Teddy bear puppies are one of the new designer dog breeds that are created by mixing two purebreds. Teddy bear puppies are the result of crossing a Shih Tzu and a Bichon. They can also sometimes be called Shih-Shons as well. They take on the traits of both breeds, and in this case, both the Shih Tzu and Bichon are easily trained breeds. Training a teddy bear requires some special breed considerations, but is not difficult overall as they are intelligent, loving dogs that want to please you.
Instructions
Feed treats or use praise as rewards. The teddy bear is a small breed, so other training tools are not appropriate for them. Choke collars and pull collars risk hurting the puppy and can get matted into their fine hair.
Repeat the desired behavior frequently. The Shih Tzu side of the teddy bear can be especially stubborn. Teaching them to do certain behaviors will require patience and repetition. Make sure to repeat the training as much as possible to ensure that they have retained the skill.
Train at a time that is most optimal for your puppy. When you first arrive home, your puppy will be excited to see you and need to be taken out This would not be the best time to train your puppy. Pick times of the day when your puppy is alert but not overly excited. It should not be right after meal time as the treats will not be as effective. It should also not be close to bedtime as you do not want to feed them treats that will make them want to eliminate in the middle of the night.
Keep puppy on a leash when teaching commands such as come and stay. Young puppies especially are going to want to run and play. This could be dangerous to them when outside and can make them hard to control when training. By keeping them on a leash or lead, you are controlling the area and the space that they have.
Use sight as well as sound cues. Little breeds, like teddy bears, can be overly excited and not pay attention to one cue. When saying sit, also incorporate a hand gesture such as pointing down. When saying stay, put your hand up in a stop motion. This helps them to visually connect with the command as well as hear the command.
Praise immediately and consistently with words and treats. Little dogs will not connect the praise and treat with the task unless it immediately follows. Make sure to have the treats in hand ready to feed as soon as the trick or command is done. This will help them to connect your praise and happiness with the action that they performed.