Training your Shih Tzu is an important part of ensuring they are well-behaved, happy, and safe. Teaching them essential commands not only makes your life easier but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Here are six essential commands every Shih Tzu should know:
1. Sit
Teaching your Shih Tzu to sit is one of the most fundamental commands and serves as the foundation for other behaviors. This command can help manage your dog’s excitement and ensure they are calm in various situations. It’s also a useful tool for preventing unwanted behaviors like jumping on guests or running out the door.
To teach your Shih Tzu to sit, hold a treat close to their nose and move it upward. As their head follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground. Once they are in a sitting position, give the treat and plenty of praise. Consistent practice will help reinforce this behavior.
2. Stay
The stay command is crucial for keeping your Shih Tzu safe and under control. Whether you’re preventing them from darting into traffic or simply wanting them to remain in place while you attend to something, stay is an essential command for any dog to learn.
Begin by asking your Shih Tzu to sit. Then, with a treat in hand, say “stay” and take a step back. If they remain in place, reward them with the treat and praise. Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay, always rewarding positive behavior. Patience and consistency are key to mastering this command.
3. Come
The come command is vital for ensuring your Shih Tzu returns to you promptly, especially in potentially dangerous situations. This command can help prevent your dog from running away or getting into trouble when off-leash.
Start by using a leash and a treat to encourage your Shih Tzu to come to you. Say “come” in a cheerful tone and gently pull the leash towards you. When they reach you, reward them with the treat and praise. Practice this command in various environments to ensure your Shih Tzu responds reliably, regardless of distractions.
4. Down
Teaching your Shih Tzu to lie down is another important command that can help manage their behavior and keep them calm. This command is particularly useful in situations where you need your dog to settle down and relax, such as during vet visits or when guests are over.
To teach the down command, start with your Shih Tzu in a sitting position. Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly move it towards the ground. As their nose follows the treat, their body will naturally lower into a lying position. Once they are lying down, reward them with the treat and praise. Practice regularly to reinforce this behavior.
5. Leave It
The leave it command is essential for preventing your Shih Tzu from picking up or eating something they shouldn’t. This command can protect them from harmful substances and help manage their curiosity in various environments.
Begin by placing a treat in your hand and showing it to your Shih Tzu. Close your hand and say “leave it.” Wait for them to lose interest in the treat and look away or back at you. When they do, reward them with a different treat and praise. Practice this command with different objects to ensure they understand to leave anything you ask them to.
6. Heel
Teaching your Shih Tzu to heel ensures they walk calmly by your side without pulling on the leash. This command is particularly important for small dogs like Shih Tzus, as it helps prevent them from getting underfoot or darting off unexpectedly.
Start by holding a treat at your side and encouraging your Shih Tzu to walk beside you. Say “heel” and take a few steps forward. Reward them with the treat and praise for staying by your side. Gradually increase the distance and practice in different environments to reinforce this behavior. Consistency and positive reinforcement are crucial for mastering this command.
Conclusion
Training your Shih Tzu with these six essential commands—sit, stay, come, down, leave it, and heel—can significantly enhance their behavior and safety. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. By investing time in teaching these commands, you not only create a more obedient and well-behaved pet but also strengthen the bond between you and your Shih Tzu.
Ensuring your Shih Tzu understands and responds to these commands can lead to a happier, safer, and more enjoyable life for both you and your furry friend. Start training today and experience the benefits of a well-trained Shih Tzu.