While housebreaking a puppy may be challenging, but oh so adorable to do, an adult Shih Tzu is another matter. Older dogs that have yet to be housebroken, such as those from a rescue shelter, present a challenge to homeowners.
However, it is a challenge that can be overcome if you know what to do. The first step is to find out if there is an underlying cause. This means whether there is a medical or behavioral reason as to why they soil the floor. If neither of those two issues are present, then you can use simple training combined with the following secrets to housebreak you adult Shih Tzu.
Four Bathroom Trips
In other words, let them out at least four times each day. Provide your Shih Tzu with enough time to do their business before letting them back in the house. Taking them to the same area will help as the scent will encourage them to relief themselves at that location.
Regular Feedings
Feed your dog at the same time with the same amount of food. Take the bowl away once they are finished. This will prevent them from overeating which otherwise leads to accidents.
Watch for Signs of Restlessness
Most Shih Tzus will provide clues that they are ready to relieve themselves. Watch for these signs and when you see it start to happen, let them outside. If you cannot be around all the time, then crate the dog. This will usually keep them from relieving themselves until you get back home.
Alert Them to Bad Behavior
If you catch your Shih Tzu in the act of relieving themselves in the wrong place, alert them to their bad behavior by clapping. Pick the dog up, take them outside, let them finish their business and then offer a reward. You want to alert them, not scare or punish them for their behavior. If you scare them, then the result will be that they will relieve themselves in another place.
You will need to catch them in the act if you want your Shih Tzu to associate what they are doing as being wrong. Plus, clapping which startles them will have a more desirable effect compared to scaring or punishing them.
Eliminate the Scent
Like most dogs, Shih Tzus tend to go in the same place. If this happens inside your home, you will need to scrub the area thoroughly. This will not only eliminate any defecation that has occurred, but you also want to get rid of the scent which encourages them to relieve themselves again. A good cleaning will certainly help in this regard.
Reward
When your Shih Tzu behaves correctly, offer a treat. This will help notify your Shih Tzu that they are doing something right and they will continue to do it.
Housebreaking an adult Shih Tzu is a challenge, but it can be done if you use the right techniques. By following the six secrets to success, you will have an easier time training your Shih Tzu properly.
