Ultimate Guide to Potty Training Your Shih Tzu in an Apartment
Shih Tzus are one of the most popular dog breeds due to their friendly and outgoing personalities. However, potty training these adorable little companions can be a challenge, especially if you live in an apartment. In this blog post, we will provide you with some practical tips and tricks for potty training your Shih Tzu in an apartment.
Understanding Your Shih Tzu’s Potty Needs
The first step in potty training your Shih Tzu is understanding their potty needs. Shih Tzus have small bladders, which means they need to go to the bathroom more frequently than larger breeds. Puppies under six months old typically need to go every two to four hours. As your Shih Tzu grows older, they will be able to hold their bladder for longer periods.
Set a Potty Schedule
To help your Shih Tzu adjust to a potty schedule, take them outside to go to the bathroom at the same times every day. This can include first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime. Additionally, you should take your Shih Tzu outside every two to four hours during the day.
Observe Your Shih Tzu’s Behavior
Paying attention to your Shih Tzu’s behavior can help you anticipate when they need to go to the bathroom. Signs that your Shih Tzu needs to go include sniffing, circling, whining, or barking. When you notice these signs, take your Shih Tzu outside immediately.
Creating a Potty Area
Creating a designated potty area outside can help your Shih Tzu understand where they should go to the bathroom. This can be especially helpful if you live in an apartment without a yard.
Choose a Specific Spot
Choose a specific spot outside where you want your Shih Tzu to go to the bathroom. This can be a grassy area or a patch of dirt. Once you have chosen a spot, take your Shih Tzu there consistently so they can associate that area with going to the bathroom.
Use a Command
Using a command such as “go potty” or “do your business” can help your Shih Tzu understand what they are supposed to do in the designated potty area. Say the command consistently every time you take your Shih Tzu to the potty area.
Reward Good Behavior
When your Shih Tzu goes to the bathroom in the designated potty area, reward them with a treat or praise. This positive reinforcement will help your Shih Tzu associate going to the bathroom outside with a positive experience.
Preventing Accidents Inside
Preventing accidents inside is an important part of potty training your Shih Tzu in an apartment.
Supervise Your Shih Tzu
When you are at home, supervise your Shih Tzu closely to prevent accidents. If you cannot supervise your Shih Tzu, confine them to a small area such as a crate or playpen.
Use Potty Pads
If you cannot take your Shih Tzu outside every few hours, consider using potty pads inside. Place the pads in a designated area and encourage your Shih Tzu to go to the bathroom there. When your Shih Tzu goes to the bathroom on the pad, reward them with a treat or praise.
Clean Accidents Thoroughly
If your Shih Tzu has an accident inside, clean it up thoroughly to prevent them from going to the bathroom in the same spot again. Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any odors that may attract your Shih Tzu to the area.
Consistency is Key
Consistency is key when potty training your Shih Tzu in an apartment.
Be Patient
Potty training takes time and patience. Do not get frustrated if your Shih Tzu has accidents inside. Instead, stay consistent with your potty training routine and reward your Shih Tzu for good behavior.
Stick to a Routine
Stick to a consistent routine when potty training your Shih Tzu. Take them outside at the same times every day and use the same command
Don’t Punish Accidents
Never punish your Shih Tzu for having accidents inside. This can create fear and anxiety, which can make potty training more difficult. Instead, clean up the accident and move on.
Looking for more Shih Tzu potty training tips? Check out our articles on house training, potty training timing, general training tips, and crate training to help your furry friend with potty training in an apartment setting!
Conclusion
Potty training your Shih Tzu in an apartment can be a challenge, but with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, it is possible. By understanding your Shih Tzu’s potty needs, creating a designated potty area outside, preventing accidents inside, and being consistent, you can help your Shih Tzu become potty trained in no time. Remember to reward your Shih Tzu for good behavior and never punish them for accidents. With these tips and tricks, you and your Shih Tzu can enjoy a happy and accidents-free life in your apartment.
Britta Thygesen
A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make DogCareHacks a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.
