Shih Tzu Training
The Shih Tzu was bred purely for companionship, and it shows: this affectionate, outgoing little dog wants nothing more than to be with its people. Charming and playful, it is moderately trainable but carries a stubborn streak and is famously slow to house-train, so patience and a consistent routine are essential. Short, reward-based sessions suit its attention span, and early independence training helps prevent separation anxiety. The Shih Tzu needs little exercise—a couple of short walks and indoor play suffice. Adaptable to apartment life and wonderful with children, it is a devoted, low-energy lap dog with abundant personality.
Below are 30 breed-specific training guides for the Shih Tzu, organized by category.
Obedience
How to Leash Train a Shih TzuTeaching calm, polite walking without pulling on the leash.beginnerHow to Train a Shih Tzu to Come When CalledA reliable recall is the most important safety skill you can teach.intermediateHow to Teach a Shih Tzu to SitThe foundational obedience cue every dog should learn first.beginnerHow to Teach a Shih Tzu to StayBuilding duration, distance, and distraction control with the stay cue.beginnerHow to Teach a Shih Tzu to Leave ItImpulse control around food, objects, and hazards.intermediateHow to Teach a Shih Tzu to HeelPrecision loose-leash walking in the heel position.intermediateHow to Teach a Shih Tzu to Lie DownThe down cue as a building block for settle and impulse control.beginnerHow to Teach a Shih Tzu the Place CommandSending your dog to a mat or bed and holding a relaxed stay.intermediate
Puppy
How to Potty Train a Shih Tzu PuppyA step-by-step house-training routine for reliable results.beginnerHow to Crate Train a Shih TzuMaking the crate a safe, calm den your dog chooses willingly.beginnerHow to Stop a Shih Tzu Puppy From BitingCurbing nipping and teaching gentle bite inhibition.beginnerHow to Socialize a Shih Tzu PuppyBuilding confidence during the critical socialization window.beginnerHow to Stop a Shih Tzu Puppy From Crying at NightSettling a new puppy for peaceful, uninterrupted nights.beginnerThe Ideal Training Schedule for a Shih Tzu PuppyA daily routine balancing training, play, rest, and potty breaks.beginner
Behavior
How to Stop a Shih Tzu From BarkingIdentifying triggers and reducing excessive or nuisance barking.intermediateHow to Treat Separation Anxiety in a Shih TzuA gradual desensitization plan for dogs that panic when left alone.advancedHow to Stop a Shih Tzu From Chewing EverythingManaging destructive chewing and teaching appropriate outlets.beginnerHow to Stop a Shih Tzu From Jumping on PeopleTeaching polite greetings instead of jumping up.beginnerHow to Handle Aggression in a Shih TzuUnderstanding and safely managing aggressive behavior.advancedHow to Fix Leash Reactivity in a Shih TzuReducing lunging and barking at dogs or people on walks.advancedHow to Stop a Shih Tzu From DiggingRedirecting the urge to dig into acceptable outlets.intermediateHow to Stop Resource Guarding in a Shih TzuSafely resolving guarding of food, toys, and spaces.advancedHow to Help a Shih Tzu Overcome Fear of StrangersBuilding confidence in a shy or fearful dog around new people.advancedHow to Stop a Shih Tzu From Counter SurfingKeeping paws off counters and food off the menu.intermediate
Advanced
How to Train a Shih Tzu to Be Off LeashDeveloping the reliability needed for safe off-leash freedom.advancedHow to Clicker Train a Shih TzuUsing marker-based training for fast, precise communication.intermediateHow to Teach a Shih Tzu TricksFun trick training from shake and roll over to advanced chains.intermediateHow to Start Agility Training With a Shih TzuIntroducing your dog to agility equipment and courses.advancedHow to Prepare a Shih Tzu for the Canine Good Citizen TestPassing the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, step by step.intermediateAdvanced Obedience Training for a Shih TzuProofing advanced obedience under real-world distractions.advanced