Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a rewarding experience, transforming your adorable, fluffy companion into a well-behaved member of the family. Shih Tzus, while known for their charm and affectionate nature, can sometimes present unique challenges in housebreaking due to their small size and sometimes stubborn streak. However, with patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu, ensuring a cleaner home and a happier dog. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, tips, and considerations for effectively potty training your Shih Tzu, focusing on positive reinforcement and understanding your dog’s needs.
Understanding Your Shih Tzu: Breed-Specific Considerations
Before diving into the training process, it’s helpful to understand a few characteristics of Shih Tzus that might influence your approach to potty training. As a toy breed, Shih Tzus have smaller bladders, meaning they may need to go out more frequently than larger breeds. They were also bred as companion dogs, often living indoors, which can sometimes make the transition to outdoor potty training a bit more nuanced. Their intelligence is a significant asset, but they can also be prone to developing their own routines, making early and consistent training crucial. Recognizing these traits allows you to set realistic expectations and tailor your training methods for optimal success.
Essential Supplies for Potty Training Success
Having the right supplies on hand can make the potty training journey smoother for both you and your Shih Tzu. Here are some key items to consider:
- Enzymatic Cleaner: Accidents are inevitable during the potty training phase. An enzymatic cleaner is crucial for breaking down pet stains and odors completely, preventing your Shih Tzu from being re-attracted to the same spot.
- Training Treats: Small, high-value treats are excellent for rewarding successful potty breaks. Choose treats that your Shih Tzu absolutely loves to maximize motivation.
- Poop Bags: Essential for cleaning up after your dog during outdoor potty breaks.
- Leash and Collar/Harness: To guide your Shih Tzu to their designated potty spot outdoors.
- Crate: A crate can be a valuable tool for house training, as dogs are naturally reluctant to soil their sleeping area. Ensure the crate is the right size – large enough for your Shih Tzu to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can use one end as a bathroom.
- Potty Pads/Pee Pads: If you opt for indoor potty training or need a backup for frequent outdoor trips, potty pads can be useful.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Potty Training Your Shih Tzu
Potty training success hinges on consistency and positive reinforcement. Follow these steps diligently:
Step 1: Establish a Consistent Routine
Consistency is paramount. Take your Shih Tzu to their designated potty spot at regular intervals throughout the day. Key times include:
- First thing in the morning upon waking.
- After each meal or drinking session.
- After waking from naps.
- After periods of play or excitement.
- Right before bedtime.
For puppies, this might mean as often as every 30-60 minutes initially. For adult dogs, intervals can be extended as they gain better bladder control.
Step 2: Choose a Designated Potty Spot
Select a specific area outdoors (or a designated spot for indoor training with pads) for your Shih Tzu to relieve themselves. Take them to this exact spot every time. This helps them associate the location with the act of going to the bathroom. If you’re training outdoors, always use a leash to guide them to the spot, even in a fenced yard.
Step 3: Supervise Closely Indoors
When your Shih Tzu is not in their crate or confined to a small, easily cleanable area, you must supervise them closely. Watch for signs that they need to go, such as sniffing the ground intently, circling, whining, or suddenly stopping play. If you notice these signals, immediately take them to their potty spot.
Step 4: Positive Reinforcement is Key
When your Shih Tzu successfully eliminates in the designated spot, offer immediate praise and a high-value treat. This positive reinforcement is crucial for them to understand they’ve done the right thing. Make a big deal out of it! Enthusiastic praise like “Good potty!” or “Yes, good boy/girl!” along with a tasty reward, will reinforce the desired behavior.
Step 5: Handling Accidents Effectively
Accidents will happen, especially in the beginning. The most important rule is never punish your dog for an accident. Punishment, especially if it’s delayed, can confuse your dog and make them fearful of eliminating in front of you, even in the right spot. If you catch your dog in the act of having an accident indoors, interrupt them with a clap or a firm “No!” and immediately take them outside to their potty spot. If they finish there, praise and reward them. If you discover an accident after it’s happened, simply clean it up thoroughly with your enzymatic cleaner without making a fuss.
Step 6: Using the Crate for House Training
A crate can be an invaluable tool. Dogs are naturally clean creatures and avoid soiling their den. Introduce the crate positively, making it a comfortable and safe space for your Shih Tzu. Use it for short periods initially, gradually increasing the time. When you take your dog out of the crate, it’s usually time for a potty break. This method helps them learn to hold it, as they won’t want to soil their sleeping area.
Troubleshooting Common Potty Training Issues with Shih Tzus
Even with the best intentions, some challenges may arise. Here are common issues and how to address them:
Issue: My Shih Tzu is peeing in their crate.
- Possible Cause: The crate might be too large, allowing them to designate a potty corner. Alternatively, they may have been left in the crate for too long, exceeding their bladder capacity.
- Solution: Ensure the crate is appropriately sized. If it’s too large, use dividers. Stick to a strict schedule for taking them out of the crate for potty breaks, especially for puppies who need to go out very frequently. Rule out any medical issues with your veterinarian.
Issue: My Shih Tzu only goes potty when I’m watching.
- Possible Cause: They may have been punished for accidents in the past, or they simply haven’t fully made the association between the potty spot and relieving themselves.
- Solution: Return to positive reinforcement. Make the potty breaks a very positive experience with lots of praise and treats. If they don’t go after a few minutes, bring them back inside and try again shortly. Ensure you are not inadvertently rushing them.
Issue: My Shih Tzu is marking their territory indoors.
- Possible Cause: This is more common in intact males but can occur in females and neutered dogs too. It’s often a sign of anxiety, excitement, or trying to establish territory.
- Solution: Clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner. Restrict access to areas where marking has occurred. Consider the use of belly bands for males or doggie diapers for females temporarily. Address any underlying anxiety or excitement triggers. If the dog is intact, discuss spaying or neutering with your vet.
Issue: My Shih Tzu is having frequent accidents after being house-trained.
- Possible Cause: This could indicate a medical problem, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or diabetes. It could also be due to stress, changes in routine, or a lapse in your own consistency.
- Solution: Consult your veterinarian immediately to rule out any health concerns. If no medical issue is found, re-evaluate your training routine and ensure consistency. Identify and address any stressors in the dog’s environment.
Tips for Successful Potty Training Shih Tzus
- Patience is Paramount: Potty training takes time and can vary greatly from dog to dog. Don’t get discouraged.
- Consistency is Crucial: Stick to the routine and rules every single time.
- Celebrate Successes: Make a big deal out of every successful potty trip.
- Never Punish: Focus on rewarding good behavior.
- Know Your Dog: Learn to recognize your Shih Tzu’s specific cues that they need to go.
- Consider Bells for Potty Training Dogs: Some owners find success by hanging bells on the door. You jingle the bells every time you take your dog out, and they eventually learn to ring them themselves when they need to go. This can be particularly helpful for communication.
- Outdoor vs. Indoor Training: Decide early on whether you will focus solely on outdoor training or incorporate potty pads. Consistency within your chosen method is key.
- Adult Shih Tzus: While puppies require more frequent trips, adult Shih Tzus can also be trained. They may have established habits, but with patience and consistency, housebreaking is achievable.
The Long-Term Benefits of Potty Training
Successfully potty training your Shih Tzu not only leads to a cleaner home but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog. A well-trained dog is a more confident dog, and a well-behaved companion brings immense joy. It reduces stress for both owner and pet, allowing for more freedom and enjoyable interactions. Investing the time and effort into potty training your Shih Tzu will pay dividends for years to come, creating a harmonious living environment for everyone.
Remember, every dog is an individual, and the journey to potty training success is unique for each one. By applying these principles with love, patience, and consistency, you can help your Shih Tzu become a clean, happy, and well-adjusted member of your family.
