Introduction
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a challenge, but it is definitely possible with patience and consistency. Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs, and they can learn to go potty outside with the right training.
This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to potty train your Shih Tzu. We will cover everything from choosing the right potty spot to using positive reinforcement to discourage accidents.
Choosing the Right Potty Spot
The first step in potty training your Shih Tzu is to choose the right potty spot. You want to choose a spot that is convenient for you and your dog, and that is also relatively quiet and private.
A good spot for a Shih Tzu potty area is in your backyard. If you do not have a backyard, you can also use a designated area in your yard or a patch of grass in your neighborhood.
Once you have chosen a potty spot, it is important to designate it as the only place where your Shih Tzu is allowed to go potty. This will help your dog to learn that this is the only place where they are allowed to relieve themselves.
Taking Your Shih Tzu Out Regularly
The next step in potty training your Shih Tzu is to take them out regularly. You should take your dog out at least every two hours, and more often if they are a puppy.
When you take your dog out, be sure to bring them to their designated potty spot. If they go potty outside, be sure to praise them and give them a treat.
If your dog does not go potty outside, do not get discouraged. Just bring them back inside and try again in a few minutes.
Using Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is one of the most important tools you can use when potty training your Shih Tzu. When your dog goes potty outside, be sure to praise them and give them a treat.
Praising your dog and giving them a treat will help them to associate going potty outside with positive things. This will make them more likely to want to go potty outside in the future.
Discourage Accidents
If your Shih Tzu has an accident inside, do not punish them. Punishment will only make them afraid of you and less likely to want to go potty in front of you.
Instead, simply clean up the accident and take your dog outside to their designated potty spot. If they go potty outside, be sure to praise them and give them a treat.
Be Patient and Consistent
Potty training a Shih Tzu takes time and patience. Do not get discouraged if your dog has accidents along the way. Just keep taking them out regularly and using positive reinforcement, and they will eventually get the hang of it.
Here are some additional tips for potty training your Shih Tzu:
Keep your dog on a leash when you take them outside to potty. This will help to prevent them from wandering off and having an accident.
If your dog starts to go potty inside, interrupt them and take them outside immediately.
Clean up any accidents inside with an enzyme cleaner. This will help to remove the odor, which will discourage your dog from going potty in that spot again.
Be consistent with your training. Take your dog out regularly and praise them when they go potty outside.
With patience and consistency, you will be able to potty train your Shih Tzu in no time!
Additional Tips
Use a crate or playpen. A crate or playpen can be a helpful tool for potty training a Shih Tzu. When your dog is in their crate or playpen, they will not be able to have accidents inside. This will help them to learn that they only go potty outside.
Keep an eye on your dog’s body language. Shih Tzus will often give you signs that they need to go potty. These signs can include circling, sniffing the ground, or whining. If you see your dog giving these signs, take them outside immediately.
Be patient and positive. Potty training can be frustrating, but it is important to be patient and positive with your dog. If you get angry or frustrated, your dog will only become more stressed and less likely to learn.
Conclusion
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a challenge, but it is definitely possible with patience and consistency. By following the tips in this article, you can help your dog to learn to go potty outside in no time!
