Toilet training a new puppy can be a daunting task for any dog owner, but it is an essential step in ensuring that your furry friend lives a happy and healthy life. The Shih Tzu is a popular toy breed known for their affectionate personality and adorable looks, but they can also be notoriously difficult to toilet train. In this article, we will outline some tips and tricks on how to toilet train a Shih Tzu puppy successfully.
- Start Early
The first step in toilet training your Shih Tzu puppy is to start early. Ideally, you should begin training as soon as you bring your puppy home. Puppies have small bladders and will need to relieve themselves frequently, so it’s important to establish a routine as soon as possible.
- Establish a Routine
Establishing a routine is key to toilet training your Shih Tzu puppy. This means taking your puppy outside to relieve themselves at regular intervals throughout the day, such as after meals, playtime, and naps. By doing this, your puppy will learn to associate going outside with relieving themselves and will begin to develop a schedule.
- Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is essential in toilet training your Shih Tzu puppy. This means rewarding your puppy when they go outside to relieve themselves. Praise them, give them treats or offer them toys to play with. This positive reinforcement will help to reinforce good behavior and encourage your puppy to continue going outside to relieve themselves.
- Consistency is Key
Consistency is essential when toilet training your Shih Tzu puppy. This means keeping to a routine and using the same commands and praise each time you take your puppy outside to relieve themselves. This consistency will help your puppy to learn what is expected of them and what behavior is rewarded.
- Supervision
Supervision is critical when toilet training your Shih Tzu puppy. Until your puppy is fully trained, they should not be left unsupervised in the house. This means keeping an eye on them at all times and taking them outside to relieve themselves regularly. This way, you can catch accidents before they happen and help your puppy to develop good habits.
- Use a Crate
Using a crate can be helpful in toilet training your Shih Tzu puppy. Dogs have a natural instinct to keep their sleeping area clean, so by using a crate, you can encourage your puppy to hold their bladder until they are taken outside. The crate should be just big enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably. You should never leave your puppy in their crate for extended periods, as this can lead to anxiety and stress.
- Be Patient
Toilet training a Shih Tzu puppy can take time and patience. Accidents will happen, and it’s important to remain calm and patient throughout the process. Yelling or punishing your puppy for accidents will only confuse and frighten them, and can make the training process take even longer.
In conclusion, toilet training a Shih Tzu puppy requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By establishing a routine, using positive reinforcement, supervising your puppy, using a crate, and being patient, you can help your Shih Tzu puppy to develop good toilet habits and become a well-trained, happy, and healthy member of your family.
