7+ Ways to Train Your Shih Tzu (Without Losing Your Mind)

Shih Tzus are cute, fluffy, and sassy. These little lions win hearts everywhere. But training them? That’s a whole new game.

Does your Shih Tzu act like they can’t hear you? Do they refuse to walk in the rain? Do they think they run the show at home?

We understand. Since 2012, we’ve trained many stubborn pups like yours. We use playful, gentle methods that work—no tricks or harsh punishments.

Let’s get straight to it. Here’s how we train Shih Tzu in Omaha.

1. Understanding Your Shih Tzu

Their Royal Attitude

Shih Tzus were meant for luxury. They lounged on soft cushions while emperors pampered them. That attitude sticks. They crave love, cuddles, and snacks—when they want.

They adore people but decide when to listen. Training takes patience and rewards. Forget harsh punishments; Shih Tzus shut down quickly. Positive reinforcement is the way.

Common Quirks and Challenges

These tiny dogs have big personalities. Here’s what to watch for:

• Selective Hearing: “Sit? What’s that?” Use treats to make commands worth their time.
• Stubbornness: If they resist, switch it up. Keep it fun.
• Potty Problems: They need frequent potty breaks. Stick to a schedule.
• Separation Anxiety: They hate being solo. Gradual training helps.
• Barking at Everything: They hate being solo. Gradual training helps.

2. Fearful Dog: From Panic to Calm

Some dogs, like Wally the Shih Tzu mix, shy away from strangers. Fear turns every movement into a threat. But with the right plan, even anxious pups will chill out.

Building Trust Easily

Wally wanted space, not treats. David sat close but didn’t pressure him. If Wally got scared, David gently stepped on the leash to keep him close—no stress, just a lesson. When Wally relaxed, the leash went loose—lesson learned.

Improving Confidence

Fearful dogs thrive on small victories, and teaching tricks improves their self-esteem. Wally’s guardians practiced a new trick weekly, and more wins meant less fear. David even suggested puppy classes for fun distractions.

3. Potty Training: No More Messes

Shih Tzu mixes, like Bailey, need a solid potty plan. If you miss the steps, accidents happen. Stick to the plan, and she’ll learn quickly.

Potty Training Steps

• Take her out every 2-3 hours.
• Reward her the second she goes.
• Use the same potty spot each time.
• Watch for signs: circling, sniffing, pacing.
• If an accident happens, clean it up and move on.

David does the same. Once your Shih Tzu masters potty training, she can learn to ring a bell to go out. It becomes a game. Guide her paw to ring the bell before heading outside. With practice, she’ll ring it herself.

4. Basic Commands: Make Life Easier

Shih Tzus love treats, so use them wisely. Keep sessions short, fun, and upbeat.

David knew Luke and Lola needed more structure. He used simple commands to help them respect their humans. He introduced “Petting with a Purpose.” Before cuddling, they had to sit, lay down, or come. It helped them see humans as leaders.

• To teach “sit,” David had the guardians hold a treat near their noses and slowly move it up. When their butt hit the floor, David rewarded them. Repeating this helped Luke and Lola respond faster.
• For “come,” David had the guardians start in a quiet space. They said their names, then “come” while holding a treat at their level. Rewarding the two dogs when they reached their guardians made the command fun and effective.
• To teach “stay,” David asked the guardians to have the dogs sit, then hold a hand like a stop sign while saying “stay.” Stepping back gradually, they rewarded the dogs for holding their position. With practice, Lola and Luke learned to stay put even with distractions.

5. Leash Training: No More Stubborn Stops

Shih Tzus can be picky walkers. Some won’t budge, while others zigzag everywhere. Here’s how to make walks enjoyable.

For the Statue Shih Tzu:

• Use treats to coax them forward.
• Bring energy—make it exciting.
• Don’t pull on the leash.

For the Zigzagger:

• Stop when they pull.
• Reward them for walking beside you.
• Keep walks short and joyful.

6. Fixing Barking Issues

Shih Tzus bark at everything. A leaf moves? Bark. Wind blows? Bark. It’s tiring.

David showed Sushi and Midnight’s guardian a new approach. Instead of shushing them, he suggested a fun game. First, he had the guardian list sounds that triggered barking. Then, they paired those sounds with yummy treats. Instead of barking, the dogs expected a yummy surprise.

He taught them key words for success. They heard “yes” or a fun word before treats when they stayed quiet after a sound. It built a strong link—quiet meant treats.

Another tip? Reward calm before barking starts. Many wait until dogs bark, but catching them quiet prevents barking for good.

7. Handling Separation Anxiety

Some dogs struggle to be alone, and Flora and Wriggley are no exception. Their humans faced panic every time they left.

David showed them how to build independence step by step. Start with short absences—seconds at first. Teach them that alone time is no big deal.

He introduced the Stay command for confidence. Teach them to stay longer and out of sight. It builds their trust in being away from their people.

Keep arrivals and departures low-key. Avoid big goodbyes that increase anxiety. Instead, ignore them before leaving and reward calm behavior on return.

Make alone time fun with special toys they only get when alone. It teaches them that being alone means fun surprises, not fear.

8. Fun Tricks for Extra Bonding

Once they grasp the basics, try fun tricks. Shih Tzus love to show off.

Spin

• Hold a treat near their nose.
• Move your hand in a circle.
• When they follow, say “spin” and reward them.
• Repeat both ways.

High-Five

• Ask for a “sit.”
• Hold a treat in your closed hand.
• When they lift a paw, say “high-five” and reward them.
• Repeat until they get it.

Enjoy a Well-Trained, Happy Shih Tzu

Training a Shih Tzu requires patience, but it pays off. Every lesson builds trust. Every success brings you closer.

Need expert advice? We’ve helped countless small dogs like yours. Let’s make your Shih Tzu the best pup in the neighborhood.

Train Your Shih Tzu Visit Dog Gone Problems today, and start training with confidence.