Shih Tzu Training Tip...

Offering only one Shih Tzu training tip is easy, but maybe not too helpful. But may I offer just four general guides for dealing with training your dog?

1. Know what you expect.

What do you hope to accomplish by Shih Tzu puppy training? Be quite specific. If you do not know what your expectations are for your pet, you will be frustrated. Your dog will be frustrated too! You should be the leader in this relationship. Know what you expect and be sure you are realistic. Animals are individuals with different capabilities.

2. Be consistent.

Be gentle in dealing with your Shih Tzu, but move consistently toward your expectations. Do not be swayed by whining, complaining, fussing or balking. Do not ask your dog to do something unless you are confident that he can do it and will do it. If you do not have control of the situation, then the dog does. If your dog in training is running wide open away from you, do you call him to come back? No! That is a perfect set-up for failure. That is a very important dog training tip. Be steady and consistent.

3. Be patient.

You owe this living creature kind treatment. Gentleness is not weakness. Firmness is not inconsistent with gentleness. Yelling, hitting, kicking are totally out of place when dealing with your pet. Reward desired behavior too. Reward with treats and praise. Be slow to fuss. Nobody likes getting a tongue lashing.

4. Get training yourself.

Training is readily available to help you deal with your pet. You can get training for your pet. But if you do not follow the guidelines discussed here, you may ruin your dog's professional training. You probably need training more than your dog does. Do what you can, as soon as you can, to learn how to deal with your dog

This four part Shih Tzu training tip will work for you and your dog. You can train your Shih Tzu to be a wonderful companion and friend.