How to Train a Shih Tzu to Sit

121

Training your Shih Tzu to sit is an essential foundation for obedience training and helps build a strong bond between you and your furry friend. The “sit” command is not only a basic obedience skill but also a useful behavior that can help manage your dog‘s actions in various situations. This guide will provide a comprehensive approach to training your Shih Tzu to sit, covering everything from understanding the breed’s characteristics to step-by-step training techniques and troubleshooting common challenges.

Understanding the Shih Tzu Breed

Before diving into the training process, it’s important to understand the unique characteristics of the Shih Tzu breed that may influence their training.

• Temperament: Shih Tzus are known for their friendly, affectionate, and sometimes stubborn nature. They are intelligent dogs, which can be both an asset and a challenge during training.
• Size and Build: As small dogs, Shih Tzus require gentle handling. Their size makes them suitable for indoor living, but they still need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
• Social Nature: Shih Tzus thrive on human companionship and enjoy being the center of attention. Positive reinforcement methods work well with them because they love to please their owners.

Preparing for Training

• Gather Supplies: You’ll need some basic supplies to start training your Shih Tzu. These include a comfortable collar or harness, a leash, high-value treats (small and soft), and a clicker (optional but useful for clicker training).
• Choose a Training Area: Find a quiet, distraction-free area in your home to begin training. As your dog becomes more proficient, you can gradually introduce more distractions to help them generalize the behavior.
• Set a Schedule: Consistency is key in dog training. Set aside short, frequent training sessions (5-10 minutes) several times a day. This helps keep your Shih Tzu engaged without overwhelming them.

Step-by-Step Training Guide

Establish a Positive Environment:

• • Begin by creating a calm and positive environment. Make sure your Shih Tzu is relaxed and focused before starting the training session.
  • Use a cheerful, encouraging tone of voice to keep your dog engaged.

Luring Method:

• • Hold a treat close to your Shih Tzu’s nose and slowly move it upward and slightly back over their head.
  • As their nose follows the treat, their bottom should naturally lower to the ground.
  • The moment their bottom touches the ground, say “sit” and immediately give them the treat along with praise.
  • Repeat this process several times until your Shih Tzu begins to associate the command “sit” with the action.

Adding the Verbal Command:

• • Once your dog is consistently following the treat into a sitting position, start saying “sit” just before you move the treat.
  • Continue to reward and praise your dog each time they sit on command.

Introducing Hand Signals:

• • Adding a hand signal can reinforce the “sit” command. A common hand signal for “sit” is raising your hand, palm up, in a slight upward motion.
  • Use the hand signal simultaneously with the verbal command, then gradually phase out the treat lure.

Practicing Without a Treat:

• • Once your Shih Tzu reliably sits with the verbal command and hand signal, start practicing without using a treat as a lure.
  • Give the command and hand signal, and when your dog sits, reward them with a treat and praise.
  • Eventually, your dog should respond to the command and signal even if a treat isn’t immediately visible.

Reinforcing the Behavior

Consistency is Key:

• • Practice the “sit” command in various locations around your home and during different activities to reinforce the behavior.
  • Use the command before meals, during playtime, and when greeting guests to help your Shih Tzu generalize the behavior.

Gradual Increase in Difficulty:

• • Gradually introduce distractions during training sessions. Start with minor distractions and increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more proficient.
  • Practice in different environments, such as the backyard, a park, or other places where you typically take your dog.

Positive Reinforcement:

• • Continue to use positive reinforcement to reward your Shih Tzu for sitting on command. This can include treats, verbal praise, petting, or playtime.
  • Occasionally, offer a jackpot reward (a larger number of treats or an especially high-value treat) for particularly good responses.

Troubleshooting Common Challenges

Stubbornness:

• • Shih Tzus can be stubborn, so it’s important to remain patient and consistent. If your dog doesn’t respond, avoid repeating the command multiple times.
  • Instead, go back a few steps in the training process and reinforce the behavior with more frequent rewards and praise.

Lack of Focus:

• • If your Shih Tzu seems easily distracted, try training in a quieter environment with fewer distractions.
  • Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their attention.

Inconsistent Responses:

• • If your dog sits inconsistently, evaluate your training approach. Ensure you are using clear commands, hand signals, and consistent rewards.
  • If necessary, revisit the basic steps and practice more frequently.

Advanced Training Tips

Combining Commands:

• • Once your Shih Tzu has mastered the “sit” command, you can begin combining it with other commands such as “stay,” “come,” or “down.”
  • Practicing these combinations can enhance your dog’s overall obedience and responsiveness.

Training with Clicker:

• • If you choose to use a clicker, introduce it by clicking and then immediately giving your dog a treat to create a positive association.
  • Use the clicker to mark the exact moment your Shih Tzu sits, followed by a treat and praise.

Using the “Sit” Command in Real-Life Scenarios:

• • Incorporate the “sit” command into everyday activities. For example, ask your dog to sit before crossing the street, before mealtime, or when meeting new people.
  • This reinforces the behavior in practical situations and helps your dog understand the usefulness of the command.

Understanding Shih Tzu-Specific Training Needs

Gentle Handling:

• • Due to their small size and delicate build, Shih Tzus require gentle handling during training. Avoid physical force or harsh corrections, as these can cause fear or anxiety.
  • Use positive reinforcement techniques to build trust and cooperation.

Socialization:

• • Proper socialization is crucial for Shih Tzus to develop well-rounded behavior. Introduce your dog to various people, animals, and environments to build their confidence and adaptability.
  • Use the “sit” command during socialization to help manage your dog’s behavior and interactions.

Patience and Persistence:

• • Training a Shih Tzu, like any dog, requires patience and persistence. Each dog learns at their own pace, so avoid becoming frustrated if progress seems slow.
  • Celebrate small successes and continue to practice regularly to reinforce the behavior.

See also: How to Train Your Chihuahua Not to Bite

Conclusion

Training your Shih Tzu to sit is a fundamental aspect of their obedience training and overall behavior management. By understanding the breed’s unique characteristics, preparing appropriately, and following a step-by-step training guide, you can effectively teach your Shih Tzu to respond to the “sit” command. Remember to use positive reinforcement, practice consistently, and be patient with your furry friend. With time and effort, your Shih Tzu will not only master the “sit” command but also develop into a well-behaved and obedient companion.