your dog. Instead, use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behavior with treats or praise.