Potty Training Your Shih Tzu: A Comprehensive Guide
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Known for their independent nature and small bladders, Shih Tzus often require patience, consistency, and a tailored approach to master the art of going potty outside. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps and techniques to successfully potty train your Shih Tzu, ensuring a cleaner home and a happier pup.
## Understanding the Challenges of Potty Training a Shih Tzu
Before diving into the training process, it’s important to acknowledge the potential difficulties associated with potty training this breed:
* **Small Bladder:** Shih Tzus have relatively small bladders, meaning they need to urinate more frequently than larger dogs. This necessitates more frequent potty breaks, especially during the initial stages of training.
* **Independent Nature:** Shih Tzus are known for their independent and sometimes stubborn personalities. This can make them less receptive to traditional training methods, requiring a more patient and persuasive approach.
* **Indoor Preference:** Due to their breeding history as indoor companions, some Shih Tzus may initially prefer eliminating indoors on soft surfaces like carpets or rugs.
* **Anxiety and Stress:** Shih Tzus can be prone to anxiety, which can manifest as accidents or reluctance to go outside. Identifying and addressing any underlying anxiety is crucial for successful potty training.
* **Inconsistent Training:** Inconsistency in training methods or schedules can confuse your Shih Tzu and hinder their progress. Maintaining a consistent routine is essential.
## Essential Supplies for Potty Training
Having the right supplies on hand will make the potty training process smoother and more efficient:
* **High-Quality Dog Food:** A balanced diet contributes to overall health and regular bowel movements, making potty training more predictable.
* **Training Treats:** Small, tasty treats are essential for positive reinforcement. Choose treats that your Shih Tzu finds highly motivating.
* **Enzyme Cleaner:** Accidents are inevitable during potty training. An enzyme cleaner effectively eliminates odors and prevents your Shih Tzu from returning to the same spot.
* **Dog Bed and Crate (Optional):** A comfortable dog bed provides a designated sleeping area, and a crate can be a useful tool for preventing accidents when you’re not able to supervise your Shih Tzu. *Note:* Crate training must be done correctly and humanely, never as punishment.
* **Leash and Collar:** A leash and collar are necessary for taking your Shih Tzu outside to potty.
* **Potty Training Bells (Optional):** Bells can be hung on the door to teach your Shih Tzu to signal when they need to go outside.
* **Designated Potty Spot:** Choose a specific area in your yard for your Shih Tzu to eliminate. This helps them associate that spot with potty time.
* **Poop Bags:** Always clean up after your Shih Tzu to maintain a clean environment and comply with local regulations.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Potty Training Your Shih Tzu
Follow these steps to effectively potty train your Shih Tzu:
**Step 1: Establish a Consistent Routine**
A consistent routine is the foundation of successful potty training. Here’s what a typical potty training schedule should include:
* **Frequent Potty Breaks:** Take your Shih Tzu outside to their designated potty spot every 2-3 hours, especially after waking up, after meals, and after playtime.
* **Scheduled Feeding Times:** Feeding your Shih Tzu at the same times each day helps regulate their digestive system and makes bowel movements more predictable.
* **Consistent Bedtime:** Establish a regular bedtime routine and take your Shih Tzu out for a potty break right before bed.
* **Water Schedule:** Monitor your Shih Tzu’s water intake, especially before bedtime, to reduce nighttime accidents.
**Step 2: Choose a Potty Spot and Command**
* **Designated Area:** Select a specific area in your yard as your Shih Tzu’s potty spot. The consistency of using the same area will help them associate that location with elimination.
* **Verbal Cue:** Choose a simple, consistent verbal cue, such as “Go potty” or “Do your business,” and repeat it each time you take your Shih Tzu to their potty spot.
**Step 3: Supervise Your Shih Tzu Closely**
Close supervision is crucial, especially during the initial stages of potty training. This allows you to anticipate your Shih Tzu’s needs and prevent accidents.
* **Indoor Monitoring:** Keep a close eye on your Shih Tzu when they are indoors. Watch for signs that they need to go potty, such as circling, sniffing, squatting, or scratching at the door.
* **Leash Indoors:** If you can’t directly supervise your Shih Tzu, keep them on a leash and tethered to you. This prevents them from wandering off and having accidents unnoticed.
* **Crate Training (Optional):** If you choose to crate train your Shih Tzu, ensure the crate is appropriately sized and comfortable. Never use the crate as punishment. A dog will naturally avoid soiling it’s living space, and they learn to hold their bladder, if used correctly.
**Step 4: Positive Reinforcement**
Positive reinforcement is far more effective than punishment when potty training a Shih Tzu. Reward your Shih Tzu immediately after they eliminate in the designated potty spot.
* **Verbal Praise:** Offer enthusiastic verbal praise, such as “Good potty!” or “Good dog!”
* **Treats:** Give your Shih Tzu a small, tasty treat immediately after they finish eliminating.
* **Affection:** Provide physical affection, such as petting or scratching, to reinforce positive behavior.
**Step 5: Dealing with Accidents**
Accidents are inevitable during potty training. It’s important to handle them calmly and effectively.
* **Do Not Punish:** Never punish your Shih Tzu for having an accident. This can create fear and anxiety, making them less likely to eliminate in your presence.
* **Interrupt the Accident:** If you catch your Shih Tzu in the act of having an accident, calmly interrupt them with a verbal cue, such as “No!” or “Uh-oh!” and immediately take them outside to their potty spot.
* **Clean Up Thoroughly:** Clean up accidents thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to eliminate odors and prevent your Shih Tzu from returning to the same spot.
**Step 6: Nighttime Potty Training**
Nighttime accidents can be particularly frustrating. Here are some tips for preventing them:
* **Limit Water Before Bed:** Restrict your Shih Tzu’s water intake a few hours before bedtime.
* **Late-Night Potty Break:** Take your Shih Tzu out for a potty break right before bed.
* **Crate Training (Optional):** If you’re using a crate, ensure it’s appropriately sized and comfortable. Your Shih Tzu should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
* **Potty Pads (Optional):** If you’re struggling with nighttime accidents, you can place a potty pad near your Shih Tzu’s sleeping area as a temporary solution. Gradually move the potty pad closer to the door and eventually outside.
**Step 7: Addressing Setbacks**
It’s common for Shih Tzus to experience setbacks during potty training. Don’t get discouraged. Review your training methods and make adjustments as needed.
* **Rule Out Medical Issues:** If your Shih Tzu suddenly starts having frequent accidents, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections or bladder stones.
* **Revisit the Basics:** If you’re experiencing setbacks, go back to the basics of potty training, such as establishing a consistent routine, supervising your Shih Tzu closely, and using positive reinforcement.
* **Consider Professional Help:** If you’re struggling to potty train your Shih Tzu, consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
**Step 8: Using Potty Training Bells (Optional)**
Potty training bells can be a valuable tool for teaching your Shih Tzu to signal when they need to go outside. Here’s how to use them:
* **Introduce the Bells:** Hang the bells on the door that your Shih Tzu uses to go outside.
* **Associate with Potty Time:** Each time you take your Shih Tzu outside to potty, gently tap their nose or paw against the bells.
* **Reward Ringing:** When your Shih Tzu rings the bells on their own, immediately take them outside to their potty spot and reward them with praise and a treat.
**Step 9: Addressing Anxiety and Stress**
Anxiety and stress can significantly impact potty training. Identify and address any underlying anxiety to improve your Shih Tzu’s success.
* **Identify Triggers:** Pay attention to situations or environments that trigger anxiety in your Shih Tzu.
* **Create a Safe Space:** Provide your Shih Tzu with a safe and comfortable space where they can retreat when feeling anxious.
* **Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning:** Gradually expose your Shih Tzu to anxiety-provoking situations while pairing them with positive experiences, such as treats or toys.
* **Consult with a Veterinarian:** If your Shih Tzu’s anxiety is severe, consult with your veterinarian about potential treatment options, such as medication or behavioral therapy.
## Troubleshooting Common Potty Training Problems
Here are some common potty training problems and how to address them:
* **Refusing to Go Outside:** Some Shih Tzus may be reluctant to go outside, especially in inclement weather. Make the outdoor environment more appealing by providing a sheltered area, using a potty pad, or offering high-value treats.
* **Eliminating Immediately After Coming Inside:** This can be a sign that your Shih Tzu didn’t completely empty their bladder or bowels outside. Extend the amount of time you spend outside and encourage them to eliminate again.
* **Hiding to Eliminate:** If your Shih Tzu is hiding to eliminate, it could be a sign that they’re afraid of being punished. Revisit your training methods and focus on positive reinforcement.
* **Marking:** Male Shih Tzus may mark their territory, especially in new environments or when other dogs are present. Neutering can help reduce marking behavior.
* **Excitement Urination:** Some Shih Tzus may urinate when they get excited. Greet your Shih Tzu calmly and avoid overly enthusiastic greetings.
## Long-Term Management and Maintenance
Even after your Shih Tzu is reliably potty trained, it’s important to maintain good habits to prevent accidents.
* **Continue with a Consistent Routine:** Stick to a consistent feeding and potty break schedule.
* **Provide Regular Exercise:** Regular exercise helps regulate bowel movements and reduces anxiety.
* **Monitor Water Intake:** Monitor your Shih Tzu’s water intake, especially before bedtime.
* **Address Medical Issues Promptly:** Seek veterinary care for any medical issues that could affect potty habits.
* **Reinforce Positive Behavior:** Continue to reward your Shih Tzu for eliminating in the designated potty spot.
## Conclusion
Potty training a Shih Tzu requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. By understanding the challenges specific to this breed, establishing a consistent routine, using positive reinforcement, and addressing setbacks effectively, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu and enjoy a cleaner, happier home. Remember that every dog learns at their own pace, so be patient and celebrate small victories along the way. With dedication and perseverance, you and your Shih Tzu can achieve potty training success.