Teaching your Shih Poo: Basic Obedience Commands

Britta Thygesen 27.04.2023 0

As a Shih Poo owner, you may find yourself wondering how you can establish a better line of communication with your furry companion. The good news is that teaching your Shih Poo basic obedience commands is an excellent way to bridge the gap between you and your beloved pet. Not only does basic obedience training strengthen the bond between you and your Shih Poo, but it also helps keep them safe in different situations. In this article, we’ll go over the importance of basic obedience training and provide step-by-step instructions for teaching your furry friend the four basic commands: sit, stay, come, and heel. We’ll also discuss how to train your Shih Poo for real-world situations, how to troubleshoot common training problems, and more. So, let’s get started!

Why Basic Obedience Training Is Important

Basic obedience training is an essential part of raising a Shih Poo, a playful and affectionate crossbreed dog between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle. It provides numerous benefits that go beyond teaching your furry friend some basic commands. Proper training helps establish a healthy relationship between you and your Shih Poo, fosters socialization, and ensures their safety. In this section, we will delve into the reasons why basic obedience training is crucial for every Shih Poo owner.

Positive training techniques can make training your Shih Poo a joyful experience for both of you.

Establishing Yourself as the Pack Leader

When it comes to obedience training for your Shih Poo, one of the most important factors to consider is establishing yourself as the pack leader. This means taking charge of your dog’s behavior in a firm but fair manner, setting boundaries and rules, and rewarding good behavior.

Here are some key strategies for establishing yourself as the pack leader and gaining your Shih Poo’s respect:

Set clear rules and boundaries: Dogs thrive on consistency, so be sure to set clear rules and boundaries for your Shih Poo. This can include things like not allowing your dog on the furniture or establishing a designated area for meals and bedtime.
Be confident and assertive: Dogs are sensitive to their owner’s energy and body language, so it’s important to project confidence and assertive energy when working with your Shih Poo. Stand tall, use a firm but calm voice, and avoid getting flustered or emotional.
Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is key to effective obedience training, and it’s important to use rewards and praise to reinforce good behavior. This could include treats, praise, or even a favorite toy.
Show leadership in everyday situations: Being a pack leader isn’t just about obedience training – it’s about showing leadership in everyday situations as well. This could mean walking confidently on the leash, leading your dog through doorways, or simply projecting calm energy when your Shih Poo is feeling anxious or uncertain.

By establishing yourself as the pack leader, you’ll create a strong foundation for obedience training and ensure that your Shih Poo is receptive and responsive to your commands. Remember to be patient and consistent in your training, and always prioritize positive reinforcement over punishment or negative reinforcement. For more information on positive training techniques for your Shih Poo, check out our article on shih poo positive training.

Bonding and Socialization

Bonding and Socialization are important aspects of basic obedience training for your Shih Poo. Through training, you will be spending a lot of time with your furry friend, and this will help to build a strong emotional bond between you and your pet.

It is important to remember that socialization doesn’t just refer to interacting with other pets, but also involves exposing your Shih Poo to different people, environments, and experiences that they may encounter throughout their life. This process will help your dog become more confident, less fearful, and less anxious.

To socialize your Shih Poo, take them with you to new and different places, such as parks or pet-friendly stores. Allow them to interact with other dogs and humans in a controlled environment to help them learn how to behave appropriately.

For puppies, socialization should begin as early as possible, ideally around 8-12 weeks old. This is the most impressionable age when they are receptive and open to new experiences.

Additionally, crate training can also aid in socialization by giving your Shih Poo a safe and comfortable space to retreat to when they feel overwhelmed or anxious. By providing them with a cozy crate, you can help build their confidence and reduce their anxiety levels. You can learn more about the benefits of crate training for Shih Poos by checking out our article on Benefits of Crate Training for Shih Poos.

Bonding and socialization are key elements of basic obedience training for your Shih Poo. By socializing your pet and exposing them to a range of experiences and environments, you can help them become well-rounded, confident, and calm dogs. If you are struggling with any Shih Poo training issues, be sure to check out our article on Shih Poo Training Issues for tips and strategies.

Keeping Your Shih Poo Safe

As a pet owner, keeping your Shih Poo safe should always be your top priority. This means making sure your furry friend is trained to obey basic obedience commands to avoid any dangerous situations. By teaching your Shih Poo basic obedience commands, you can protect them from getting into accidents, lost, or experiencing other misfortunes. Here are some tips on how to ensure your Shih Poo stays safe:

Tip	Description
Keep your Shih Poo on a leash in public areas	By keeping your Shih Poo on a leash when you’re out and about, you can make sure they won’t run into traffic or dangerous situations.
Teach your Shih Poo to come when called	If your Shih Poo ever runs off, it’s important for them to come back to you when called so you can keep them safe from harm.
Avoid leaving your Shih Poo alone in the car	Leaving your Shih Poo alone in a car, even for a short time, can be dangerous, especially during hot weather.
Make sure your Shih Poo is properly socialized	Socialization is important for your Shih Poo’s emotional wellbeing, and it also helps ensure they won’t react in fear or aggression in unfamiliar situations.
Train your Shih Poo to stop barking on command	Barking excessively can sometimes lead to unwanted attention or situations, so training your Shih Poo to stop barking on command can help prevent those scenarios.
Consider clicker training for more advanced training	Clicker training can be an effective way to train your Shih Poo and can also be used to teach advanced commands, such as staying in one place or coming when called.

By following these tips, you can create a safer environment for your Shih Poo, allowing them to enjoy a happy, healthy life. Remember, keeping them safe should always be a priority, and training them in basic obedience commands is a crucial step in creating a safe and loving relationship between you and your furry companion. For more information on clicker training, socialization, stopping excessive barking, or teaching tricks, click on these links.

The 4 Basic Obedience Commands for Shih Poos

When it comes to training your Shih Poo, it’s essential to start with the basics. In this section, we’ll be covering four fundamental obedience commands that every dog should know. These commands will not only make your life easier but also keep your furry friend safe in various situations. Let’s dive in and explore the crucial commands – sit, stay, come, and heel. By teaching your Shih Poo these basic commands, you’ll be able to establish a strong foundation for more advanced training later on.

Sit

Teaching your Shih Poo to sit on command is one of the most basic yet essential obedience commands they need to learn. It helps you to establish yourself as the pack leader and sets the tone for the rest of the training.

Why Teach Your Shih Poo to Sit

Teaching your Shih Poo to sit can help prevent them from jumping up on you or your guests, begging for food, or running out into the street. It also provides a way for you to calm them down and redirect their attention when necessary.

How to Teach Your Shih Poo to Sit

Here is a step-by-step guide to teaching your Shih Poo to sit:

Step 1:	Start by holding a treat above your puppy’s head and move it back towards their tail.
Step 2:	Your puppy should follow the treat with their nose and naturally sit back on their haunches.
Step 3:	As soon as their bottom touches the ground, say “sit” and give them the treat as a reward.
Step 4:	Repeat this process several times a day, gradually raising your hand higher each time until your puppy can sit on command without the use of a treat.

Common Problems to Watch For

If your Shih Poo is having trouble sitting, try breaking the process down into smaller steps. For example, you can reward them for simply bending their knees or lowering their rear end. Also, make sure to use positive reinforcement like treats and praise to encourage good behavior.

If your Shih Poo still isn’t getting it, try training in a quieter location with fewer distractions. Once they have mastered sitting, you can gradually increase the level of distractions and practice in more challenging situations.

Teaching your Shih Poo to sit is an important step in their basic obedience training. It not only helps establish you as the pack leader, but also keeps them safe and well-behaved in a variety of situations. With patience and persistence, your furry friend will master this important command in no time!

Stay

One essential basic obedience command for your Shih Poo is the “Stay” command. This command can be particularly useful when you need your dog to remain in one place momentarily. Whether you have visitors entering your home, need your dog to wait at a street corner, or want to stop your Shih Poo from jumping on strangers, teaching “Stay” can prove to be a lifesaver.

To start training “Stay,” have your Shih Poo sit or lie down. Then, with an open palm, say “Stay” in a firm voice while taking a step back. If your dog stays still, praise them with a treat and a verbal cue such as “good job.”

Now you can start to gradually increase the distance you step back. If your dog remains in position, reward them again. Focus on increasing the distance slowly to avoid overwhelming your pup.

One common problem with “Stay” command training is that dogs tend to follow their owners as they step back. If your Shih Poo does this, simply reposition them and start over. Using a visual cue like the “stay” hand signal (a palm facing forward) while you move away can help your dog understand what you want them to do.

Another issue that can arise is that your Shih Poo may break the “Stay” command before you release them. To avoid this, say your selected release cue (such as “OK” or “Free”) in a cheerful voice and offer your dog a tasty treat. Gradually increase the duration of the stay as your dog becomes more adept at the command.

Using a table to summarize the “Stay” command training steps can be helpful:

Step	Action
1	Have your Shih Poo sit or lie down.
2	Say “Stay” in a firm voice and step back one pace while holding your hand up in the “stay” signal.
3	If your dog stays, praise them and give a treat.
4	Gradually increase the distance you step back while your Shih Poo remains in place, praising and rewarding often.
5	Select a release cue, and say it in a cheerful voice while offering a treat to reward the “Stay.”

Remember, always keep training sessions short, around 10-15 minutes, and avoid using punishment as it can lead to fear and aggression. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience to teach your Shih Poo the basic obedience commands like “Stay”.

Come

Teaching your Shih Poo to come when called is crucial for their safety and your peace of mind. Imagine calling your furry friend, and they don’t respond, leaving you worried and searching for them. With consistent training and practice, you can teach your Shih Poo to come to you every time you call.

One of the essential steps in training your Shih Poo to come is choosing a command word. It can be as simple as “come” or “here,” and it must be consistent every time you call your dog over.

Once you have your command word, it’s time to start training. Here are the steps to train your Shih Poo to come:

Step 1:	Start in a quiet, low-distraction environment.
Step 2:	Call your Shih Poo using their command word in a happy, positive tone of voice, and run away from them.
Step 3:	When they start coming towards you, keep praising them with encouraging phrases like “good boy/girl” or “well done.”
Step 4:	When your Shih Poo comes to you, give them a treat and lots of affection such as petting or cuddling, to positively reinforce the behavior.
Step 5:	Practice this exercise in different environments and gradually introduce more distractions to help your Shih Poo learn to come when called, no matter the place or the distractions around them.

It’s crucial to understand that dogs are social creatures that love attention, so they quickly learn that coming to their owners when called is rewarding. Consistently practice calling your Shih Poo and rewarding them with a treat or affection, so they associate the behavior with positive reinforcement.

It’s also important to avoid punishing your dog when they don’t come to you. Punishing your Shih Poo will create negative associations and make them less likely to respond to your commands. Instead, stay patient and keep practicing.

When it comes to training your Shih Poo to come when called, consistency is key. Keep practicing this exercise as often as possible, and before you know it, you’ll have a well-trained and obedient furry friend who comes immediately when you call.

Heel

One of the most important obedience commands for your Shih Poo is “heel”. This command teaches your dog to walk alongside you while on a leash, without pulling or straying away. It’s essential for keeping your dog safe and under your control on walks.

To train your Shih Poo to heel, follow these steps:

Step 1:	Start with a well-fitted collar or harness and a sturdy leash. You may also want to consider using a treat pouch or training bag.
Step 2:	Hold the leash in your left hand and stand with your dog on your left side.
Step 3:	With your Shih Poo on your left, take a step forward with your left foot and say “heel“.
Step 4:	If your dog starts to pull, stop walking immediately and stand still. Wait for your Shih Poo to come back to your side before starting again.
Step 5:	Repeat this process, taking small steps forward and stopping as needed. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to reward your dog for walking calmly by your side.

It’s important to keep your Shih Poo’s attention focused on you while heeling. Avoid distractions like other animals or people and begin in a quiet environment. As your dog becomes more comfortable with heeling, you can gradually introduce more distractions.

Remember to be patient and consistent with your training. It may take several sessions for your Shih Poo to master the heel command, but with practice and positive reinforcement, he will become a well-behaved and obedient companion on walks.

How to Train Your Shih Poo to Obey

You’ve brought home your adorable Shih Poo and now it’s time to start training them to obey. But where do you start? With so much information out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. But fear not, with the right tools and approach, you can teach your furry friend to be a well-behaved and obedient companion. In this section, we’ll dive into the essential steps to help you train your Shih Poo effectively. So, let’s get started on this exciting journey together!

Start with Positive Reinforcements

When it comes to training your Shih Poo, starting with positive reinforcements is key. This means rewarding your furry friend for good behavior, rather than punishing them for bad behavior. Positive reinforcements create a positive association with the desired behavior and make training a more enjoyable experience for both you and your dog.

Here are some examples of positive reinforcements you can use:

Treats	Praise	Physical Affection
Small pieces of their favorite food	Verbal praise, such as “Good boy/girl!”	Pats or cuddles
Training treats or dog biscuits	Scratches behind the ears	Hugs or kisses
Frozen dog treats	Excited tone of voice	Playing with toys

Using a combination of these positive reinforcements can help motivate your Shih Poo to behave well during training sessions. Remember to use the reinforcement immediately after your dog demonstrates the desired behavior. This is important as it allows them to make the connection between the action and the reward. Starting with positive reinforcements will help your Shih Poo associate training with fun and will set the foundation for successful obedience training.

Be Consistent

Consistency is of utmost importance when it comes to training your Shih Poo basic obedience commands. This means that you need to be consistent in your training methods, consistent in your timing, and consistent in your expectations.

Training Methods	Choose a method of training that works for you and stick to it. If you switch between methods, your Shih Poo will get confused and may not respond as well. Whether you use positive reinforcement or clicker training, be consistent in the way you train your dog.
Timing	Timing is crucial in dog training. If you give commands at random intervals or only when you feel like it, your Shih Poo will not learn to associate the command with the action. For instance, give the command “Sit” and wait for your Shih Poo to follow through with the action. If it takes longer, wait patiently, but do not give up. Keep repeating the command until your dog obeys you.
Expectations	When you set expectations for your dog, expect them to be met every time. If you allow your Shih Poo to disobey occasionally or allow certain behaviours at some times, but not others, you are only confusing your dog. Set clear expectations and stick to them. For instance, if you want your dog to sit before allowing him to eat, be consistent in this command every time you feed him.

By being consistent in your training methods, timing, and expectations, your Shih Poo will learn more easily and consistently. Do not worry if it takes a little longer, just remember that with consistency, your Shih Poo will eventually learn and obey your commands.

Use Training Treats

When it comes to training your Shih Poo basic obedience commands, using training treats can be a powerful tool. Follow these tips to use treats effectively in your training sessions:

Choose the Right Treats: Pick treats with a strong smell and flavor that your Shih Poo loves. Bite-sized, soft treats work best so your pup can quickly eat them and get back to training. Avoid treats that are high in calories or fat, as you don’t want to overfeed your pup during training.
Use Treats Strategically: Only give your Shih Poo a treat when they’ve completed the desired behavior. For example, if you’re trying to teach them to sit, only give them the treat after they’ve sat down. This will reinforce the behavior you want to encourage.
Fade Away Treats Gradually: The goal of using treats is to eventually phase them out as your Shih Poo becomes more comfortable with the behavior. Start by using treats heavily in the beginning stages of training, then gradually reduce the frequency until they’re only receiving treats occasionally.
Don’t Overuse Treats: While treats can be useful in teaching desired behaviors, they should not be the only motivator for your Shih Poo. Over time, you want your pup to obey commands because they respect and look up to you, not just because they want a treat. Use praise, petting, and other rewards in addition to treats to reinforce good behavior.

By using treats properly in your obedience training sessions, you can motivate your Shih Poo to learn and obey commands quickly and effectively. Keep in mind that treats are just one tool at your disposal; consistency, positive reinforcement, and daily practice are also crucial components of successful obedience training.

Keep Training Sessions Short

When you are training your Shih Poo, it’s important to remember that they have a short attention span. Therefore, keeping training sessions short is essential to their success. Instead of scheduling one long training session, break it up into multiple shorter sessions throughout the day. Here are some reasons why shorter training sessions work better:

Prevent Overwhelming Your Shih Poo: Just like humans, dogs can get overwhelmed with too much new information or too long of a training session. Shorter training sessions help prevent overwhelming your Shih Poo and keep them engaged.
Avoid Boredom: If you extend a training session for too long, your Shih Poo may get bored and begin to lose interest. As a result, they may become uncooperative or start behaving destructively. Keeping training sessions short and sweet helps to avoid boredom and frustration.
Maximize Productivity: Shorter training sessions keep your Shih Poo attentive and focused, making the most of each session’s time. You can quickly assess what they’re grasping, making modifications and moving on to the next task when needed.
Build Endurance: Just like running a marathon, building up endurance requires short training sessions that gradually build over time. By breaking down training sessions into manageable time intervals, you can help your Shih Poo build up their endurance and increase their ability to concentrate for longer periods.

Shorter training sessions may seem counterintuitive but, in reality, they are more effective than longer sessions. Focusing on shorter sessions of high quality can help your Shih Poo retain information, stay engaged, and progress. By taking a five-minute training break, you can teach your Shih Poo new obedience commands that incorporate positivity, consistency, and fun in your daily routine.

Practice Every Day

One of the most important aspects of training your Shih Poo is to practice every day. Consistent practice will help reinforce the commands and increase the likelihood that your dog will obey them even in real-world situations.

To make sure you stay on track with daily training, it can be helpful to create a schedule or use a training log. This will allow you to keep track of what commands you have practiced and how your Shih Poo is progressing.

Here is an example table you could use to track your daily training sessions:

Date	Command	Duration	Notes
Monday 1/1/22	Sit	10 minutes	Shih Poo responded well, used clicker for positive reinforcement
Tuesday 1/2/22	Stay	5 minutes	Shih Poo struggled with “stay” command, will need to review and reinforce
Wednesday 1/3/22	Come	7 minutes	Shih Poo responded well, used high value treat as reward
Thursday 1/4/22	Heel	8 minutes	Shih Poo was distracted by other dogs, will need to practice in less stimulating environment
Friday 1/5/22	Sit	15 minutes	Shih Poo demonstrated improved response time and consistency

As you can see, keeping track of your daily training sessions can help you identify areas that need improvement and also track progress over time. By dedicating time every day to training your Shih Poo, you will create a strong foundation for obedience that will make your dog happier, safer, and more enjoyable to be around. So, make sure to make it a habit to practice every day!

Praise and Reward Your Shih Poo

One of the most important aspects of training your Shih Poo is using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. This means praising and rewarding your furry friend when they follow your commands correctly. Here are some tips for effectively rewarding and praising your Shih Poo during training sessions:

Use verbal praise: Using a happy, upbeat tone of voice when giving commands and saying “good boy/girl” or “well done” when they follow through can work wonders for boosting your pup’s confidence and desire to continue pleasing you.
Give physical rewards: Small, tasty treats are great rewards for your Shih Poo during training. You can also use toys or playtime as a reward. Just make sure the reward you choose is something your pup really enjoys.
Reward immediately: It’s important to give your pup a treat or praise immediately after they perform the correct behavior. This helps them associate the behavior with the reward and encourages them to repeat it in the future.
Be consistent: Consistent rewarding and praising is key to reinforcing good behavior. Make sure to always give a reward or praise when your pup follows a command correctly, even if it’s something they’ve done before.
Avoid punishment: Punishing your Shih Poo for not following commands can be confusing and counterproductive. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and ignore bad behavior when possible.

Remember, training your Shih Poo is a process that requires patience and consistency. With positive reinforcement and lots of love, your furry friend will learn to follow your lead and become the obedient companion you’ve always wanted. So be sure to praise and reward your Shih Poo for a job well done!

Training Your Shih Poo for Real-World Situations

As your Shih Poo becomes more obedient to your commands, training them for real-world situations becomes crucial for their safety and your peace of mind. From leash walking to meeting new people and pets, there are several scenarios you might encounter outside of the comfort of your home. It’s important to prepare your furry friend for these situations to ensure they behave appropriately and confidently. Let’s explore some of the techniques you can use to train your Shih Poo for these real-world scenarios.

Training for Leash Walking

The benefits of leash walking are twofold: not only does it provide exercise for your Shih Poo, but it also allows for bonding time with you. However, training a dog to walk on a leash can be challenging, especially for energetic breeds like the Shih Poo.

Here are some steps to help train your Shih Poo to walk calmly on a leash:

Start with collar and leash introduction
Start indoors or in a low-distraction area
Encourage your Shih Poo to walk beside you using treats and positive reinforcement
Use a command, such as “heel,” consistently to indicate when you want your Shih Poo to walk calmly beside you
Practice short walks, gradually increasing in length and distractions
Reinforce good behavior with treats and praise

It’s important to keep in mind that leash training takes time and patience, so don’t expect immediate results. If your Shih Poo pulls or becomes too excited during walks, take a break and try again later.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Yanking or pulling on the leash can cause your Shih Poo to become frightened or anxious
Letting your Shih Poo walk too far ahead of you can make them feel like they are in charge
Not being consistent with your commands can confuse your Shih Poo and slow down the training process
Not rewarding good behavior can make it difficult for your Shih Poo to understand what is expected of them

With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your Shih Poo can become a great walking companion. Don’t forget to enjoy the bonding time that comes with leash walking and explore new areas together.

Training for Meeting New People and Pets

Meeting new people and pets can be a fun and exciting experience for your Shih Poo, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful if they are not properly trained to socialize. By following the steps below, you can train your Shih Poo to be comfortable around new faces and furry friends.

Step 1: Start with Familiar Faces

Before introducing your Shih Poo to new people and pets, it’s best to start with familiar faces. Invite a few friends or family members over to your home and have them interact with your dog in a positive way. This will help your Shih Poo build confidence and learn to trust others.

Step 2: Use Positive Reinforcement

When introducing your Shih Poo to new people and pets, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Reward your dog with treats or praise when they approach others calmly and without fear. This will help them associate meeting new people and pets with positive experiences.

Step 3: Supervise Interactions

When introducing your Shih Poo to new people and pets, it’s important to supervise their interactions. Keep your dog on a leash and monitor their behavior closely. If your dog becomes too excited or aggressive, calmly remove them from the situation and try again later.

Step 4: Gradually Increase Exposure

As your Shih Poo becomes more comfortable around familiar faces, gradually increase their exposure to new people and pets. Start by taking them to a quiet park or pet-friendly store and gradually introduce them to more people and animals.

Step 5: Address Any Negative Reactions

If your Shih Poo experiences any negative reactions during these training sessions, address them immediately. Don’t scold or punish your dog, but rather redirect their attention to something positive. Consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer if your dog continues to struggle with meeting new people and pets.

Step 6: Keep It Up!

Training your Shih Poo to be comfortable around new people and pets is an ongoing process. Continue to practice these steps consistently and praise your dog for good behavior. With patience and perseverance, your Shih Poo will become a social butterfly in no time!

Step	Description
Step 1	Start with familiar faces
Step 2	Use positive reinforcement
Step 3	Supervise interactions
Step 4	Gradually increase exposure
Step 5	Address any negative reactions
Step 6	Keep it up!

Training for Car Rides

Teaching your Shih Poo basic obedience commands is crucial, but so is their behavior during car rides. If your furry friend gets anxious or aggressive in the car, it could not only be distressing for you, but it’s also a safety concern. Here are some tips for training your Shih Poo for car rides:

1. Get them used to the car: Familiarize your Shih Poo with the car by introducing the concept of a “car ride” gradually. Start by bringing them near the car, sit with them inside the car (turned off), give them treats, and praise them for being calm. Do this a few times before turning the car on.
2. Use a dog harness or carrier: It’s important to secure your Shih Poo in a harness or carrier to keep them safe in case of sudden stops or accidents. Using a familiar carrier or their favorite blanket can also make them feel more comfortable.
3. Start with short car rides: Begin with shorter rides so that your Shih Poo has positive experiences. Limiting the length of the trip and the distance may prevent **overstimulation**.
4. Keep them entertained: Providing interactive toys, such as chew toys stuffed with treats, and playing calming music can keep them entertained and relaxed. Remember to never leave your Shih Poo alone in the car, especially in warm weather.

It’s important to note that not all dogs enjoy car rides. If your Shih Poo consistently experiences fear or discomfort in the car, consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer to explore other options. By gradually introducing your furry companion to the car ride experience, they can become a calm and easy-going travel companion for any adventure.

Troubleshooting Common Obedience Training Problems

Teaching your Shih Poo basic obedience commands can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. However, like any training process, it can come with its fair share of challenges. You may encounter some common obedience training problems, such as your Shih Poo not listening, being too energetic or distracted, or even fearful. But don’t despair! With some patience and persistence, you can troubleshoot these issues and continue to make progress with your Shih Poo’s training. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most common obedience training problems and provide you with actionable solutions to overcome them. Read on to become a more confident and effective dog trainer!

My Shih Poo Won’t Listen

It can be frustrating when your Shih Poo doesn’t seem to be responding to your commands. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry – there are a few things you can do to help your pup start paying attention to you.

1. Evaluate the Situation: Sometimes, your Shih Poo may not be ignoring your commands because they aren’t listening, but because they are distracted or overstimulated. Look around and see if there’s something in the environment that may be causing this behavior. Maybe there are too many people around or too many things to smell. Try moving to a quieter location or taking a break if your pup seems overwhelmed.

2. Reinforce Basic Training: It’s always helpful to reinforce the basic training that your Shih Poo has already learned. Work on commands like sit, stay, come and heal, and practice them daily. Consistency is key, so make sure you’re using the same commands every time and providing clear cues.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement: Dogs respond well to positive reinforcement, so be sure to praise your Shih Poo when they do listen to you. Use plenty of verbal cues and give them a treat or toy when they follow your commands. Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage good behavior in your pup.

4. Try New Commands: Sometimes, your Shih Poo may not respond to a command because they haven’t learned it yet. Try teaching new commands and practicing them regularly. Keep the sessions short and positive, and always reward good behavior.

5. Seek Professional Help: If you’ve tried everything and your Shih Poo still isn’t listening, it may be time to seek professional help. Look for a dog trainer in your area who specializes in behavior modification. They can help you identify the root cause of the problem and create a plan to address it.

Remember, training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your Shih Poo doesn’t seem to be listening right away. Stick with it and keep reinforcing good behavior, and soon enough, your pup will be a well-behaved and obedient companion.

My Shih Poo Is Afraid or Nervous

It’s not uncommon for a Shih Poo to feel scared or apprehensive during obedience training. It’s important to remember that every dog is unique and may require a different approach to overcome fear or anxiety. Here are some tips to help your nervous Shih Poo:

Tip	Description
Stay calm and patient	If your Shih Poo senses any frustration or impatience from you, it can escalate their anxiety. Take deep breaths and stay relaxed to help your dog feel at ease.
Start slow and gentle	Introduce new obedience commands one at a time, and use gentle methods such as luring with treats instead of forceful methods that may startle your dog.
Use positive reinforcement	Instead of scolding or punishing, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Reward your Shih Poo with treats and praise when they follow a command correctly.
Keep training sessions short	For a nervous dog, long training sessions can be overwhelming. Keep it short and sweet, and end on a positive note.
Provide a safe space	Make sure your Shih Poo has a comfortable and secure place to retreat to if they are feeling anxious. A crate or a cozy bed can be helpful in this regard.
Consult a professional	If your Shih Poo’s anxiety seems to persist, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or animal behaviorist who can help you develop a specific training plan tailored to your dog’s unique needs.

Remember, patience and persistence are key when it comes to overcoming fear and anxiety in your Shih Poo. With the right approach, your furry friend can become a confident and obedient companion.

My Shih Poo Is Too Energetic or Distracted

When it comes to training your Shih Poo, one of the most frustrating issues you may encounter is a pup who is too energetic or distracted to focus on the task at hand. This is a common problem, but it’s important to address it in order to make progress with your dog’s obedience.

Identifying the Issue: If your Shih Poo is too energetic or easily distracted during training sessions, it may be hard to even begin working on a specific command. You may notice that your dog is constantly moving, jumping around, or chasing after toys and treats instead of focusing on you.

Addressing the Issue: Here are some tips for managing a Shih Poo that is too energetic or easily distracted during training:

Tip	Description
Use a Calming Voice	Keep your voice low and even, which can help soothe an energetic pup.
Eliminate Distractions	Remove any toys, treats, or other distractions from the training area so your dog can focus solely on you.
Practice in a Quiet Environment	Avoid loud or busy training areas, as this can make it difficult for your dog to focus on the task at hand.
Offer Frequent Rewards	Use frequent rewards to keep your dog engaged and motivated during training sessions.
Break Up Training Sessions	Instead of one long training session, break up your training into several shorter sessions throughout the day to prevent your dog from getting too tired or overwhelmed.
Be Patient	Remember that training takes time and patience, especially when working with a high-energy breed like the Shih Poo.

Final Thoughts: Training an energetic or easily distracted Shih Poo can be a challenge, but with consistency and patience, it is possible to make progress. Don’t hesitate to consult with a professional trainer if you are having persistent issues with your Shih Poo’s behavior.

Conclusion

As a dog parent, it’s important to remember that basic obedience training isn’t just about having a well-behaved pet. It’s also crucial for bonding, socialization, and safety. By establishing yourself as the pack leader and teaching your Shih Poo to sit, stay, come, and heel, you are setting them up for success in various real-world situations.

Remember to start with positive reinforcement and to be consistent with your training sessions. Use training treats and keep sessions short to prevent boredom and frustration for both you and your furry friend. Make obedience training a daily routine and remember to always praise and reward your Shih Poo for good behavior.

Although it can be frustrating when your pup doesn’t listen or becomes distracted, it’s important to address these issues with patience and understanding. Troubleshooting common obedience training problems such as fear, nervousness, or excessive energy can help you and your Shih Poo overcome these obstacles and continue to make progress.

In conclusion, basic obedience training for Shih Poos is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your canine companion become a well-behaved and happy member of your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Shih Poos be trained easily?

Yes, Shih Poos are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them receptive to training. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed.

What age should I start obedience training my Shih Poo?

Training can begin as early as 8 weeks old. It is important to start training your Shih Poo as soon as possible to establish good habits and obedience from an early age.

Is it necessary for me to hire a professional trainer to train my Shih Poo?

It is not necessary, but enlisting the help of a professional trainer can be beneficial, especially if you are a first-time dog owner. A trainer can teach you and your Shih Poo proper techniques and provide guidance throughout the training process.

How long will it take to train my Shih Poo?

The length of time it takes to train your Shih Poo will depend on their age, temperament, and previous training. Consistency and patience are key in the training process, and it could take a few weeks to several months to fully train your Shih Poo.

Can Shih Poos be trained to do advanced commands?

Yes, Shih Poos can learn advanced commands with proper training and consistency. However, it is important to establish a strong foundation of basic obedience commands before moving onto more advanced ones.

Can I train my Shih Poo without using treats?

Yes, you can train your Shih Poo without using treats, but it may not be as effective. Treats are a form of positive reinforcement that helps dogs understand and learn what behavior is desired. However, other forms of reinforcement such as verbal praise and toys can also be effective.

Can obedience training help with Shih Poo behavior problems?

Yes, obedience training can help address behavior problems such as aggression, barking, and separation anxiety. Obedience training can teach your Shih Poo proper behavior and provide mental stimulation, which can improve overall behavior.

What kind of treats are best for training Shih Poos?

Soft, bite-sized treats work well for training Shih Poos. Treats should be high value and something your Shih Poo loves, such as small pieces of cooked chicken or cheese.

What should I do if my Shih Poo is stubborn during training?

If your Shih Poo is being stubborn during training, take a break and come back to the training later. It is important to not become frustrated or angry during training, as this can hinder progress. Consistency and patience are key.

When should I stop training my Shih Poo?

Training should be an ongoing process throughout your Shih Poo’s life. Regular reinforcement and practice of obedience commands can solidify good behavior and prevent bad habits from forming.