About the Shih Tzu
Known for their affectionate and charming but notoriously difficult to house train, with a stubborn streak that comes from centuries of being pampered palace dogs, Shih Tzus have a regal, affectionate charm and surprising stubbornness that makes them sweet lapdogs who will train you if you let them.
Common Shih Tzu Training Challenges
The most common challenge Shih Tzu owners face is house training difficulties and stubbornness. Other frequent issues include house training resistance, stubbornness, barking, and resistance to grooming.
Sound familiar?
Picture your Shih Tzus barking at every guest, having housetraining accidents for months or years, and refusing to walk on a leash because the ground is cold, wet, or not to their liking.
The Right Training Approach for Shih Tzus
The key to training a Shih Tzu lies in leveraging their natural love of their person and desire for comfort that makes treat-based training sessions their idea of a perfect time. Work with their instincts, not against them.
Breed-Specific Training Tip
Shih Tzus are one of the hardest breeds to house train. Use frequent outdoor trips, consistent scheduling, and enzyme cleaners. Accept that it may take 6-12 months. Belly bands help during the learning period.
Begin house training your Shih Tzu puppy immediately with a strict schedule. Every accident indoors sets back progress significantly with this breed.
The Transformation
Whether your Shih Tzu is a stubborn puppy or an adult who still isn't housetrained, the right training approach transforms them. Imagine your sweet little Shih Tzu greeting guests with a calm tail wag, going to their designated potty spot reliably, and walking beside you with a confident little strut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this specifically for Shih Tzus?
My Shih Tzu is already 3 years old. Is it too late?
How quickly will I see results?
What if it does not work for my dog?
What Shih Tzu Owners Say
“Our Shih Tzu had terrible house training difficulties. Within two weeks of following this system, the improvement was dramatic. I wish I had found this sooner.”
George W.
-- Shih Tzu owner“I tried three other training programs before this one. None of them understood Shih Tzus. This guide was written by someone who actually knows the breed.”
Nicole J.
-- Shih Tzu owner“The stubbornness section alone was worth the price. Our Shih Tzu is a completely different dog now. Calm, responsive, and actually listens.”
Beth W.
-- Shih Tzu ownerThe Complete Shih Tzu Obedience System
Whether your Shih Tzu is a stubborn puppy or an adult who still isn't housetrained, this breed-specific system was built for Shih Tzus.
Get the Shih Tzu Training SystemTraining Guides for Similar Breeds
French Bulldog Training Guide
Breed-specific training for charming and affectionate but notoriously stubborn and easily overheated french bulldogs.
Lhasa Apso Training Guide
Breed-specific training for independent and regal Tibetan guardian dog who is deeply loyal to family but views strangers with suspicion and disdain lhasa apsos.
Maltese Training Guide
Breed-specific training for devoted companion who thrives on human attention and develops anxiety disorders when left alone too frequently maltese.
Dachshund Training Guide
Breed-specific training for bold and stubborn with a big-dog attitude in a small body, originally bred to hunt badgers underground dachshunds.