Shih tzu dogs are notoriously difficult to potty-train, according to the American Shih Tzu Club. However, the method that seems to work the best is crate training. Crate training employs the thinking that a dog will avoid going to the bathroom where he sleeps or eats. Therefore, if your Shih Tzu is left in the crate for when you are not home to supervise, he will probably not eliminate there. However, setting up a routine with your Shih Tzu and supplying the proper crate are the keys to successful training.
Things You'll Need
- Crate
- Treats
- Toys
- Enzymatic cleaner
Instructions
Supply your Shih Tzu with a crate that is just the right size̵2;just big enough for him to stand up and turn around. According to the Shih Tzu information website GAShihTzu.com, crates that generally work the best are about two-feet by two-feet in size. However, purchase the crate that suits your Shih Tzu best. If you have a Shih Tzu puppy, you can buy a crate that will fit when he is an adult, just place a large blanket or divider in the excess area to keep the puppy out of it.
Help your Shih Tzu become comfortable with the crate. Shih Tzu dogs are generally social and like to be around their owners. Therefore, leave the door to the crate open in a common area of your house to entice him to enter. In addition, place the dog̵7;s favorite treats or toys inside and consider feeding a meal or two in the crate so that the dog learns the crate is an enjoyable area. In addition, when you place your Shih Tzu in the crate, reward him with a treat. Never give treats when the Shih Tzu leaves the crate, as that rewards exit and you want to reward entrance instead. To comfort the Shih Twu when you are gone, consider leaving a television or radio on.
Establish a routine with your Shih Tzu. Most dogs need to eliminate before and after eating, sleeping and playing. If you have a puppy, he may need to go a few times in between as well. Therefore, always take your Shih Tzu outside at the same time. This will help the pooch understand how long he has to go before being let outside. Once the Shih Tzu becomes familiar with the routine, potty-training is typically successful.
Leave your Shih Tzu in the crate when you aren̵7;t able to provide supervision. This will not only assist in potty-training, but will also prevent your pooch from hurting himself and other objects in your house. When you let your Shih Tzu out of the crate, immediately take him outside. If you have a puppy, consider hiring a pet-sitter to let him out if you will be gone for long periods of time. In addition, expect to wake up a few times each night to let your puppy out.