Sunday, September 24, 2006

Train Your Shih Tzu Puppy to Heel and Sit


It is never too soon to start training a Shih Tzu puppy. Give your Shih Tzu puppy as much freedom as possible until he is about 4 to 6 months of age. Keep a lead and collar on your Shih Tzu puppy in public places. In many countries it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful if that applies to your country.

Be careful in parks if there are other dogs loose as they may attack a Shih Tzu puppy they think is infringing in their territory.

Plenty of exercise and fresh air is essential for a fast growing young Shih Tzu puppy. Shih Tzu puppies need exercise to strengthen bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs.

Being in public places also allows your Shih Tzu puppy to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general. He should be exercised daily if possible. Daily exercise will help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Starting Basic Shih Tzu Puppy Training

You can start training a Shih Tzu puppy at about 4 to 6 months of age. Ten minutes a day is adequate time for Shih Tzu puppy training. Establish a regular routine for Shih Tzu puppy training. Take your Shih Tzu puppy out at about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session. The Shih Tzu puppy will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.

Teaching a Shih Tzu Puppy to Heel

· Walk at a steady pace with your Shih Tzu puppy on a firm fitting collar and lead. Have him on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL.

· Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg. If your Shih Tzu puppy pulls away or gets distracted, continue walking. Your Shih Tzu puppy will soon get the message and follow along. If you don't stop, he'll have to follow.

· As he follows you after a distraction, pat him saying GOOD DOG or GOOD BOY or GIRL.

· If he tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When he obeys, give him a pat and praise him. Provide him with a special treat of food, preferably a food he likes very much.

Teaching a Shih Tzu Puppy to Sit

  • Once your Shih Tzu puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach him to sit. With him walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on his back end with your left hand. Your Shih Tzu puppy will have no choice but to sit.

  • While lifting with the collar takes weight off his front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing him down. Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising him each time he sits. Give your Shih Tzu puppy a favorite treat.

  • Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times in a 10 minute walk.
    End all training sessions with lots of praise and a favorite treat.

Author: Connie Limon. I raise Shih Tzu puppies. Purchase Shih Tzu puppies online at http://www.stainglassshihtzus.com Please sign up for our newsletter.

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