Shih Tzu Puppy Training Tips
Puppy training isn’t always for the faint of heart. Even if you follow all training advice to the tee mistakes are bound to happen. Your new Shih Tzu puppy is a living creature that will learn over time but probably not overnight. Patience and consistency are important when training a puppy for the first time. I have put together a list of tips that I hope make puppy training go smoothly.
Potty Training
Purchase all of the potty training supplies before your puppy’s arrival. Find out from your breeder what potty training method she or he recommends. Or if you prefer, research potty training techniques and choose one that will fit your family’s lifestyle. Once you choose a potty training method commit to it and be consistent. In the wild puppies relieve themselves wherever they prefer. It is your job to teach your puppy what places are acceptable to go potty.
Spending a lot of time outdoors is helpful if you only want your puppy to potty outdoors. It is often helpful to choose a smaller area in the yard to begin with. If your puppy always goes potty in the same area he or she will start to become familiar with the scent left behind. This will make future potty trips easier. Don’t forget to stock up on treats before your new Shih Tzu puppy comes home. Treats and praise do help to expedite the process. Having a schedule helps as well.
Fun Time
Get ready for playtime! Most Shih Tzu puppies have a great deal of energy. They love a good run around the yard or learning how to fetch. Most puppies also love playing with toys. You can use playtime as training time as well. For instance, before you introduce a new toy have your puppy sit. Once your puppy sits reward him or her with the toy. This is a great way to reinforce positive training. Training doesn’t have to be boring. Try and make it enjoyable and your puppy will look forward to training sessions.
Pay Attention
Focus is extremely important when it comes to training your Shih Tzu puppy. Turning your attention away for a minute or two while your puppy is unattended could spell trouble. It doesn’t take long for a puppy to discover something to chew on. The problem is you may not like it if your puppy chews on your brand-new wooden end table. If you’re not able to give your puppy your undivided attention the puppy must be put in a safe place such as a puppy playpen.
Make bedtime a positive experience
The first few nights may be challenging for your new little one. Mom and littermates are no longer around to snuggle with at bedtime. As a Shih Tzu Breeder, I send all my clients home with a blanket and toy that have mom’s and littermates’ scent. These items can provide a great deal of comfort in the first few weeks while your puppy is still adjusting. A snuggle puppy is another great option because it has a heartbeat that may soothe your puppy. You may also want to consider a night light, soothing music, and putting the puppy’s playpen in your bedroom for the first week or so.
Continue the Socialization Process
All puppies need adequate socialization to get the very best start in life. Hopefully, you’re getting a Shih Tzu puppy from a responsible breeder. As a responsible Shih Tzu Breeder, I raise all of my puppies on a developmentally appropriate curriculum that ensures optimal socialization. I expect my Shih Tzu puppy owners to continue working on socialization once the puppy goes home. Socialization is key to creating a well-rounded puppy.
It is important to introduce the new puppy to new people, places, and things. Your puppy must always perceive the world as a safe place. Otherwise, fear may set in which is hard to reverse. It is essential to remember to keep your puppy safe from canine diseases at the same time. Most puppies are not done with the puppy vaccination series by the time they head home. This means they’re susceptible to viruses, bacteria, parasites, etc. Some viruses such as Parvovirus can be lethal in young puppies.
The easiest way to socialize your puppy while avoiding disease is to keep all four paws off the floor when out of the home. Buy a puppy stroller and go for a walk around the block. Or invite a fully inoculated dog over for a visit. If family and friends come over to visit the new puppy simply have them leave their shoes at the door out of your puppy’s reach. Also, make sure they wash their hands and haven’t had any contact with any sick animals within a week of the visit.
There are so many things that your new best friend will need to learn. Fortunately, most puppies are usually eager to learn, especially with the right motivator, such as a tasty treat. Puppy training may seem a little overwhelming at first but hang in there, patience is key to success! Remember to keep it fun and positive and your puppy will most likely be an eager student ready to learn.
