Potty training your Shih Tzu can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With patience, consistency, and the right techniques, you can successfully train your Shih Tzu to do their business in the appropriate place. This guide will walk you through six essential steps to potty training your Shih Tzu, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process for both you and your furry friend.
Step 1: Establish a Routine
Consistency is key when potty training your Shih Tzu. Dogs thrive on routine, and establishing a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and bathroom breaks will help your Shih Tzu understand when and where they should go potty. Take your Shih Tzu outside at the same times each day, such as after meals, before bedtime, and first thing in the morning.
Setting a Schedule
Create a schedule that includes taking your Shih Tzu outside every 2-3 hours, especially during the initial stages of training. Keep a journal to track your Shih Tzu’s potty habits, noting the times they go and any patterns that emerge. This will help you anticipate their needs and adjust the schedule accordingly.
Step 2: Choose a Potty Spot
Designate a specific spot in your yard or near your home for your Shih Tzu to use as their potty area. This helps reinforce the idea that this is the appropriate place to go. The smell of previous visits will encourage them to use the same spot.
Potty Spot Training
Take your Shih Tzu to the chosen potty spot each time you go outside. Use a consistent command, such as “Go potty,” to signal that it’s time to do their business. Reward your Shih Tzu with praise or a small treat immediately after they go in the designated spot. This positive reinforcement will help them associate the spot with potty time.
Step 3: Use a Crate
Crate training can be an effective tool for potty training your Shih Tzu. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate can help prevent accidents in the house. Choose a crate that is appropriately sized for your Shih Tzu, allowing them enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Crate Training Basics
Introduce your Shih Tzu to the crate gradually, making it a positive and comfortable space. Use the crate for short periods initially, gradually increasing the time as your Shih Tzu becomes more comfortable. Always take your Shih Tzu outside to the potty spot immediately after releasing them from the crate. Avoid using the crate as a form of punishment to ensure your Shih Tzu has a positive association with it.
Step 4: Supervise and Confine
Supervision and confinement are crucial during the potty training process. When you are unable to supervise your Shih Tzu closely, confine them to a safe and comfortable area, such as a crate or a small room with easy-to-clean floors.
Effective Supervision
Keep your Shih Tzu within your sight at all times when they are not confined. Look for signs that they need to go, such as sniffing the ground, circling, or whining. If you notice these behaviors, take them outside to the designated potty spot immediately. Use baby gates or playpens to restrict your Shih Tzu’s access to areas where they are more likely to have accidents.
Step 5: Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in potty training. Rewarding your Shih Tzu for going potty in the right place reinforces good behavior and encourages them to repeat it. Use treats, praise, and affection to let your Shih Tzu know they’ve done a good job.
Rewarding Good Behavior
Give your Shih Tzu a treat or lots of praise immediately after they go potty in the designated spot. Make sure the reward is given within a few seconds of them finishing, so they clearly associate the action with the reward. Be consistent with rewards during the initial stages of training and gradually reduce the frequency as your Shih Tzu becomes more reliable.
Step 6: Handle Accidents Properly
Accidents are inevitable during the potty training process. It’s important to handle them correctly to avoid confusing your Shih Tzu and to prevent them from developing bad habits. Never punish your Shih Tzu for having an accident, as this can create fear and anxiety, making training more difficult.
Cleaning and Redirection
If you catch your Shih Tzu in the act of having an accident, calmly interrupt them with a firm “No” or clap your hands. Immediately take them outside to the designated potty spot to finish. Clean up accidents thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering odors that might attract your Shih Tzu to the same spot. Avoid scolding or punishing your Shih Tzu after the fact, as they won’t understand the connection between the punishment and the accident.
Conclusion
Potty training your Shih Tzu requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By establishing a routine, choosing a designated potty spot, using a crate, supervising and confining, rewarding good behavior, and handling accidents properly, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu and create a positive, stress-free environment for both you and your dog. Remember, every Shih Tzu is different, and the training process may take time. Stay patient, remain consistent, and celebrate the small victories along the way. With dedication and the right approach, your Shih Tzu will become a well-trained and happy member of your household.
