How do I Keep a Shih Tzu Puppy From Crying in His Cage?

Shih Tzu puppies are very active, playful and small in stature. Due to their small size and big personality, Shih Tzu's require more play time and potty breaks than other dog breeds. According to the Dumb Friends League, puppies under six months of age shouldn't stay in a crate for more than three or four hours at a time as they can't control their bladders and bowels for long periods of time. Learning what triggers or causes your puppy's crying is key in stopping your Shih Tzu puppy from crying in its cage.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog collar
  • Leash
  • Towel
  • Veterinarian
  • Dog treats
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Put your Shih Tzu puppy on a strict potty and playtime schedule. If your puppy isn't getting regular potty and playtime breaks, crying will ensue as a result. Place a collar and leash on your puppy and take it out of the cage every three to four hours for restroom and play breaks. According to the American Shih Tzu Club, you should never reward the dog by letting it out when it barks or cries, but instead wait until it is quiet.

    • 2

      Place the puppy's cage in an area where you're regularly present. Shih Tzu puppies are very sociable dogs and need regular human interaction or they'll become depressed and lonely and cry as a result.

    • 3

      Place a towel over the puppy's cage. The towel will enclose the cage and make it more cozy and safe.

    • 4

      Ignore the puppy's crying. The Dumb Friends League recommends not giving in to your puppy's crying as you'll end up teaching your dog to whine loud and long to get what it wants.

    • 5

      Take your Shih Tzu puppy to a veterinarian to be examined. If your puppy is still crying in it's cage, it may be suffering from a serious injury or illness.