Step-by-Step Guide to Leash Train Your Shih Tzu

Matthew Farthing 27.04.2023 0

As a Shih Tzu owner, you may be wondering how to leash train your furry friend. The process of leash training can seem daunting, especially if your Shih Tzu is new to the idea of walking on a leash. But fear not, with patience and the right techniques, you can teach your Shih Tzu to walk on a leash like a pro. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to leash train your Shih Tzu, including tips for troubleshooting common issues and advanced training tips. Get ready to unlock a whole new world of outdoor adventures with your beloved companion.

Why Leash Training Your Shih Tzu is Important

Why Leash Training Your Shih Tzu is Important

Leash training your Shih Tzu is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. It has several advantages, which can be crucial for you and your furry friend. Here are the most important reasons why leash training is crucial for Shih Tzus:

Leash training your Shih Tzu can be important to keep them safe from potential harm. When your dog is walking without a leash, they can quickly run off, which can put them in danger. They can run towards the road, chase after another animal, or get lost in unfamiliar territory. A leash will give you more control and keep your Shih Tzu safe from harm.

As a pet owner, it’s important to be responsible for your dog’s actions. Leash training your Shih Tzu is an important aspect of being a responsible pet owner. It shows that you care about your dog’s safety and the safety of others. Using a leash in public places, and where it’s required by law, will lower the risk of incidents due to uncontrolled pets.

Leash training your Shih Tzu can result in building a stronger bond between the two of you. It can build trust that they are in safe hands and will teach them to follow your lead. It can also help your Shih Tzu to become more confident and reach out to the world around them in a more positive and less intimidating way.

If you want to learn more about the importance of leash training for Shih Tzus, click on this article.

Keep Your Shih Tzu Safe

Keeping your Shih Tzu safe is one of the most important reasons to leash train your furry friend. Without a proper leash training, your Shih Tzu can easily run into danger by chasing after cars or other animals, or simply by getting lost. This can be prevented by using the right equipment and properly training your Shih Tzu to walk on a leash. In fact, using a leash is so important that it is required by law in many places. Leash laws vary, but one thing is certain: a well-trained leashed dog is less likely to cause accidents, get lost or cause stress to other animals and people. Leash training your Shih Tzu is not only important for their safety, but also for the safety of others. To learn how to leash train a Shih Tzu, continue reading this article.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Being a responsible pet owner means taking care of your Shih Tzu’s well-being, including their physical and mental health. Leash training your dog is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. It’s not only about following the law but also ensuring your pet’s safety.

Using a leash correctly ensures that your Shih Tzu is protected from potential accidents, such as running onto a busy street. Even if you have a well-trained dog, it’s impossible to predict their behavior entirely. By law, every dog must be on a leash when out in public. So use one every time you take your Shih Tzu out for a walk.

Aside from safety, leash training also helps keep your dog under control while outside. Shih Tzus have a curious nature, and they are prone to wandering off to explore their surroundings. With a leash, you can protect them from harm and prevent them from getting lost.

Proper leash training also helps build trust and bonding between you and your Shih Tzu, which is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. When your dog trusts you, they are more likely to obey your commands and listen to you. This can be important in critical situations, such as if your Shih Tzu sees something dangerous and you need them to stop immediately.

You can also teach your dog new commands during leash training, which can help stimulate their minds and boost their confidence. This form of training can help you address underlying behavioral issues that may arise while walking with your Shih Tzu or socializing them with other dogs.

Leash training your Shih Tzu is not just about using the right equipment. It’s about building a bond and trust with your dog while also ensuring their safety. By following positive reinforcement techniques and avoiding common mistakes such as leash pulling or dealing with an overly excited dog, you can make sure that both you and your furry buddy enjoy your walks together.

Do:	Don’t:
Use a leash every time you take your Shih Tzu out	Yank or pull on the leash every time you want your Shih Tzu to move
Choose a leash that is the right size and length for your Shih Tzu’s needs	Leave your Shih Tzu unattended while on a leash
Focus on positive reinforcement techniques and rewards	Punish or scold your Shih Tzu for not walking on a leash
Take time to socialize your Shih Tzu with other dogs and people	Expect your Shih Tzu to walk perfectly on a leash immediately
Be consistent with your training and use the same commands every time	Use a retractable leash, which can be dangerous for both you and your Shih Tzu

As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to leash train your Shih Tzu properly. This ensures their safety, helps control their curious nature while outside, and builds trust and bonding between you and your furry buddy. By following the right techniques and avoiding common mistakes, you can turn your walks into fun and stress-free experiences for both you and your Shih Tzu.

Build Trust and Bonding

Leash training your Shih Tzu is not just about teaching them basic commands, it’s also about building trust and bonding. By spending quality time with your furry friend, teaching them new skills and making them feel secure, you can strengthen your relationship with them. Through leash training, you can show your Shih Tzu that you are their protector and provider, while they learn to trust and depend on you.

Here are a few tips to help build trust and bonding during leash training:

Use positive reinforcement- reward good behaviors such as walking nicely on the leash, following commands, and staying close to you. This will encourage your Shih Tzu to repeat those behaviors again, and they will learn to associate the leash with positive experiences.
Be patient and consistent- leash training takes time, so don’t rush your furry friend or get frustrated if they don’t learn quickly. Take small steps and progress at their pace. Consistency is key, so make sure to use the same commands and techniques each time you go for a walk.
Make it a positive experience- leash training should be a fun and enjoyable activity for both you and your Shih Tzu. Take breaks to play and explore, or to give them a little treat. This will help make the experience more enjoyable and build a positive association with the leash.
Watch your body language- dogs are very good at picking up on human body language, so make sure to be calm and relaxed during training. If you are anxious or tense, your Shih Tzu may pick up on this and become apprehensive themselves. Remember to be patient and stay positive.

By incorporating these tips into your leash training, you can build a strong bond with your Shih Tzu while also teaching them important skills. As you continue to train and gain their trust, you’ll be able to take them on more adventures together and create lasting memories.

Getting Started

Preparation is Key: Getting Started with Leash Training for Your Shih Tzu

Before you start leash training your Shih Tzu, it’s important to prepare yourself and your furry friend for the process. The following steps will help ensure that you and your pup are ready to begin:

1. Choose the Right Equipment

The first step is investing in the right equipment. A standard leash, no longer than six feet, is perfect for leash training a small dog like a Shih Tzu. A retractable leash is not recommended for leash training because it does not provide enough control.

A comfortable and properly fitting harness or collar is also essential. Harnesses are recommended because they are less likely to cause neck injuries than collars. Make sure the harness isn’t too tight or too loose—there should be enough room to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s skin.

For more information on the different types of leashes and their uses, check out our guide to Shih Tzu leashes and their uses.

2. Choose the Right Time and Place

The next step is to choose the right time and place to start leash training your Shih Tzu. Ideally, you want a quiet and safe environment with minimal distractions.

Start by introducing your Shih Tzu to the leash and getting them used to wearing the harness or collar inside your home. Allow them to sniff and explore the leash, harness, and collar while providing positive reinforcement.

When you feel your Shih Tzu is ready, it’s time to move outside. Before you begin your training session, make sure your dog has had a chance to relieve themselves. This will help prevent distractions during the training process.

You can also use this time to socialize your Shih Tzu with other dogs in the area to improve their walking behavior. Read our guide on how to socialize your Shih Tzu during walks.

3. Patience and Positive Reinforcement

Remember to be patient with your Shih Tzu during the leash training process. They may take longer to adjust to wearing a harness and walking on a leash than other breeds.

Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, verbal praise, and petting, to encourage your dog to walk with you. Reward your dog each time they perform a desired behavior, such as walking without pulling, stopping when you stop, or heeling at your side.

For more information on teaching your Shih Tzu how to walk on a loose leash, check out our guide on how to teach your Shih Tzu to walk on a loose leash.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu. Practice regularly, and don’t get discouraged if your Shih Tzu doesn’t catch on immediately.

In the next section, we’ll go over the step-by-step process of leash training your Shih Tzu so that you can begin to develop a strong and trusting bond with your furry friend.

Choose the Right Equipment

Investing in the right equipment is crucial for successful leash training. You want to make sure that your Shih Tzu feels comfortable and secure while on the leash, and that the equipment you choose is appropriate for their size, breed, and personality. The right equipment can also make a huge difference in preventing common issues, such as leash pulling. To learn more about overcoming leash pulling, check out our article on Shih Tzu leash pulling. Let’s explore what types of equipment you should consider when leash training your furry friend.

Choose the Right Time and Place

When it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu, choosing the right time and place to train them is crucial. Here are a few tips on how to make sure you have the best environment for leash training:

Choose a quiet and low-distraction location: It’s important to choose a location that is relatively quiet and has few distractions. This will help your Shih Tzu focus on the training and avoid being too overwhelmed.
Pick a time when your Shih Tzu is calm and relaxed: Your dog is more likely to be receptive to leash training when they are relaxed and calm. Avoid training immediately after mealtime or when your dog is overly excited or hyperactive.
Avoid bad weather: Bad weather conditions such as rain or extreme heat can cause discomfort to your Shih Tzu and create distractions, making it difficult for them to focus on the training. Always choose a time and place that will be comfortable for your dog.
Choose a familiar environment: Start your leash training in an environment that your Shih Tzu is familiar with. This could be your backyard or a nearby park that your dog has been to before. This will help them feel more comfortable and at ease during the training process.

By following these tips, you will be able to create the optimal environment for leash training your Shih Tzu. Remember, patience and consistency are key in successful leash training.

The Leash Training Process

Once you have the right equipment and you’ve chosen the right time and place to start, it’s time to begin the leash training process with your Shih Tzu. Leash training takes patience and practice, but with the right approach, your furry friend will soon be walking nicely by your side with a leash.

Start Slow

To begin with, make sure your Shih Tzu is comfortable with wearing the leash. Let them explore the leash by smelling it and getting used to the weight of it. After a few minutes, attach the leash to their harness or collar and let them drag it around for a bit so they can get accustomed to the feeling of it.

Once they seem comfortable, pick up the leash and start slowly walking around your house or in a quiet outdoor area. Don’t force them to walk on a specific side, just let them explore and get used to the feeling of the leash without pulling.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu. Use treats, praise, and petting to encourage them to walk beside you or to come when you call their name. Be patient – this is a process that takes time. Don’t punish your dog if they make a mistake; instead, simply redirect them with a treat or a toy and praise them when they respond positively.

Be Consistent

Consistency is the key to success when it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu. Establish a routine and stick to it. Take your dog out for a walk at the same time every day, and make sure you use the same verbal cues and commands every time. This will help your dog understand what you want from them and set them up for success.

Practice Makes Perfect

Leash training your Shih Tzu takes time and effort, so be patient and keep practicing. Start with short walks and gradually work your way up to longer ones. Reward your dog for good behavior and keep reinforcing positive leash manners.

Remember, every dog is different, and some may take longer to leash train than others. However, by following these steps and remaining consistent, you will eventually have a well-trained Shih Tzu that loves to go on walks with you.

Start Slow

When it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu, taking things slow is essential for both you and your furry companion. Remember, it’s a new experience for them, so it’s important to go at a pace that they feel comfortable with. Giving your pup time to adjust and get used to the equipment and the process is key to a successful training outcome. Here are some tips to help you get started at a leisurely pace.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Leash training can be a challenging task, but it is important to remember that positive reinforcement is the best way to train your Shih Tzu. Here are some helpful tips for using positive reinforcement in your leash training:

1. Reward good behavior: Every time your Shih Tzu acts appropriately while on a leash, reward them with a treat, praise, or a pet. This will make them more likely to repeat the behavior in the future.

2. Avoid using punishment: Punishing your Shih Tzu for bad behavior can actually make things worse. Instead, focus on rewarding good behavior and redirecting bad behavior using positive techniques.

3. Be patient: It may take some time for your Shih Tzu to understand what behavior you expect from them on a leash. Remember to remain patient and consistent in your training.

4. Use a clicker: A clicker can be a helpful tool for leash training. The sound of the clicker serves as a marker for good behavior and can help your Shih Tzu understand what you expect from them.

5. Make it fun: Leash training doesn’t have to be boring! Incorporate fun activities into your training sessions, like playing games or going on short walks.

Remember, the key to successful leash training is to stay positive and consistent. With patience and perseverance, you can help your Shih Tzu become a well-behaved and happy walking companion.

Be Consistent

One of the most important aspects of leash training your Shih Tzu is consistency. It is important to maintain a consistent training routine so that your furry friend can learn and adapt faster. Here are some tips on how you can be consistent in your leash training:

Use the same words: When training your Shih Tzu, use the same words consistently. For example, if you say “come” to call out your pet during training, be sure to only use that word. This will help your Shih Tzu understand what you want them to do and what to expect.
Train at the same time and place: Training your Shih Tzu at the same time and place every day is crucial for consistency. This will help your pet learn what is expected of them during training and make it easier for them to learn and follow commands. Try to find a quiet, distraction-free area where you can focus on training without any interruptions.
Keep sessions short and sweet: Training sessions should be short, around 10-15 minutes, and held at the same time every day. This will help maintain consistency and also prevent your Shih Tzu from becoming bored or restless during training.
Be patient: Consistency requires patience, especially when it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu. It may take some time for your furry friend to get used to wearing a leash, following commands, and walking on a leash. Keep practicing and be consistent with the training routine to help your pet learn and adapt to the new experience.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu. Keep in mind that every pet is different, and it may take longer for some to learn than others. No matter how long it takes, be patient and stay consistent with your training routine. With time, patience, and consistency, your Shih Tzu will become a great walking companion on a leash.

Practice Makes Perfect

Leash training your Shih Tzu is not an overnight process. It requires patience, consistency, and a lot of practice. The more practice sessions you have with your furry friend, the quicker they will learn to be comfortable on a leash. Here are some tips to make your practice sessions with your Shih Tzu more effective:

Start Short: Start with short leash walks around your backyard, neighborhood or any quiet area without much noise or distractions. As your furry friend gets more comfortable on the leash, you can gradually increase the distance of the walks.
Make it Fun: Dogs love a good playtime. Incorporate fun activities and games into your practice sessions. You can try playing fetch, hide and seek or any other game your Shih Tzu enjoys. Remember to reward your pet with treats and praise when they follow your instructions well.
Be Consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu. Aim for at least one to two practice sessions per day, but space them out to prevent overwhelming your furry friend. Try to maintain the same routine during each practice session.
Stay Focused: It’s easy to get distracted during the practice sessions, but it’s important that you stay focused on your Shih Tzu’s behavior. Pay attention to their posture, body language, and whether or not they are pulling on the leash or behaving appropriately.
Try Different Directions: Practicing walking in different directions helps your Shih Tzu recognize that they need to follow you irrespective of the direction you take. This helps enhance their obedience and ensures your control over them when you’re out in public.
End on a Positive Note: Always end each practice session on a positive note, even if it wasn’t the best session. Give your Shih Tzu a treat, praise them, tell them they did a great job and show them some love. They should feel motivated to continue with the practice sessions in the next session.

Remember that every Shih Tzu is unique and may learn at their own pace. Some might get comfortable with wearing a leash within a few practice sessions while others can take a little while. With patience and consistency, your furry friend will soon become a pro at walking on a leash.

Troubleshooting

After starting the leash training process with your Shih Tzu, you may experience some challenges along the way. Remember that every dog is unique and may require different techniques to overcome certain issues. Here are some common problems and solutions to help troubleshoot your leash training process.

My Shih Tzu Won’t Walk with a Leash: If your Shih Tzu is reluctant to walk with a leash, try incorporating the leash into your daily activities around the house. Attach the leash to your dog’s collar and let them wander around while dragging the leash behind them. This will help your dog get used to the sensation of the leash being attached. Gradually, you can pick up the leash and walk with your dog, offering treats and praise for positive behavior.

My Shih Tzu is Too Excited: Some Shih Tzus can become overly excited when they see the leash. To calm them down, try exercising your dog before the leash training session. This can tire them out and create a calmer state of mind. Alternatively, you can try desensitizing your dog to the leash by leaving it out in the open, allowing your dog to investigate it without the pressure of immediate training.

My Shih Tzu is Pulling on the Leash: If your Shih Tzu is constantly pulling on the leash, it’s important to address this behavior to prevent injury to your dog and ensure a more enjoyable experience for you both. When your dog starts to pull, stop walking and stand still. Wait until your dog releases tension on the leash before continuing. Alternatively, you can try changing direction when your dog starts pulling, which will redirect your dog’s focus and hopefully reduce the pulling behavior over time.

Remember to be patient and consistent with your training techniques. With time and effort, your Shih Tzu will become a skilled and enthusiastic leash walker.

My Shih Tzu Won’t Walk with a Leash

Leash training your Shih Tzu can be a challenging process, and one of the most frustrating issues that many pet owners encounter is when their furry friend refuses to walk with a leash. This can be especially perplexing if your pup had no issues with the leash previously. However, with patience, persistence, and the right approach, you can help your Shih Tzu overcome their reluctance and confidently walk with a leash. In this section, we will cover some common reasons why your Shih Tzu may not walk with a leash and provide some effective solutions to help you and your pup succeed.

My Shih Tzu is Too Excited

It’s common for Shih Tzus to get too excited during leash training, and this can lead to a lack of focus and disobedience. If your Shih Tzu is too excited during training, try these tips:

Take Breaks: If your Shih Tzu is overly excited, take a break and allow them to calm down before continuing with the training. You can take a short break, play with them or give them a treat to help them relax.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Rather than scolding your Shih Tzu for being too excited, use positive reinforcement to encourage calm behavior. Reward calm behavior with praise and treats, and stop the training session if your Shih Tzu becomes overly excited.
Reduce Stimulation: If your Shih Tzu is getting too excited due to external stimuli, reduce the level of stimulation. Avoid training in areas with high traffic, loud noises or other distractions that may excite your Shih Tzu.
Practice Regularly: Regular training can help reduce overstimulation and excitement. By training your Shih Tzu regularly, they will become more accustomed to the process, and their excitement levels will decrease over time.

Keep in mind that every Shih Tzu is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another. Be patient with your furry friend and try different approaches until you find what works best for them. With time and consistency, your Shih Tzu can become a well-behaved, leash-trained dog that you can be proud of.

My Shih Tzu is Pulling on the Leash

Pulling on the leash is a common problem that many Shih Tzu owners face during leash training. It can be frustrating and even dangerous if not addressed. Here are some tips on how to address this issue:

DO	DON’T
Be patient and persistent. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your Shih Tzu’s leash training.	Do not punish your Shih Tzu for pulling on the leash. Punishment will only create fear and anxiety, which can worsen the problem.
Stop walking when your Shih Tzu pulls on the leash. Stand still and wait until your dog loosens the leash before continuing. This will teach your Shih Tzu that pulling on the leash will lead to less walking time.	Do not yank or pull your Shih Tzu back when it pulls. This can harm your dog’s neck and worsen the pulling behavior.
Use positive reinforcement when your Shih Tzu walks without pulling. Give treats and praise to reinforce the positive behavior.	Do not use retractable leashes. They can cause injury to your Shih Tzu and make it more difficult to train your dog to walk on a leash properly.
Use a harness instead of a collar to prevent choking and damage to the trachea.	Do not use choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars. These devices can cause pain and injury to your Shih Tzu and worsen the pulling behavior.

Remember, leash training is a process. Do not become discouraged if your Shih Tzu continues to pull on the leash. Stick to the training plan, remain calm, and be patient. With time, your Shih Tzu will learn to walk on a leash without pulling.

Advanced Training Tips

Once your Shih Tzu has mastered the basics of leash training, you may want to expand their skillset with some more advanced training techniques. Here are a few tips to help take your Shih Tzu’s leash training to the next level:

Teach Your Shih Tzu to Heel: Once your dog is comfortable walking on a leash, you can start to teach them to heel. To do this, walk with your dog on a loose leash and have some treats ready. When your Shih Tzu walks next to you without pulling, reward them with a treat. If they start to pull, stop walking and wait for them to calm down before continuing. Practice this often and for longer periods of time, so your Shih Tzu gets used to walking next to you.

Teach Your Shih Tzu to Stop and Stay: Another useful advanced technique is teaching your dog to stop and stay on command. Start by having your Shih Tzu sit, then hold a treat in front of their nose and say “stay.” Take a few steps back and wait a few seconds. If your Shih Tzu stays, reward them with the treat. Practice this for longer periods of time, with more distance between you and your dog. Eventually, your Shih Tzu will learn to stay still even when there are distractions around.

Remember that advanced training takes time, patience, and a lot of practice. Don’t expect your Shih Tzu to master these skills overnight. Also, be sure to use positive reinforcement, treats, and praise to encourage your dog to learn. If your Shih Tzu is struggling, break up the training sessions into shorter, more manageable blocks of time. With persistence and consistency, your Shih Tzu will learn these advanced leash training techniques and become a well-behaved walking companion.

Teach Your Shih Tzu to Heel

Do you want to take your leash training to the next level and teach your Shih Tzu to walk calmly beside you? Teaching your furry friend to heel is a great way to improve their obedience and make walks more enjoyable for both of you. By using positive reinforcement techniques and consistency, you can teach your Shih Tzu to walk with you and stay by your side. Keep reading to learn how to train your Shih Tzu to heel like a pro.

Teach Your Shih Tzu to Stop and Stay

Training your Shih Tzu to stop and stay is an essential step in leash training. It will teach your furry buddy self-control and reinforce obedience in your fur baby. Here are the steps to follow:

Start with Basic Commands: Before you begin teaching your Shih Tzu to stop and stay, make sure that they have mastered basic commands such as sit, come, and heel.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is the key to successful training. Every time your Shih Tzu listens and follows your command, reward them with treats and praise. Be patient, and repeat the training several times.

Practice in Confined Spaces: Start the training in a confined space such as a fence-enclosed yard or a small room. This will keep your Shih Tzu focused and prevent them from getting distracted.

Teach Them the Stop Command: To teach your Shih Tzu to stop, hold the leash tightly while giving the verbal command “stop.” Stop your movements, and stand still. If your Shih Tzu follows the command, reward them. Practice this for several days until your Shih Tzu is comfortable with the stop command.

Teach Them the Stay Command: Once your Shih Tzu is taught to stop, proceed to the “stay” command. Give the verbal command “stay” and hold the leash tightly. Move a few steps away from your Shih Tzu and wait for a few seconds. If your Shih Tzu stays in position, reward them with a treat and praise. Repeat the training, gradually increasing the distance and duration.

Combine the Two Commands: Once your Shih Tzu has mastered the stop and stay commands separately, combine them. Ask your Shih Tzu to stop and then give the stay command. The goal is to have your Shih Tzu stop and stay until released.

It’s crucial to be patient, consistent, and persistent while training your Shih Tzu. Always use positive reinforcement to encourage your furry friend to obey you. With some practice and patience, your Shih Tzu will become well-trained and obedient!

Leash Training Dos and Don’ts

When it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu, there are certain dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind. These will help you make progress faster and ensure that your furry friend is not uncomfortable or unhappy during the process.

Do:

Start training your Shih Tzu as early as possible so that they get used to the leash and collar right away.
Choose a quiet and peaceful location to start your training sessions, free from noise and distractions that may scare or confuse your dog.
Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and toys to reward good behavior and encourage your dog to follow your lead.
Be consistent with your commands, using the same cues and signals every time so that your Shih Tzu knows what is expected of them.
Be patient and calm during the training sessions, keeping in mind that leash training is a gradual process that takes time and perseverance.
Allow your Shih Tzu to explore and sniff around, providing them with enough freedom while keeping them on the leash.
Use a harness instead of a collar to ensure that your dog does not pull or choke while walking on the leash.

Don’t:

Never yank or pull on the leash as this may hurt your dog and create negative associations with leash training.
Do not force your dog to walk on the leash if they are not comfortable or ready yet. Give them some time to get used to the feeling of the leash and try again later.
Do not use harsh or punitive training methods such as hitting, scolding, or shouting at your dog, as this may damage your relationship with them and result in fearful or aggressive behavior.
Do not allow your Shih Tzu to lead the way or pull on the leash, as this may set a bad precedent and create bad habits that are tough to break later on.
Never attach the leash to your Shih Tzu’s collar if they are prone to pulling, as this may cause breathing difficulties, neck injuries, or even choking.
Do not let your Shih Tzu off the leash in public places unless they are well-trained, obedient, and responsive to your commands.

By keeping these dos and don’ts in mind, you can make the leash training process easier, safer, and more fun for both you and your Shih Tzu. Remember to stay positive, consistent, and patient throughout the process, and celebrate every small victory along the way. With your love, attention, and care, your Shih Tzu will soon become a well-trained and well-behaved companion that you can be proud of.

Do
When it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu, there are certain things you should and should not do. Following these guidelines will not only ensure a successful training process, but also make it a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion. So, what are the do’s of leash training? Here are some important practices to keep in mind.

Don’t

When it comes to leash training your Shih Tzu, there are some things you should avoid doing to ensure a successful training experience for both you and your furry friend. Here are some important “don’ts” of leash training:

Don’t	Explanation
Use a retractable leash	Retractable leashes can make it difficult to control your dog, and your Shih Tzu may end up pulling on the leash.
Pull on the leash	Pulling on the leash can harm your dog’s neck and throat, and it can also make the training process more difficult by making your Shih Tzu more resistant to being leashed.
Get frustrated or angry	Training takes patience and time, and becoming angry or upset with your pet can harm your bond and make them less willing to learn.
Allow your Shih Tzu to walk in front of you	Allowing your Shih Tzu to lead you on a walk can create dominance issues and make training more difficult.
Let your Shih Tzu pull you in different directions	It’s important to establish control and teach your dog to walk beside you, not pull you in different directions.
Train for too long	Your Shih Tzu may become tired, bored or agitated if the training sessions are too long. It is advisable to keep training sessions between 15 to 20 minutes and end on a positive note.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to create a positive training environment for your Shih Tzu and establish a strong bond while teaching them to walk obediently on a leash. Remember, patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency are the keys to a successful leash training experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

As someone who is trying to leash train a Shih Tzu, it’s common to have some questions. Here are a few frequently asked questions and their answers:

How long does it take to leash train a Shih Tzu?
The length of time it takes to leash train a Shih Tzu varies depending on the dog’s personality and your consistency in training. Some Shih Tzus may learn quickly within a few weeks, while others may take a few months. It is important to be patient and consistent in your training.

What type of leash should I use for my Shih Tzu?
When choosing a leash for your Shih Tzu, it’s important to pick one that is appropriate for their size and strength. A lightweight, 6-foot nylon leash is usually ideal. Retractable leashes are not recommended for training, as they can make it difficult to control your dog and reinforce pulling behavior.

Can I use treats to train my Shih Tzu to walk on a leash?
Yes, using treats as positive reinforcement is an effective way to leash train your Shih Tzu. When they walk beside you or stop pulling, reward them with a treat. Make sure not to overdo it on the treats, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.

What if my Shih Tzu resists leash training?
If your Shih Tzu is hesitant or resistant to leash training, start with shorter training sessions and increase the time gradually. You can also try using higher-value treats, like small bits of chicken or beef, and make sure to praise them for their progress. If your Shih Tzu continues to resist, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer.

Can I leash train my Shih Tzu if they are older?
Yes, it is possible to leash train an older Shih Tzu. However, it may take longer and require more patience and persistence. Training at a slower pace and rewarding small steps of progress can help encourage an older Shih Tzu to learn.

Conclusion

In conclusion, leash training your Shih Tzu is a crucial process that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By using the right equipment, choosing the right time and place, and following a step-by-step training process, you can teach your Shih Tzu to walk with you on a leash.

Remember that leash training is not only important for the safety of your pet, but it also helps you become a responsible pet owner and strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you can overcome any challenges or issues that may arise during the training process.

If you encounter any issues, remember to troubleshoot and adjust your training techniques accordingly. Whether your Shih Tzu is too excited or pulling on the leash, there are many ways to overcome these challenges and continue progressing in the training process.

By building upon the basics of leash training, you can also advance your Shih Tzu’s skills and teach them to heel or stop and stay on command. Just remember to maintain a positive attitude, celebrate small successes along the way, and most importantly, to have fun with your furry friend.

So, rest assured that with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, you can successfully leash train your Shih Tzu and enjoy many adventures together. Happy training!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to start leash training my Shih Tzu?

It’s best to start leash training your Shih Tzu when they are between 3 to 6 months old.

Can my Shih Tzu be leash trained if they are already an adult?

Yes, leash training can be done at any age, but it may take longer for an adult Shih Tzu to get accustomed to the leash.

What equipment do I need for leash training my Shih Tzu?

You’ll need a properly fitting harness or collar, a lightweight leash, and some treats as positive reinforcement.

How long does it take to leash train a Shih Tzu?

It can take several weeks for a Shih Tzu to become fully comfortable and well-trained on leash.

What should I do if my Shih Tzu refuses to walk with a leash?

Try using positive reinforcement techniques to encourage your Shih Tzu to walk while on the leash, and start with very short distances to build up their confidence.