Just like humans, your Shih Tzu needs plenty of exercise, a good, healthy diet, and mental challenges to keep them sharp and alert. Your Shih Tzu can become bored and agitated if they do not have something of interest to keep their attention. What follows are six excellent ways to ensure that your Shih Tzu stays sharp, alert, and happy.
Job
Everyone needs a job or task that they must do and Shih Tzus are no exception. The job can be a simple one from playing fetch to swimming or simply taking your dog for a walk. Shih Tzus are bright, happy, and energetic dogs which means that playtime can become their job, something they look forward to doing with you regularly.
All you need to do is find an activity that they enjoy and repeat it with regularity. They will view that as their job which means you have a happier, healthier Shih Tzu.
Walks
This may sound rather simple but taking your dog for a walk is one of the best ways to keep them sharp, alert, and happy. You are getting them out of their normal environment and take them on an adventure. For you Shih Tzu, this can be quite the experience as they can see what else is going on around the home.
Plus, you can take your Shih Tzu on errands, just be sure that where you go is a place where your dog can enter. You do not want to leave them in the car too long.
Dog Park
The dog park has become a popular pastime in recent years thanks in large part to the happiness your Shih Tzus will have in seeing and interacting with other dogs. Because the park is a neutral setting, the territorial instincts are not present which means that your dog will be relaxed and happy. Just remember that you will need to make sure your dog is vaccinated and check your Shih Tzu for any sign of infection, such as from worms which are more likely to spread when dogs are together in this fashion.
Games
Playing with your dog on a regular basis is a must for the health of your Shih Tzu as well as you. However, you can add to your playtime with a few fun games that include canine puzzles and board games that are designed for your dog. There are plenty of fun games that include dog dominoes, dog memory games, and the ever-popular toys where treats are hidden inside.
Toys
A new toy brings more playtime for your Shih Tzu. You can purchase a series of toys and bring one out every few days, replacing the old one. This will help keep your dog happy as they play with the toy with a new passion.
Tricks
Teaching your Shih Tzu a new trick provides the type of mental stimulation needed to keep them alert. Start with the basic commands such as stand and sit, but you can progress from there to add more tricks that they can learn. There are plenty of simple tricks that you can learn to teach your Shih Tzu and before you know it, your dog can perform an entire act.
