What You Need To Know About Shih Tzu Temperament Problems...

Sometimes it's hard to deal with Shih Tzu temperament problems, but they need to be taken care of nonetheless. There are a variety of Shih Tzu temperament problems that you might face as you deal with your pup or grown dog, but one of the most commonly dealt with are the ones that pertain to dominance.

If you note overly dominant behavior in a puppy it is much easier to train it out of him before he gets older. However, there may be a few things you can do even for older dogs.

The first thing you need to start with when your Shih Tzu, no matter how old they are, walks into your home is to show him his place in the family pack. Some ways to show him this are outlined here:

• Have your family eat before feeding your pup or dog,
• Walk through doors ahead of your dog,
• Don't permit your Shih Tzu to charge up or down the stairs ahead of you,
• Don't allow your doggie to sit or sleep in your chair or bed,
• Above all, you should be respected as the leader of the pack, so work on obedience in your pup or dog.

Another Shih Tzu temperament problem might be what is termed "dominant guarding." As you are teaching him where his place is, sometimes your Shih Tzu will start being overprotective of his things such as bed, food bowl, or toys. Your dog may start growling as you approach his possessions. This should be dealt with quickly.

If a dog won't let you near his food, simply give him only half his ration at dinnertime. Then as he is almost finished with the portion, but still eating, pick up the bowl and add the rest of the food. Over time this will show your Shih Tzu that he doesn't have to be protective of his dish. Similar steps can be taken with bed, toys, or any other things that he is protective over.

Shih Tzu temperament problems can be a pain, but when dealt with quickly and knowledgably you'll find life better for you and your Shih Tzu. This is really important if you adopt a Shih Tzu...