How to Stop a Shih Tzu From Digging
Shih Tzus are charming, affectionate companions with a playful nature, but their curious disposition can lead to destructive digging—especially when bored or anxious. Unlike high-energy breeds that dig from excess energy, Shih Tzus typically dig out of boredom, seeking mental stimulation, or due to separation anxiety, a common challenge in this breed. With moderate trainability (3/5), Shih Tzus respond best to patient, consistent positive reinforcement and creative redirection rather than punishment. This guide provides practical steps to channel your Shih Tzu's digging instinct into acceptable outlets while addressing underlying causes like anxiety and lack of enrichment. The goal is to redirect, not suppress, their natural behaviors using reward-based methods that strengthen your bond.
Step-by-step
- 1
Identify the digging trigger
Observe when and where your Shih Tzu digs most—is it near windows, in specific rooms, or during your absence? Common triggers for this breed include boredom, separation anxiety (a breed weakness), or seeking comfort/cooling spots. Understanding the cause helps you address the root problem with targeted solutions.
- 2
Create an acceptable digging outlet
Set up a designated digging box or sandbox filled with soft materials (blankets, sand, or kinetic sand) in a quiet area. Make it attractive by burying small treats or toys inside, and immediately praise and reward your Shih Tzu when they use it. This positive reinforcement teaches them where digging is welcomed.
- 3
Manage the environment to prevent unauthorized digging
Restrict unsupervised access to high-dig-risk areas using baby gates or closed doors. Given Shih Tzus' moderate energy (2/5), they don't need constant activity, but providing visual access to windows and your company reduces separation anxiety-triggered digging. Block direct access to garden beds or furniture edges.
- 4
Increase mental enrichment and structured play
Offer 20-30 minutes of daily enrichment through puzzle toys, sniff games, and interactive play sessions. Shih Tzus are intelligent despite moderate trainability, and mental stimulation prevents boredom-related digging. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty and engagement.
- 5
Address separation anxiety with gradual desensitization
Since Shih Tzus are prone to separation anxiety, practice short absences (5-10 minutes) and return calmly without fanfare to reduce distress. Leave a worn piece of your clothing or soothing background noise to comfort your dog. Gradually extend absence duration while rewarding calm behavior.
- 6
Reinforce appropriate behavior consistently
Catch your Shih Tzu being good—reward calm, non-digging behavior with treats, praise, or brief play sessions. When you notice digging in unauthorized areas, gently redirect to the digging box without scolding (Shih Tzus respond poorly to harsh corrections). Consistency over 4-6 weeks shows measurable improvement.
Pro tips
- Shih Tzus bond strongly with their owners and dislike being ignored—use this to your advantage by making time with you more rewarding than solo digging. Brief, regular play sessions (even 10 minutes) reduce both boredom and separation anxiety.
- This breed is prone to barking and stubbornness; avoid getting frustrated if progress is slow. Stay calm, patient, and consistent with redirection—Shih Tzus sense your emotions and respond better to gentle persistence than pressure.
- Since Shih Tzus are toy-sized with low-to-moderate energy, they don't require exhausting exercise. Instead, focus on quality mental enrichment and companionship; a mentally satisfied Shih Tzu with minimal separation anxiety is far less likely to dig than a bored, anxious one.
Frequently asked questions
My Shih Tzu digs mainly when I leave the house. Is this just a behavioral issue or is it separation anxiety?+
It's likely separation anxiety, a common Shih Tzu challenge due to their affectionate nature and attachment to owners. Digging during your absence combined with other signs (barking, destructive behavior, excessive drooling) indicates anxiety rather than simple boredom. Address this by gradually building independence through desensitization and providing comfort items. If severe, consult your veterinarian.
How long will it take to stop my Shih Tzu from digging?+
Most Shih Tzus show noticeable improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent redirection and enrichment. Progress depends on your dog's age, the digging trigger, and training consistency. Patience is essential—Shih Tzus have moderate trainability (3/5), so don't expect instant results. Celebrate small wins, like using the digging box once per day.
Can I punish my Shih Tzu for digging in the wrong spot?+
No. Punishment damages the bond with your sensitive, charming Shih Tzu and is ineffective for this breed. Scolding can increase anxiety and worsen digging. Instead, use positive reinforcement—reward the digging box, redirect gently, and manage the environment to prevent mistakes. This approach aligns with Shih Tzus' need for affection and trust.
My Shih Tzu ignores the digging box. What else can I try?+
Make the box more enticing by burying high-value treats, favorite toys, or using scented materials. Bury treats shallow at first so your dog finds them easily, then gradually deepen them. Alternatively, try kinetic sand (softer than regular sand) which some Shih Tzus prefer. Celebrate every interaction with praise, even if they don't dig initially. If disinterest persists, assess whether boredom or anxiety is the real issue.