Shih Tzus, known for their affectionate and playful nature, are wonderful companions who thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Teaching your Shih Tzu new tricks not only strengthens your bond but also keeps your dog engaged and mentally sharp. Here are ten fun tricks to teach your Shih Tzu this year, each designed to entertain and challenge your furry friend.
1. Sit
Teaching your Shih Tzu to sit is one of the most basic yet essential tricks. This command forms the foundation for many other tricks and is a great starting point for any training session. It helps manage your dog’s behavior and enhances communication between you and your pet.
To teach the “sit” command, hold a treat close to your dog’s nose and slowly move it up. As your Shih Tzu follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground. Once they are in the sitting position, say “sit” and reward them with the treat. Repeat this process several times daily until your dog consistently sits on command.
2. Shake Hands
“Shake hands” is a charming and relatively simple trick that impresses everyone. It’s a great way to introduce your Shih Tzu to more complex tricks while strengthening your bond through physical interaction.
Start by having your Shih Tzu sit. Hold a treat in your hand and let them sniff it, but don’t give it to them just yet. Gently lift one of their paws while saying “shake” and then reward them with the treat and praise. Repeat this process until your dog offers their paw on command.
3. Roll Over
“Roll over” is a fun trick that provides good exercise and mental stimulation for your Shih Tzu. It requires patience and repetition but is rewarding for both you and your dog once mastered.
Begin with your Shih Tzu in the “down” position. Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly move it towards their shoulder, encouraging them to turn their head. Continue moving the treat in a circular motion, guiding your dog to roll over. Once they complete the roll, reward them with the treat and praise. Practice this trick in short, regular sessions.
4. Play Dead
Teaching your Shih Tzu to “play dead” is a crowd-pleasing trick that showcases your dog’s ability to follow complex commands. This trick is not only entertaining but also enhances your dog’s focus and obedience.
Start with your Shih Tzu in the “down” position. Hold a treat near their nose and move it towards their shoulder, encouraging them to roll onto their side. As they follow the treat and lie on their side, say “play dead” and reward them with the treat and praise. Practice regularly, gradually increasing the duration your dog stays in the “dead” position.
5. Spin
“Spin” is a dynamic and engaging trick that adds variety to your Shih Tzu’s training routine. It’s a great way to incorporate movement and exercise into your dog’s day while keeping them mentally stimulated.
To teach your dog to spin, hold a treat close to their nose and move it in a circular motion. Encourage your Shih Tzu to follow the treat, completing a full spin. Once they complete the spin, say “spin” and reward them with the treat and praise. Practice in both directions to ensure your dog can spin either way on command.
6. High Five
The “high five” trick is an adorable and interactive way to engage with your Shih Tzu. It builds on the “shake hands” command and enhances your dog’s coordination and balance.
Start with your Shih Tzu in the “sit” position. Hold a treat in your hand and let your dog see it. Raise your hand slightly higher than for the “shake” command and encourage your dog to reach up and touch your hand with their paw. As soon as they do, say “high five” and reward them with the treat and praise. Practice regularly to reinforce the behavior.
7. Speak
Teaching your Shih Tzu to “speak” on command can be useful and entertaining. This trick helps control your dog’s barking by giving them a specific cue to follow, which can be especially helpful in managing excessive barking.
To teach the “speak” command, find a way to prompt your dog to bark, such as knocking on the door or ringing the doorbell. As your dog barks, say “speak” and reward them with a treat and praise. Repeat this process, gradually introducing the command without the initial prompt. Be consistent and patient, and soon your Shih Tzu will bark on command.
8. Fetch
“Fetch” is a classic game that provides excellent physical exercise and mental stimulation for your Shih Tzu. It’s a fun way to burn off energy and keep your dog active, especially if they enjoy chasing and retrieving objects.
Start by choosing a toy your Shih Tzu likes and throw it a short distance. Encourage your dog to chase and retrieve the toy by using an excited tone and clapping your hands. When your dog brings the toy back, reward them with praise and a treat. Gradually increase the distance you throw the toy, and practice regularly to reinforce the behavior.
9. Bow
Teaching your Shih Tzu to “bow” is a cute and impressive trick that showcases their agility and obedience. This trick involves your dog lowering their front half while keeping their hindquarters raised, similar to a play bow.
To teach the “bow” command, start with your dog in the standing position. Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly lower it towards the ground while moving it slightly forward. Encourage your dog to follow the treat, lowering their front half while keeping their back end up. As soon as they are in the bow position, say “bow” and reward them with the treat and praise. Practice regularly to reinforce the behavior.
10. Wave
The “wave” trick is an adorable and endearing behavior that enhances your Shih Tzu’s coordination and balance. It’s a great way to build on the “high five” command and adds a fun twist to your dog’s repertoire of tricks.
Start with your Shih Tzu in the “sit” position. Hold a treat in your hand and let your dog see it. Encourage your dog to lift their paw as if to shake hands or give a high five, but instead of touching your hand, move your hand slightly out of reach. As your dog raises their paw, say “wave” and reward them with the treat and praise. Practice regularly to reinforce the behavior.
Conclusion
Teaching your Shih Tzu new tricks is a rewarding experience that strengthens your bond and keeps your dog mentally and physically stimulated. Starting with basic commands and gradually progressing to more complex tricks can provide endless entertainment and enhance your dog’s overall well-being.
Remember to be patient and consistent, using positive reinforcement to encourage and reward your dog’s efforts. Each Shih Tzu is unique, so tailor your training methods to suit your dog’s personality and learning pace. With dedication and the right techniques, you and your Shih Tzu can enjoy a fun and fulfilling training journey together.
By incorporating these ten fun tricks into your training routine, you’ll keep your Shih Tzu entertained and engaged throughout the year. Whether you’re teaching basic commands or impressive behaviors, the key to successful training lies in building a positive and trusting relationship with your furry friend. Enjoy the process and celebrate each milestone along the way, knowing that you’re enriching your Shih Tzu’s life with every trick they learn.
