Potty Training Your Shih Tzu: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting a new Shih Tzu puppy can be an exciting experience, but with it comes the important task of potty training. If you’re a first-time owner, it’s natural to wonder how long it will take to potty train your furry friend. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer, as the timeline for potty training a Shih Tzu can vary based on several factors. However, don’t let that discourage you. With some patience and practice, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu. In this article, we will explore the various factors that can affect potty training, when to start the process, preparation, the different techniques you can use, and common problems and solutions. So, let’s jump into the world of potty training your Shih Tzu!

Factors Affecting Potty Training

When it comes to potty training your Shih Tzu, there are several factors that can impact the process. From breed characteristics to age and health, it’s important to take these variables into consideration to establish a solid foundation for successful potty training. Understanding these factors will help you tailor an approach that works best for your furry friend, whether you live in a house or an apartment. In the following sections, we’ll delve into these factors in more detail to help you better understand what to expect throughout the potty training process. For more tips on potty training your Shih Tzu, check out our Shih Tzu Potty Training Guide.

Breed Characteristics

Breed Characteristics

When it comes to potty training, breed characteristics play a significant role in how long it takes to train your Shih Tzu. Shih Tzu are known for being intelligent and obedient dogs, which makes them an ideal breed for potty training. However, their stubborn nature may also make potty training more challenging than it would be with other breeds.

Shih Tzu’s small size also affects their ability to hold their bladder. As a toy breed, Shih Tzu have small bladders and may need to use the bathroom more frequently than larger breeds. This means that consistent and frequent potty breaks are essential during the training process.

Another factor that affects potty training is the age at which you begin training. Shih Tzu puppies have a shorter attention span and may take longer to learn good potty habits. On average, Shih Tzu puppies can be fully potty trained between 4 and 6 months of age. However, some puppies may take longer, while others may learn faster.

It is essential to understand your Shih Tzu’s unique characteristics and needs to develop an effective potty training plan. By being patient, consistent, and using positive reinforcement techniques, you can help your Shih Tzu learn good potty habits and become a well-behaved canine companion.

To learn more about specific potty training techniques for Shih Tzu, check out Shih Tzu Potty Training Tips.

Age

The age of a Shih Tzu is an essential factor to consider when it comes to potty training. Just like humans, puppies have a learning curve, and it takes time for them to get used to new habits and routines. It is crucial to start potty training Shih Tzu puppies early, preferably between 12 to 16 weeks old. It is at this age that they start becoming familiar with their surroundings and have better bowel and bladder control.

At this stage, the puppy’s attention span may be short, so it’s important to keep the training sessions short and consistent. Experts recommend that training sessions should not last more than 15 minutes at a time. Over time, the puppy’s bladder muscles develop, allowing them to hold their bladder for longer periods.

A Shih Tzu that is trained later in life may take longer to learn acceptable potty behavior. The training process may become more frustrating for both the owner and the puppy. In some cases, the dog may develop bad habits, such as going potty inside the house instead of outside.

As the puppy grows older, they may experience physical changes, such as an increase in bladder and bowel control. This means that they will need to go out less often. However, it’s important to note that older Shih Tzus may require more frequent potty breaks due to age-related health issues, such as bladder or kidney problems.

In conclusion, the age at which a Shih Tzu is trained affects the potty training process. Starting early through consistent training sessions and patience helps the puppy to develop good potty habits that will last a lifetime. For more information on the common mistakes to avoid during potty training, please read our article on Shih Tzu potty training mistakes to avoid.

Health

Ensuring your Shih Tzu’s health is in order is an important factor in successful potty training. If your furry companion is experiencing any health issues, it may affect their ability to control their bladder and bowels. Here are some health-related factors to consider:

It’s important to address any health concerns before starting with the potty training process. If your Shih Tzu has ongoing health issues that affect their potty training, work with your vet to develop a plan that can help you and your furry friend. Remember, being patient and consistent in your training approach while addressing health concerns can go a long way in achieving potty training success.

For more information on accidents during potty training, click here.

When to Start Potty Training

Before jumping right into potty training your Shih Tzu, it’s important to understand when is the right time to start. Most experts recommend starting between the ages of 12 to 16 weeks old. At this point, your Shih Tzu puppy will have better bladder control and be more receptive to learning new habits.

It’s also essential to consider your puppy’s health before starting potty training. If your Shih Tzu is sick or dealing with a health issue, it may not be the best time to start training. Always consult with your vet before starting any training program.

Another factor to keep in mind is your own schedule. Potty training requires a lot of patience, consistency, and time commitment. If you’re too busy or not able to dedicate enough time to the training process, it could lead to frustration for both you and your puppy.

If you’re adopting an older Shih Tzu who has not been potty trained, the training process may take longer than if you were starting with a younger puppy. In this case, it’s essential to be patient and consistent with training.

By starting at the right time and taking into account your puppy’s health and your own schedule, you can set yourself up for success in potty training your Shih Tzu. To learn more about the methods and techniques for potty training, check out our resources on crate training, potty pads vs. going outside, and potty training in apartments.

Preparing for Potty Training

Getting ready for the potty training process can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and successful experience for both you and your Shih Tzu. Before diving into the techniques and methods of potty training, it’s important to establish a solid foundation for your pup’s learning. This means ensuring that you have all the necessary supplies, setting up a designated potty space, and creating a clear routine for your furry friend. Let’s explore some helpful tips and tricks for preparing for the potty training journey.

Supplies

When it comes to potty training your Shih Tzu, having the right supplies can make a huge difference in your success. Here are some essential supplies you should consider before beginning the training process:

Having these supplies on hand can make your life as a pet owner much easier during the potty training process. And remember, patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key!

Designate a Space

One important factor in successfully potty training your Shih Tzu is designating a specific space for them to go potty. This not only helps your puppy understand where they should go, but it also helps prevent accidents in other areas of your home.

Choosing a space: When choosing a space for your puppy to go potty, consider an area that is easily accessible but away from high traffic areas. This space should also be easily cleaned, as accidents are bound to happen during the training process.

Creating a designated area: Once you have chosen the space, create a designated area using a puppy pen or baby gate. This will help your puppy understand that this space is for potty only, and not for play or sleeping. Alternatively, you can use a specific area in your yard for your puppy to go potty, but make sure it is fenced and secure.

Using Pee Pads: If you plan on using pee pads for indoor potty training, place them only in the designated area. This will help your puppy understand that this is the area where they are supposed to go potty.

Regular cleaning: It’s important to regularly clean the designated area to prevent odors from building up. Use pet-safe cleaning products to eliminate any smells and to keep the area clean for your puppy.

Consistency: Be consistent with using the designated space for potty training. This consistency will help your puppy understand that this is their only space for potty, and will help prevent accidents in other areas of your home.

By designating a specific space for potty training, you give your Shih Tzu the best chance to be successfully potty trained. Remember to be patient and consistent, and your puppy will eventually understand where they should go potty.

Establish a Routine

Creating a routine is essential to successfully potty train your Shih Tzu. Dogs thrive on consistency and structure, so establishing a set routine for feeding, sleeping, and bathroom breaks is crucial. This will not only help your Shih Tzu learn when it’s time to go outside, but it will also help you predict when accidents are more likely to occur.

Feeding Time: Feed your Shih Tzu at regular intervals, preferably at the same time every day. This will help regulate their bowel movements and make it easier to anticipate when they will need to go outside.

Sleeping Time: Dogs need plenty of rest and sleep, so establish a consistent sleeping schedule. Shih Tzus are known for their love of napping, so make sure they have a comfortable bed or space to rest.

Bathroom Breaks: Take your Shih Tzu outside to their designated potty area at regular intervals throughout the day. This could be after meals, after naps, and before bedtime. Use a command like “go potty” to help them associate the action with the command.

Play Time: Playtime is an essential part of a dog’s routine, and it should be incorporated into your Shih Tzu’s schedule. This will keep them active and help them burn off excess energy, making it easier for them to focus during potty training.

Note: Remember that during the potty training process, your Shih Tzu will need more frequent bathroom breaks. Be patient and take them outside as often as necessary to avoid accidents in the house. As they become more accustomed to the routine, you can gradually increase the time between bathroom breaks.

Creating a routine takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the long run. Your Shih Tzu will feel more secure and comfortable with a predictable schedule, and it will make potty training a smoother process for both you and your furry friend.

Potty Training Techniques

When it comes to potty training your Shih Tzu, there are various techniques you can try to find the one that works best for your furry friend. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, and some dogs may respond better to certain methods than others. As a responsible pet parent, it’s important to explore different options and choose the one that suits your lifestyle, environment, and dog’s personality. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most popular potty training techniques and how to implement them effectively. So, let’s dive in!

Crate Training

Crate training is one of the most effective potty training techniques for Shih Tzus. It is based on the principle that dogs naturally do not like to soil their sleeping areas. Here are the steps to successfully crate train your Shih Tzu:

• Choose the right crate: Choose a crate that is just the right size for your Shih Tzu. It should be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, stretch out, but not so big that they can use one end as a bathroom and the other as sleeping quarters. If you have a puppy, choose a crate that can be adjusted as they grow.
• Gradual introduction: Before shutting your dog inside the crate, let them get comfortable with it. Place some treats, toys, blankets or anything your dog likes inside the crate and let them explore it at their pace. Gradually, introduce short periods where your Shih Tzu is inside the crate, while you are in the same room.
• Lengthen time in the crate: Once your dog is comfortable inside the crate, start lengthening the time they spend inside it. Leave the room for short periods while they stay in the crate. Gradually increase the amount of time you are away from the room while your dog remains in the crate.
• Introduce a schedule: Introduce a set schedule for when your dog is allowed outside to use the bathroom. Take them outside after meals, after waking up from a nap, and after playtime. Always make sure to take them outside before placing them back in their crate.
• Monitor behavior: While crate training, monitor your dog’s behavior. If you notice your dog whining, barking, or pawing at the crate, it is an indication that they need to be taken outside to use the bathroom.
• Reinforce good behavior: When your Shih Tzu successfully uses the bathroom outside, give them lots of praise and a treat. This reinforces the idea that going outside is a good thing.

With consistent crate training, your Shih Tzu will learn to associate their crate as a safe and comfortable space, and will learn to hold their bladder and bowel movements. However, it is important to note that crate training should never be used as a punishment, and your dog should never be left in their crate for excessive periods of time.

Paper Training

Paper training is a popular potty training method for Shih Tzu puppies that involves teaching them to pee and poop on a specific area covered with a pad or newspaper. This technique is particularly useful for pet parents who live in apartments or those who cannot take their puppies outside frequently.

To start paper training your Shih Tzu, follow these steps:

• Choose a designated area: Pick a spot in your home that is easily accessible to your puppy and away from their sleeping and eating areas. Cover the area with a paper or pee pad to absorb the urine and feces.
• Show your puppy the area: Take your puppy to the designated spot and let them smell and explore it. Use words like “go potty” or any other phrase consistently to indicate what you want them to do.
• Monitor your puppy: Keep a close eye on your puppy and watch out for signs that they need to go potty such as circling or sniffing around the room. When you spot these signs, gently pick up your puppy and place them on the paper or pad you’ve designated.
• Reward your puppy: Praise your puppy and give them a treat whenever they successfully eliminate on the paper or pad. This positive reinforcement will help reinforce the desired behavior.

It is important to remember that paper training should be a temporary solution and not a permanent potty training method. Once your Shih Tzu has developed good habits and can hold their bladder for longer periods, gradually transition them to outside potty training.

Bell Training

Bell Training: Another effective potty training technique for Shih Tzus is bell training. This method involves hanging a bell near the door that you use to take your pup out to potty. Here’s a breakdown of how to train your Shih Tzu to ring the bell when they need to go outside:

Perplexity Prompt: Have you ever tried bell training with your Shih Tzu or any other breed? What was your experience like?

Positive Reinforcement

When it comes to potty training your Shih Tzu, positive reinforcement is an effective technique to encourage good habits. This method involves rewarding your dog for exhibiting desirable behavior rather than punishing them for bad behavior. In turn, your Shih Tzu will learn to associate good behavior with positive outcomes and be more likely to repeat that behavior in the future.

Examples of Positive Reinforcement:

Using a combination of positive reinforcement techniques will help to establish good potty training habits in your Shih Tzu. It’s important to remain consistent and praise them for their good behavior every time they exhibit it. Remember to keep the reward immediate and use a unique word or phrase to signal the desired behavior. The use of positive reinforcement coupled with patience and consistency will yield long term results with your potty training goals.

How Long Does it Take?

Training a Shih Tzu to use the potty can take time and patience. The exact timeline for potty training a Shih Tzu can vary depending on various factors. In general, it may take anywhere from 4-6 months for a Shih Tzu to be fully potty trained.

Breed Characteristics: Shih Tzus can be stubborn, which can make potty training a challenge. Additionally, their small size may make it difficult for them to hold their bladder for long periods of time.

Age: The age at which you start potty training can also impact how long it takes. Starting too early can lead to accidents, while starting too late can make the process more difficult. The best time to start potty training a Shih Tzu is typically around 8-12 weeks old.

Health: If your Shih Tzu is dealing with any health issues, such as a urinary tract infection, it may take longer to potty train them. Make sure to address any health concerns with your veterinarian before beginning potty training.

Potty Training Techniques: The potty training method you choose can also impact how long it takes to train your Shih Tzu. Crate training is often an effective and efficient method, but it may require your Shih Tzu to spend significant amounts of time in their crate. Paper training can also be effective, but it may take longer for your Shih Tzu to understand that they need to hold their bladder until they are on the appropriate surface.

Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to potty training a Shih Tzu. Make sure to take your Shih Tzu outside or to their designated potty area on a regular schedule. Additionally, consistent positive reinforcement when they go potty in the appropriate place can help speed up the process.

Ultimately, every Shih Tzu is unique, and the timeline for potty training may vary from dog to dog. Be patient and persistent in your efforts to train your Shih Tzu to use the potty, and be consistent in your methods. With time and effort, your Shih Tzu will be successfully potty trained.

Common Potty Training Problems and Solutions

Potty training your Shih Tzu can be a challenging process, and it’s not uncommon to encounter some hiccups along the way. From accidents in the house to resistant behavior and biting, there are several common potty training problems that owners may face. Fortunately, with the right approach and techniques, these challenges can be overcome. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most common potty training problems Shih Tzu owners encounter, as well as effective solutions to address them. So, let’s dive in and find out how to tackle these issues and keep your furry friend on track with their potty training journey.

Accidents in the House

Accidents in the house are a common issue you may encounter during the potty training process. Don’t be discouraged, as they are a natural part of the learning process for your Shih Tzu. Here are some tips to help with accidents:

• Supervise: Keep an eye on your Shih Tzu at all times, especially when they are not in their designated potty area. This will allow you to catch them in the act and redirect them to the correct spot.
• Clean up: As soon as an accident happens, clean it up thoroughly to remove any odor or trace of urine. This will help prevent your Shih Tzu from using the same spot again.
• Use an enzyme cleaner: Enzyme cleaners are effective at eliminating urine odors and stains. They break down the proteins in the urine, making it easier to remove the smell from the carpet or floor.
• Don’t punish: Punishing your Shih Tzu for accidents will only confuse and frighten them. Instead, redirect them to the correct spot and reward them when they use it.
• Be consistent: Stick to your routine and keep your Shih Tzu on a regular feeding schedule. This will help regulate their digestion and make it easier to predict when they need to go potty.

Remember, accidents are a normal part of the potty training process. With patience and consistent training, your Shih Tzu will learn where to go potty and accidents will become less frequent.

Biting and Nipping

One of the common problems during potty training is a Shih Tzu’s biting and nipping habit. Shih Tzu puppies love to chew on things, and when they are in the process of teething, they may be more prone to biting and nipping. This can be a problem because they could end up biting their owners or guests in the house.

Biting and nipping can be addressed through the following steps:

Remember, biting and nipping are natural instincts for puppies. However, consistent training and correction can help your Shih Tzu learn appropriate behaviors. Never use physical punishment as a method of correction, and always remain patient and consistent in your training.

Resisting Potty Training

Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a challenging task, especially when they resist the process. If your Shih Tzu is showing resistance to potty training, here are some possible reasons and tips to overcome the resistance:

• Health issues: If your Shih Tzu is experiencing any health issues, such as urinary tract infection or bladder problems, they may be having difficulty controlling their bladder. In this case, it is essential to consult with a vet to rule out any underlying health problems.
• Lack of routine: Consistency is key when it comes to potty training your Shih Tzu. If you are not sticking to a routine and providing your puppy with opportunities to go outside at the same times every day, they may resist the training process. Try to maintain a consistent routine and take them out frequently to encourage them to go potty.
• Not enough positive reinforcement: Potty training is an ongoing process that requires a lot of patience and positive reinforcement. If you are not rewarding your Shih Tzu for going potty outside or using the designated potty space, they may not see the benefit of the training process. Consistently praise and reward your Shih Tzu for good behavior.
• Punishment: Punishing your Shih Tzu for accidents inside the house or resisting potty training can backfire and lead to further resistance. Shih Tzus respond best to positive reinforcement and patience, so avoid punishing them for accidents.
• Not using the right training technique: Every Shih Tzu is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. If your Shih Tzu is resisting crate training, for example, consider trying paper training or bell training instead. Experiment with different techniques until you find the right fit for your puppy.

Remember, potty training a Shih Tzu requires time, effort, patience, and consistency. If your Shih Tzu is showing resistance to potty training, it’s essential to be patient and understanding. With the right approach and training techniques, you can help your Shih Tzu become successfully potty trained.

Maintaining Potty Training Success

One of the most challenging parts of potty training your Shih Tzu is maintaining their success in the long term. It’s important to stay consistent and keep reinforcing good habits to avoid any setbacks. With dedication and patience, you can make sure your furry friend remains potty trained and avoids any accidents in the house. Let’s take a look at some essential tips for maintaining potty training success.

Continuing to Reinforce Good Habits

After successfully potty training your Shih Tzu, it is important to continue reinforcing good habits to maintain their success. Here are some tips to help you continue with their training:

• Consistency is key: Stick to the routine you established during potty training, taking your dog out at the same times each day.
• Keep praising: Continue to reward your dog with treats and praise when they do their business outside.
• Monitor behavior: Keep an eye on your dog’s body language and behavior, as sometimes they may give signals that they need to go outside.
• Regular exercise: Make sure your dog gets enough exercise to avoid accidents caused by boredom or built-up energy.
• Be patient: Just like with any training, there may be setbacks. Be patient and keep reinforcing good habits.

In addition to these tips, it is important to remember that accidents may still happen even after successfully potty training your Shih Tzu. Don’t punish your dog for accidents, as this can cause them to feel anxious and stressed, making accidents more frequent. Instead, clean up accidents thoroughly and continue with positive reinforcement to encourage good habits.

Remember, maintaining good potty training habits is an ongoing process, but with consistency and patience, you and your Shih Tzu can continue to have success.

Adjusting to New Environments

Adjusting to new environments can be challenging for dogs, especially when it comes to potty training. Here are some tips to help your Shih Tzu adjust to new environments while maintaining their potty training habits:

• Stick to Their Routine: Try to maintain your Shih Tzu’s potty training routine as much as possible when in a new environment. Stick to their usual feeding times and take them out for potty breaks at their usual intervals. This will help them feel more familiar and comfortable in their new surroundings.
• Keep Them Close: When in a new environment, keep your Shih Tzu close to you to make sure you can monitor their behavior and prevent accidents. This can also help them feel more secure and less likely to wander off and have an accident.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Continue to use positive reinforcement when your Shih Tzu goes potty in the right place, even in a new environment. This will help them understand that pottying in the right place is always the right thing to do.
• Take Them Out Often: In a new environment, your Shih Tzu may be more prone to accidents due to the unfamiliar surroundings. Take them out for potty breaks more frequently to prevent accidents and reinforce good habits.

By following these tips, you can help your Shih Tzu adjust to new environments while still maintaining their potty training success. Remember that consistency and patience are key when it comes to potty training, especially in new and unfamiliar settings.

Conclusion

After going through all of the factors that affect potty training, when to start, how to prepare, different techniques to try, and how to maintain success, it is safe to say that potty training a shih tzu is not an easy feat. It requires patience, consistency, and dedication from both the owner and the dog. However, with the proper tools and techniques, it is definitely achievable.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that every dog is different, and while some may take only a few weeks to potty train, others may take several months or even longer. It is important to be realistic in your expectations and to not get discouraged if progress seems slow.

Consistency is key to successful potty training. Using the same techniques and routines day after day will help your shih tzu understand what is expected of them. Additionally, using positive reinforcement and lots of praise will encourage good behavior and make the process a more positive experience for both you and your furry friend.

If you run into any problems along the way, such as accidents in the house, biting or nipping, or resistance to potty training, it is important to stay patient and persistent. There are always solutions and techniques that can be used to address any issues that may arise.

Ultimately, the key to success is to stay committed and consistent in your training efforts. It may take some time, but with patience, dedication, and the right training techniques, you can successfully potty train your shih tzu and enjoy a happier, healthier relationship with your furry companion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common mistakes to avoid during potty training?

Some common mistakes to avoid include punishing your Shih Tzu for accidents, not being consistent with the routine, and not supervising your pup enough.

Is it possible to potty train an older Shih Tzu?

Yes, it is possible to potty train an older dog using the same techniques as with a puppy, but it may take longer due to ingrained habits.

How often should I take my Shih Tzu outside during potty training?

It is recommended to take your Shih Tzu outside every 1-2 hours during potty training, as well as after meals, playtime, and naps.

Should I use pee pads or take my Shih Tzu outside for potty training?

This depends on your personal preferences and situation. Pee pads can be convenient if you live in an apartment, but taking your Shih Tzu outside can help them learn to go potty in the appropriate place.

Can I leave my Shih Tzu in a crate for long periods of time during potty training?

No, you should not leave your Shih Tzu in a crate for longer than a few hours during potty training, as they need to go outside frequently to learn where to go potty.

What should I do if my Shih Tzu has an accident inside the house during potty training?

You should immediately clean up the accident and avoid punishing your Shih Tzu. Instead, take them outside and praise them when they go potty in the appropriate spot.

Can I use treats to help with potty training?

Yes, using treats as positive reinforcement can be effective in potty training your Shih Tzu. Just make sure to use them sparingly and choose small, healthy treats.

How can I tell if my Shih Tzu needs to go potty?

Some signs that your Shih Tzu needs to go potty include circling, sniffing, whining or barking, and heading towards the door.

What if my Shih Tzu keeps biting the pee pads during potty training?

You may need to supervise your Shih Tzu more closely during potty training and redirect their attention to a toy or chew instead. You can also try a different type of pad or paper to see if that helps.

When should I transition my Shih Tzu from pee pads to going outside?

You can begin transitioning your Shih Tzu from pee pads to going outside once they consistently use the pad and show signs of understanding where to go potty, such as heading towards the door.

References

• 3 Ways to Potty Train a Shih Tzu

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Britta Thygesen

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

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