Teaching Basic Obedience Commands to Your Shih Poo

As a pet owner, we all want our furry companions to be well-behaved and obedient. However, teaching basic obedience commands to your Shih Poo can be a daunting task. Where do you even begin? Well, fear not! In this article, we will guide you through the entire process step-by-step. From understanding your Shih Poo’s learning style to tackling common training challenges, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s delve into the world of positive reinforcement training and prepare to shape our little ones into obedient and well-mannered pups.

Understanding Your Shih Poo’s Learning Style

It’s always important to understand your furry companion’s learning style in order to successfully train them. Knowing your Shih Poo’s way of learning can make a world of difference throughout your training experience. Every dog is unique, and their learning styles can differ greatly. Some Shih Poos learn better through activities such as playtime, while others may prefer routines and schedules. Whatever their learning style may be, one thing remains constant: positive reinforcement training is key. This will be discussed in greater detail later, but always remember that incorporating positive reinforcement is the best way to encourage good behavior in your furry friend. For more on Shih Poo training, check out our informative guides on crate training, socialization, house training, and leash training.

Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement training is a highly effective teaching method that is based on rewarding your Shih Poo for good behavior instead of punishing them for bad behavior. This type of training works by adding something desirable for your furry friend immediately after they complete a desired behavior, which encourages them to repeat the behavior in the future.

Why is positive reinforcement training important?

Positive reinforcement training has many advantages over other training methods. Firstly, it creates a strong bond of trust and mutual respect between you and your Shih Poo. Your furry friend will begin to see you as a source of good things, love and rewards, making them more responsive to your commands.

Positive reinforcement training boosts your Shih Poo’s confidence, encouraging them to learn new tricks and commands faster. It also promotes good behavior by positively reinforcing the actions that you want to see, making it easier to prevent bad behavior from occurring.

Examples of Positive Reinforcement Training

There are many ways to incorporate positive reinforcement training into your dog’s training routine. One popular method is using treats as rewards. When your Shih Poo performs a desired behavior, simply reward them with a treat right away. Consistency is key when using this method. Offer the treat every time your dog performs the behavior correctly.

Another positive reinforcement method is offering praise and affection. When your Shih Poo follows a command, give them a belly rub, a pat on the head, and plenty of praise.

Benefits of Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement training is a powerful tool for teaching your Shih Poo good behavior. By emphasizing good behavior instead of punishing your dog for bad behavior, you create a loving and supportive environment to encourage their growth and learning. Positive reinforcement training helps foster better communication between you and your furry friend and promote a happier household overall.

Remember that not all dogs learn at the same rate, and some dogs may respond better to other methods. However, positive reinforcement training is a great way to get started and is highly recommended by experts in the field. If you’re interested in fun and challenging training techniques, make sure to check out our article on advanced Shih Poo agility tricks for inspiration!

Consistency is key

One of the most important aspects of training your Shih Poo is to be consistent. Consistency can make or break the success of your training efforts. It’s crucial to establish consistent training routines and expect consistent behaviors from your pet. Here are some tips on how to maintain consistency in your training approach:

Consistency not only helps your Shih Poo to have a better understanding of your expectations, but also contributes to building a strong bond between you and your pet. Shih Poos are highly intelligent dogs and establishing consistency in your training will not only help in their obedience training but also in establishing a better relationship between you and your furry companion.

Importance of Patience

Training your Shih Poo basic obedience commands requires patience, consistency, and perseverance. It’s important to understand that each dog has their own unique learning style and will progress at their own pace. Some Shih Poos may learn quickly, while others may need more time and repetition. Patience is key to achieving success in obedience training.

During training sessions, it’s crucial to remain calm and patient with your Shih Poo. Avoid becoming frustrated or angry if they don’t immediately understand a command or make a mistake.

To help maintain patience and encourage progress, it can be helpful to break training sessions into shorter intervals throughout the day. This will prevent your dog from becoming overwhelmed or fatigued during long training sessions.

It’s also important to celebrate small victories during training. If your Shih Poo successfully follows a command, be sure to give them plenty of praise and rewards. This positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue learning and obeying commands.

In addition to patience and positive reinforcement, it’s important to remain consistent in your training approach. Stick to a set routine and use the same commands each time. This consistency will help your Shih Poo understand what is expected of them and reduces confusion.

Remember that every dog is different and may require different approaches to training. With patience and consistency, however, any Shih Poo can learn basic obedience commands and develop into a well-behaved and happy companion.

Teaching Basic Obedience Commands

As a Shih Poo owner, teaching your furry friend basic obedience commands is an essential part of their training regimen. These simple yet crucial commands will not only improve their behavior but also help you establish a stronger bond with them. However, if you’re new to dog training, it can be confusing and overwhelming to know where to begin. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to teach your Shih Poo some essential commands using positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience.

Sit Command

To teach your Shih Poo the “Sit” command, follow these simple steps:

1. Begin by standing directly in front of your Shih Poo, holding a treat to get their attention.
2. Slowly move the treat towards the back of their head, causing them to naturally lower their hindquarters
3. Say the command “Sit” in a firm, clear tone as soon as their hindquarters touch the ground.
4. As soon as your Shih Poo has fully sat down, give them the treat as a reward while simultaneously praising them with positive reinforcement, such as “Good boy/girl!”
5. Practice this command several times a day to help your Shih Poo associate the command with the action.

It’s important to note that during the training process, you should always use positive reinforcement techniques and avoid punishment or negative reinforcement. Also, keep the training sessions short to keep your Shih Poo engaged and motivated.

Remember, consistency is key when training your Shih Poo, no matter the command. Use positive reinforcement, patience and consistency to form a strong foundation for obedience training that will last a lifetime.

Stay Command

The “Stay” command is an important part of basic obedience training for your Shih Poo. It teaches your dog to remain in a specific position until released. This command is especially useful in situations where you need your dog to stay put temporarily, such as crossing a busy street or answering the door. Here’s how to teach your Shih Poo the “Stay” command:

Remember, the key to training your Shih Poo is consistency and patience. Although the “Stay” command may seem simple, it takes time and practice to reinforce the behavior. If your dog struggles with the “Stay” command, continue to practice the other basic obedience commands in order to build their confidence and understanding.

Come Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Come” command is essential for their safety and overall behavior. Follow these steps to train your furry friend:

1. Start in a quiet and enclosed area with your Shih Poo on a leash. Choose a simple and unique sound or word, such as “come” or a whistle, for your command.
2. Say the command in a clear and firm tone, followed by tapping your leg or running a short distance in the opposite direction of your dog.
3. Once your Shih Poo reaches you, reward them with a treat and lots of praise. Repeat this exercise several times until they consistently come when called, gradually increasing the distance between you and your dog.
4. Practice this command in different environments, gradually increasing distractions. Make sure to always reward your dog for their successful response.

Remember, the “Come” command should only be used in positive situations, such as calling your dog for mealtime or to come inside. Refrain from using it as punishment or in negative situations.

Tips:

• Always give your dog a positive reward for coming when called, such as treats, toys, or praise. This will reinforce good behavior and encourage them to continue obeying the command.
• Never chase your dog when trying to get them to come. This can turn it into a game for your dog and make it harder for them to take the command seriously.
• Use the “Come” command sparingly. Overusing it can decrease its effectiveness and make it harder for your dog to respond.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully teach your Shih Poo the “Come” command and ensure their safety and good behavior.

Heel Command

The “Heel” command is an important one to teach your Shih Poo, as it can make walks more enjoyable for both you and your dog. Here are the steps to teaching your dog the “Heel” command:

1. Start by having your dog stand next to you on a leash. Make sure you have plenty of treats on hand to reward good behavior.
2. With your dog on your left side, say “Heel” and start walking. Keep the leash short so your dog walks beside you.
3. If your dog starts to pull or lag behind, use a firm but gentle tug on the leash and say “Heel” again. When your dog gets back in position, reward them with a treat and praise.
4. Continue walking in a straight line for a short distance, rewarding your dog every few steps for staying in the correct position.
5. Once your dog is comfortable walking in a straight line, try turning left and right while saying “Heel”. This will help your dog learn to stay close to your side regardless of which direction you go.
6. As your dog gets better at walking in a straight line and turning with you, try walking in a more crowded area or with distractions around. This will help your dog learn to stay focused on you even in more challenging environments.

Remember to always use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, when teaching your dog the “Heel” command. This will help them associate the behavior with something positive and increase their motivation to obey. With consistency and patience, your Shih Poo will master the “Heel” command and you can enjoy stress-free walks together.

Down Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Down” command can sometimes be a bit more challenging than other basic obedience commands. However, with enough patience and perseverance, you can help your furry friend master this skill.

Step 1: Start by commanding your dog to “Sit”. This ensures that your pet is in a relaxed state and is more receptive to learning new things.

Step 2: With your dog sitting in front of you, hold a treat in your hand and allow your pooch to sniff it. Then, slowly lower your hand with the treat towards the ground.

Step 3: As you lower the treat, say “Down” in a firm, clear voice. If your dog begins to follow the treat and lowers their body to the ground, give them the treat and praise them. If your dog doesn’t follow your command, don’t force them down, instead try again.

Step 4: Repeat this process several times each day, gradually increasing the time your Shih Poo is required to stay in the down position before receiving the treat.

Step 5: Once your pet has mastered this command, you can gradually reduce the use of treats and start using physical praise, like head rubs or belly scratches, to reward them.

Remember to keep the training sessions short and fun, and never get frustrated with your pet if they are struggling to learn. Persistence and positive reinforcement are key to successfully teaching your Shih Poo the “Down” command.

Leave it Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Leave it” command is an important part of their basic obedience training. This command is used to teach your dog to leave something alone, whether it’s a tempting treat on the floor or something dangerous they shouldn’t touch.

To start teaching this command, hold a treat in your hand and tell your dog to “Leave it.” When they inevitably try to grab the treat, cover it with your hand and repeat the command. As soon as your dog stops trying to get the treat, reward them with a different treat or praise.

Once your dog has mastered leaving a treat in your hand, you can move on to more challenging situations. Scatter a few treats on the ground and tell your dog to “Leave it.” Use a leash to gently prevent them from getting to the treats. Again, as soon as they listen and stop trying to grab the treats, offer them praise and a reward treat.

Another way to practice this command is by placing an object that your dog may be tempted to grab in front of them, and telling them to “Leave it”. Use a clicker or a word like “Yes” to signal to your dog that they have correctly followed your command. Gradually increase the difficulty of this exercise by placing more tempting objects in front of your pup.

Remember to always use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, when your Shih Poo successfully follows the “Leave it” command. Consistency is key to training, so make sure to practice this command frequently.

Tips for teaching “Leave it” command:

Tip	Description
Start Slowly	Begin with teaching your dog to leave an object in your hand before progressing to other situations.
Use Rewards	Always reward your dog with treats and praise when they successfully follow the command.
Be Consistent	Practice the “Leave it” command frequently, and make sure all family members use the same command and training techniques.
Avoid Punishment	Never punish your dog for not following the “Leave it” command, as this may discourage them from obeying in the future.

By using positive reinforcement and remaining consistent in your training, your Shih Poo will soon master the “Leave it” command and be able to resist temptations and potentially dangerous objects.

Off Command

When your Shih Poo is displaying unwanted behavior, you want them to stop in their tracks immediately. That’s where the “off” command comes in handy. It’s an essential command that helps to keep them from jumping on guests, grabbing things from the countertop or furniture, or engaging in any other negative behavior. Here’s how to teach your Shih Poo the “off” command in a few easy steps:

1. Begin by putting a treat in your hand and closing your fingers around it.
2. Show your Shih Poo your fist and say the word “off” firmly.
3. As soon as they back away from your fist, give them the treat and praise them for listening.
4. Repeat this exercise several times a day until your Shih Poo understands the command and responds to it consistently.

Remember to use a firm but gentle voice when giving the command. You don’t want to scare your dog or make them feel intimidated, but you do want to convey that you mean what you say. When your Shih Poo responds to the command properly, give them lots of praise and positive reinforcement. Before you know it, they’ll be responding to the “off” command like a pro.

It’s important to note that consistency is key when teaching the “off” command. Don’t give in to your Shih Poo’s jumping or other negative behavior, even if it’s cute or funny at first. Stick to your guns and keep reinforcing the “off” command every time they misbehave. In time, your Shih Poo will learn that jumping and other negative behaviors are not acceptable and will respond to the “off” command without fail.

Remember: The “off” command is not a punishment; it’s a tool to help your Shih Poo learn how to behave properly. Keep your training sessions short and positive, and never use physical force or punishment to correct your dog’s behavior. With patience and persistence, your Shih Poo will learn the “off” command and other basic obedience commands quickly and easily.

Common Training Challenges


When it comes to teaching basic obedience commands to your Shih Poo, you may encounter some common training challenges. These situations can arise due to various reasons, such as the dog’s temperament, previous experiences, or simply a lack of understanding. It’s crucial to approach these challenges with patience and perseverance, as consistent training is the key to overcome them successfully. Let’s take a look at some of the common issues you may face in training your Shih Poo and how to address them.

Jumping on People

Jumping on people is a common problem that Shih Poo owners face during training. It can be frustrating when your beloved dog jumps on you or your guests every time you come home or visitors arrive. However, with proper training, this behavior can be reduced or eliminated entirely.

Why do dogs jump on people?

There are many reasons why Shih Poos jump on people, and one of them is to get attention. Dogs love attention, whether it’s positive or negative, and jumping on people can get them the attention they seek. Another reason is excitement or overstimulation. When they see their owners or visitors, they get excited and can’t help but jump on them.

How to train your Shih Poo not to jump on people?

Training your Shih Poo not to jump on people requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Below are some training techniques that you can use:

Technique	Description
Ignore	When your Shih Poo jumps on you or your visitors, turn your back and ignore him. Do not give any attention until he calms down. This method teaches them that jumping won’t get them any attention.
Sit command	Teach your Shih Poo to sit and reward him when he does. Before opening the door for visitors or coming home, make them sit and wait until they are calm. Reward them with treats or praise when they follow the command.
Leash training	Use a leash and collar to control your Shih Poo’s jumping. When they jump on you or your visitors, pull them back and give the “off” command. Reward them when they follow the command.
Positive reinforcement	Always reward your Shih Poo when they follow your commands or behave properly. Use treats or praise when they don’t jump on people, and they will learn to associate good behavior with rewards.

Conclusion

Jumping on people is a common problem, but it can be solved with proper training techniques. Remember to always use positive reinforcement and be patient and consistent with your training. With time and consistency, your Shih Poo will learn to behave appropriately and become a well-trained companion.

Biting and Mouthing

One of the most common training challenges when teaching a Shih Poo basic obedience commands is biting and mouthing. This behavior can be dangerous, especially if your Shih Poo becomes too aggressive or bites someone. It is important to tackle this behavior early on to prevent it from becoming a habit.

Here are some tips to stop your Shih Poo from biting and mouthing:

Tip	Description
1. Redirect their attention	When your Shih Poo starts biting or mouthing, redirect their attention to a toy or bone that they can chew on instead. This will teach them what is appropriate to chew on, and will also help them satisfy their natural tendency to chew and bite.
2. Use positive reinforcement	When your Shih Poo stops biting or mouthing, praise them and give them a treat to reinforce positive behavior. This will encourage them to repeat this behavior in the future.
3. Stop playtime	If your Shih Poo continues to bite or mouth, stop playing with them and walk away. This will teach them that biting and mouthing is not an acceptable behavior and will help them understand that playtime ends when they behave inappropriately.
4. Don’t use physical punishment	Using physical punishment to stop your Shih Poo from biting or mouthing is never recommended. This can be harmful to your Shih Poo and can cause them to become fearful or anxious.
5. Consistency is key	It is important to be consistent with your training and to reinforce positive behavior every time it occurs. This will help your Shih Poo understand the difference between appropriate and inappropriate behavior.

Remember, biting and mouthing is a natural behavior for puppies and young dogs. It is important to be patient and consistent with your training to help your Shih Poo develop appropriate behavior. With time and practice, you can help your Shih Poo learn not to bite or mouth.

Barking

Barking comes naturally to dogs, and Shih Poos are no exception. While barking can sometimes be helpful, excessive barking can become a nuisance and even lead to complaints from neighbors. Here are some tips for teaching your Shih Poo to stop barking excessively:

• Determine the cause: It’s important to understand why your Shih Poo is barking excessively. Is it because they’re bored, hungry, or anxious? Once you determine the cause, you can work towards finding a solution.
• Positive reinforcement: Similar to other basic obedience commands, use positive reinforcement to discourage excessive barking. When they are quiet, reward them with treats, praise or affection.
• Desensitization: If your Shih Poo barks at certain sounds or situations (such as the doorbell or visitors), you can use desensitization techniques to gradually reduce their response to those triggers. Gradually expose them to the sound, starting at a low volume and gradually increasing it over time. Reward them for remaining quiet.
• Ignore and redirect: If your Shih Poo barks for attention, ignore it and do not give them attention. Instead, wait for them to be quiet and then redirect their focus to a new activity, such as a toy or treat.
• Avoid punishment: Never shout at or physically punish your Shih Poo for excessive barking. This will only increase their anxiety or fear and worsen the behaviour.

Remember that barking is a natural behaviour for dogs, so it’s unrealistic to expect them to never bark at all. However, with patience, consistency and positive reinforcement training, you can teach your Shih Poo to control their barking and reduce the frequency of excessive barking.

Pulling on the Leash

Do you find yourself struggling to take a leisurely walk with your furry friend because of their incessant tugging on the leash? You’re not alone. Shih Poos, like many small breeds, tend to have a stubborn streak that can manifest in pulling on the leash. Fortunately, with consistent training and patience, you can teach your pup to walk calmly by your side.

The Problem with Pulling on the Leash

Aside from being an inconvenience, pulling on the leash can actually be dangerous for both you and your Shih Poo. Your pup could accidentally slip out of their collar or harness and run into traffic, or you could lose your balance and fall. Additionally, constant pulling can cause strain on your pup’s neck and spine, leading to discomfort or injury.

Teaching Your Shih Poo to Walk Calmly on a Leash

The key to teaching your Shih Poo to walk calmly on a leash is to reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. When your pup is walking calmly by your side, reward them with verbal praise and the occasional treat. However, when they begin to pull, simply stop walking and stand still until they calm down. This teaches them that pulling won’t get them where they want to go.

Another helpful technique is to use a front-clip harness, which discourages pulling by redirecting your pup’s attention and energy towards you. The leash attaches to the front of the harness, rather than the back, so when your pup pulls, they will turn towards you instead of continuing forward.

Training Tips

Here are some additional tips for combating pulling on the leash:

Tip	Description
Start indoors	Begin by practicing walking calmly on a leash indoors, where there are minimal distractions.
Use a consistent command	Choose a command, such as “heel,” and use it consistently when you want your pup to walk calmly by your side.
Avoid retractable leashes	Retractable leashes can encourage pulling and make it more difficult to control your pup.
Be patient	Remember that training takes time and practice, so be patient with your pup and yourself.

Final Thoughts

By using positive reinforcement and consistent training techniques, you can teach your Shih Poo to walk calmly by your side and enjoy leisurely strolls together. Remember to be patient and persistent, and don’t hesitate to seek out professional help if you’re struggling with training. Soon enough, you and your furry friend will be taking enjoyable walks together without any pulling on the leash.

Advanced Training Techniques

Now that your Shih Poo has mastered the basic commands, it’s time to move on to more advanced training techniques. These commands will not only impress your friends and family but will also challenge your furry friend’s mental abilities. With a bit of persistence and a lot of treats, you can teach your dog some impressive tricks. So, let’s dive into some of the advanced training techniques that will take your Shih Poo’s obedience skills to the next level. Get ready to be amazed at what your pup can achieve with some simple yet effective training techniques.

High-Five Command

Teaching your Shih Poo how to do a high-five is not only a fun trick, but it also helps to establish a bond between you and your fluffy friend. Here’s how to train this command step-by-step:

1. Start with your Shih Poo sitting in front of you.
2. Hold a treat in your closed fist and place it in front of your dog’s nose.
3. Wait for your dog to paw at your hand. As soon as they do, say “Good boy/girl!” in a happy tone and reward them with the treat.
4. Repeat this several times until your dog starts to associate pawing at your hand with getting a treat.
5. Now hold your hand up slightly higher and ask your dog to “give me five” or “high-five” while still keeping your fist closed to start.
6. When your dog paws at your hand, say “Good boy/girl!” and reward them with the treat.
7. Gradually, open your hand and take the treat out after your dog has touched it with their paw, rather than giving the treat immediately.
8. Practice this command regularly until your Shih Poo has mastered it.

Remember to use positive reinforcement by praising and rewarding your dog for their efforts. Also, be patient as it may take some time for your dog to understand what you want them to do. Eventually, your furry friend will be happily high-fiving you!

Rollover Command

One fun command to teach your Shih Poo is the roll over command. This trick involves the dog rolling over onto their back and then back onto their belly. It’s important to note that this command should only be taught to dogs who are comfortable lying on their backs. It’s also important to teach this command slowly and with care to prevent any injuries to your dog.

Here are the steps to teach your Shih Poo the roll over command:

1. Start with the command “down”. Once your dog is lying down, use a treat to get their attention and move it slowly towards their shoulder.
2. This should encourage your dog to roll over onto their side. When they do this, reward them with the treat and say “roll over” in a clear and upbeat voice.
3. Repeat this process several times until your dog begins to roll over confidently when they hear the command.
4. When your dog is comfortable rolling onto their side, it’s time to try getting them to roll all the way onto their back.
5. Use a treat to lead them towards their shoulder again, but this time keep moving the treat up and over their head, which should encourage them to roll onto their back.
6. When they complete the roll, reward them with the treat and say “good rollover” in a happy tone.
7. Repeat this process several times, making sure to use the “roll over” command each time.
8. As your dog continues to get more comfortable with the trick, start to phase out the use of treats and rely only on praise and rubs.
9. Remember, like with all training, consistency is key. Make sure to practice the roll over command daily to reinforce the behavior.

It’s important to always monitor your dog’s comfort level throughout the training process and never force them into a position that makes them uncomfortable. If your Shih Poo seems hesitant or shows any signs of discomfort, it may be best to move on to a different command or to seek the advice of a professional trainer. With patience and perseverance, however, your Shih Poo can master this fun and impressive trick!

Speak Command

The “Speak Command” is a unique trick to teach your Shih Poo, and it can be a fun way to engage with your furry friend. With this trick, your dog will learn to bark on command, which can be useful in certain situations such as alerting you to someone at the door or warning you of potential danger.

To teach your Shih Poo this trick, follow these steps:

Step	Instruction
1	Begin by getting your dog excited and worked up.
2	Once your dog is energetic, say the command “speak” in a firm and clear voice.
3	If your dog barks at this command, give them a reward with a treat or affection.
4	If your dog doesn’t bark, make a noise that will encourage them to bark, such as knocking on a door or barking yourself. When your dog barks, use the command “speak” and reward them.
5	Repeat this process multiple times until your Shih Poo easily barks on command when hearing the phrase “speak“.

It is important to note that even though this trick is fun and entertaining, it is important to always be aware of your Shih Poo’s behavior and make sure they are not excessively barking or causing a disturbance to others. Always practice this trick in a controlled environment and only encourage barking when it is appropriate.

With a little bit of patience and some positive reinforcement, your Shih Poo can easily learn the “Speak Command” and impress all of your friends and family. So go ahead and give it a try!

Fetch Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Fetch Command” can be a fun game for both you and your furry friend. It can also help improve their physical and mental agility. Here are the steps to teach your Shih Poo how to fetch:

• Step 1: Start with soft toys or balls, preferably those that your Shih Poo can easily grab with its mouth. Get your dog’s attention by calling out its name, and show the toy, so that they grow excited and starts to engage with you.
• Step 2: Toss the toy a short distance away (around a few feet away from you), while using the “Fetch” command. If your dog brings the toy back to you, praise them with a treat right away.
• Step 3: Repeat this exercise for a few minutes every day, gradually increasing the distance you throw the toy. After some time, try hiding the toy to add an element of surprise and mystery to the activity.
• Step 4: Once your Shih Poo has mastered the art of fetching, you can take them to a park or an open area and have some fun while continuing to make use of the “Fetch” command. Remember, the more you practice with your dog, the greater their understanding and memory of the command will be, and they will start to look forward to this fun activity.

It’s important to stay patient during the training process and keep in mind that every dog learns at a different pace. Also, never get angry or scold your Shih Poo if they are struggling to understand the command. Instead, use positive reinforcements, such as treats and praises, to encourage and motivate them to learn this fun trick. By following these simple steps, you will be amazed at how quickly your Shih Poo can learn the “Fetch Command”.

Shake Command

One of the most delightful tricks you can teach your Shih Poo is the “Shake” command. This trick involves teaching your dog to lift its paw and shake your hand. It is a relatively easy trick to teach, and it is sure to impress anyone who witnesses it.

Here are the steps to teaching your Shih Poo the “Shake” command:

1. Start by commanding your Shih Poo to “Sit” in a calm voice.
2. Hold a treat in your closed hand and let your dog sniff at it.
3. Place the treat in the palm of your hand and close your hand into a fist over the treat.
4. Without speaking, wait for your Shih Poo to paw at your hand.
5. When your dog does this, say “Good boy/girl!” and release the treat to your dog.
6. Repeat this process several times until your Shih Poo is reliably pawing at your hand in a consistent manner.
7. Next, introduce the command “Shake” just before placing the treat in your hand.
8. As your dog reaches for the treat, say “Shake” and then present your hand.
9. When your Shih Poo paws at your hand, say “Good boy/girl!” and give your dog the treat.
10. Repeat this process several times until your dog is responding to the “Shake” command reliably.

It is important to keep in mind that this trick requires patience and consistency. You should also avoid punishing your dog if it does not get the trick right away. Instead, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.

Tips:

• Always use positive reinforcement when training your Shih Poo.
• Do not expect your dog to learn this trick in one day; it takes time and patience.
• When your dog gets good at this trick, you can gradually reduce the number of treats you use as a reward.
• Remember that consistency is key to successful training; always use the same command and tone of voice.

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Shake” command is a fun and rewarding experience that will strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency, your Shih Poo will be shaking your hand in no time!

Spin Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the spin command is a fun and impressive trick that will amaze your friends and family. With a little patience and practice, your furry friend will be spinning in no time. Here are the steps to teach your Shih Poo the spin command:

1. Start by commanding your dog to “sit” in front of you using the steps outlined earlier.
2. Take a treat in your hand and hold it in front of your dog’s nose.
3. Slowly move the treat in a circular motion, encouraging your dog to follow it with their nose.
4. As your dog follows the treat, use the command “spin” and guide them in a full circle.
5. Reward your Shih Poo with the treat and lots of verbal praise once they complete the spin.
6. Practice this command daily, gradually reducing the amount of guidance needed until your dog can perform the spin on their own.

Remember to use positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding your dog with treats and praise for a job well done. Keep training sessions short and frequent to avoid overwhelming your furry friend. It is important to note that not all dogs are inclined to learn and perform advanced commands like the spin, so be patient and adapt your training techniques to suit your dog’s individual learning style.

Perseverance and patience are key to success when teaching your Shih Poo the spin command. By following the steps outlined above and being consistent with your training, your furry friend will soon be spinning like a pro.

Crawl Command

Teaching your Shih Poo the “Crawl” command is a fun and advanced trick that requires patience and consistency. This command is not only incredibly impressive but can also strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

To begin with, pick a spot with enough space for your Shih Poo to crawl forward. Hold a treat in front of your pup’s nose and slowly guide it towards the ground while saying “crawl” in a clear and firm voice. As your pup starts to crawl, give plenty of praise and treats.

Repeat this process several times until your Shih Poo can crawl a few feet forward without any assistance. After your pup has mastered the command, you can slowly increase the distance between you and your furry friend.

Here’s a breakdown of the steps to train your Shih Poo the “Crawl” command:

Step 1:	Pick a spacious area to train your pup.
Step 2:	Hold a treat in front of your pup’s nose.
Step 3:	Slowly guide the treat towards the ground.
Step 4:	As your pup starts to crawl, say “crawl” in a clear, firm voice.
Step 5:	Praise your pup and give treats as it crawls forward.
Step 6:	Repeat this process several times until your pup can crawl without assistance.
Step 7:	Gradually increase the distance between you and your pup.

As with any new command, it’s important to remain patient and consistent. Your Shih Poo may take longer to learn this trick than others, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t go smoothly at first. With practice and repetition, your furry friend will soon be crawling like a pro.

Conclusion

As a proud owner of a Shih Poo, you have the responsibility of ensuring your furry companion is well-trained and disciplined. The process of training your Shih Poo basic obedience commands can be challenging but ultimately rewarding.

Remember to always use positive reinforcement techniques, consistency, and patience when training your furry friend. Never resort to harsh punishment or yelling as this can damage your relationship with your Shih Poo and hinder their progress.

While teaching basic obedience commands, it’s essential to understand your Shih Poo’s learning style and adjust accordingly. Some Shih Poos may respond better to visual cues, while others may respond to verbal commands. Therefore, try various techniques to see what works best for your furry friend.

Teaching your Shih Poo basic obedience commands such as the Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, Down, Leave it, and Off commands can ensure your furry friend is well-behaved and interacts appropriately with other people and dogs.

Of course, training challenges may occur, like jumping on people, biting, mouthing, barking, or pulling on the leash. However, with patience and consistent training, these challenges can be overcome.

For those looking to take their Shih Poo’s obedience training to the next level, advanced techniques like the High-Five, Rollover, Speak, Fetch, Shake, Spin, and Crawl commands can challenge and stimulate your furry friend mentally.

In conclusion, training your Shih Poo basic obedience commands and addressing any challenges that come up can make you and your furry friend’s life easier and more fulfilling. By using positive reinforcement techniques, consistency, and patience, you can effectively train your Shih Poo and have a strong bond with your furry companion for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to start training a Shih Poo?

The best age to start training your Shih Poo is between 8 and 12 weeks old. Early training helps establish good habits and socialization.

How long should each training session last?

Each training session should last no longer than 10-15 minutes. Training in short sessions helps maintain your Shih Poo’s focus and attention.

What are the benefits of positive reinforcement training?

Positive reinforcement training helps promote good behavior and strengthens the bond between you and your Shih Poo. It is also a humane and effective training method.

What should I do if my Shih Poo doesn’t respond to a command?

If your Shih Poo doesn’t respond to a command, you may need to go back a step in the training process and review the basics. You may also need to adjust your training methods to better suit your dog’s learning style.

How can I prevent my Shih Poo from jumping on people?

To prevent jumping, you can train your Shih Poo to sit and stay when greeting people. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key in training your dog to be calm and polite around people.

What should I do if my Shih Poo bites or mouths me?

If your Shih Poo bites or mouths you, you should immediately stop interacting with them and redirect their attention to a toy or treat. Consistency in training and socialization can help prevent biting and mouthing behaviors.

How can I stop my Shih Poo from barking excessively?

To stop excessive barking, you can train your Shih Poo to be quiet with the use of positive reinforcement training. You can also address the root cause of the barking, such as boredom or anxiety.

What should I do if my Shih Poo pulls on the leash during walks?

If your Shih Poo pulls on the leash, you can train them to walk calmly on a loose leash using positive reinforcement techniques. Consistency and patience are key in addressing this behavior.

What are some good advanced commands to teach my Shih Poo?

Some good advanced commands to teach your Shih Poo include high-five, rollover, spin, crawl, and fetch. These commands help keep your dog mentally stimulated and reinforce good behavior.

How can I ensure that my Shih Poo remains well-trained and obedient?

You can ensure that your Shih Poo remains well-trained and obedient by consistently enforcing good habits, practicing positive reinforcement training, and regularly socializing and exercising your dog.

References

• How to Train Your Shih Tzu: 12 Steps (with Pictures)
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Matthew Farthing

Сontributing author at DoggoLab, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant.

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