How to Housebreak a Shitzu

According to the American Shih Tzu Club, Shih Tzu puppies have a reputation of being difficult to housebreak. Owners of Shih Tzus are often charmed by their puppy's cute faces and fail to reinforce the potty commands. Shih Tzu puppies are known for having strong personalities and the desire to do what they want. Owners who remain consistent with their Shih Tzu puppy will succeed in potty training.

Things You'll Need

  • Kennel
  • Leash
  • Time
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your puppy on a leash and take it outside every 2 hours. This helps create a schedule for your Shih Tzu puppy and teaches it to expect to go outside to go to the bathroom.

    • 2

      Take your Shih Tzu puppy to the same place in the yard to go potty every time. Tell it to "potty" every time you go to this spot. This will help to train your puppy to go potty on command, which will a benefit in the future.

    • 3

      Watch your Shih Tzu puppy closely. If your puppy starts to circle, sniffs the ground or squats, your Shih Tzu is looking for a place to potty. Immediately clap your hands loudly to get your puppy's attention. Call to your puppy in an excited voice to come with you outside so it stays focused on you.

    • 4

      Place your puppy in a small kennel when you can't be with it. Dogs naturally don't like to mess where they sleep. Take your Shih Tzu puppy outside to its potty spot immediately after letting it out of the kennel.

    • 5

      Reward your Shih Tzu puppy every time it goes potty where it is supposed to go. Give it lots of petting and praise with an excited and encouraging voice. Shih Tzu puppies like to be praised and see you happy, so this behavior will reinforce the puppy's desire to potty outside.