Potty Training Your Shih-Tzu: Training Pads or Outside?

Potty Training your Shih-Tzu: Training Pads or Outside?

Introduction:

Potty training is an essential aspect of owning a Shih-Tzu or any other dog breed. It requires consistency, patience, and understanding to teach your furry friend where they should do their business. In this blog post, we will explore two popular methods of potty training Shih-Tzus: using training pads indoors or teaching them to go outside. Understanding the pros and cons of each approach will help you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and your dog's needs.

1. Training Pads:

Using training pads indoors can be a convenient option, especially if you live in an apartment or have limited access to outdoor spaces. Here's how you can successfully use training pads for potty training your Shih-Tzu:

- Choose an appropriate location: Select a specific area in your home where you want your Shih-Tzu to use the training pads consistently. It could be a bathroom, laundry room, or any other easily accessible spot.

- Establish a routine: Puppies thrive on routine, so establish a consistent schedule for taking them to the training pad. Take them to the designated spot after meals, playtime, and naps, as well as first thing in the morning and before bed.

- Encourage and reward: When your Shih-Tzu uses the training pad correctly, praise them enthusiastically and offer a small treat or verbal encouragement. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce the desired behavior.

2. Outside Training:

Teaching your Shih-Tzu to go outside to eliminate is a more traditional approach and can be ideal if you have easy access to a safe outdoor space. Here are some tips to successfully potty train your Shih-Tzu outside:

- Establish a routine: Just like with training pads, establish a consistent schedule for outdoor potty breaks. Take your Shih-Tzu outside after meals, playtime, waking up, and before bed. Consistency is key to reinforce the desired behavior.

- Choose a specific spot: Select a designated area in your yard or nearby outdoor space where you want your Shih-Tzu to do their business. The scent of their previous eliminations will encourage them to go in that spot again.

- Reward and praise: When your Shih-Tzu successfully eliminates outside, shower them with praise, treats, and affection. This positive reinforcement will strengthen their understanding that going outside is the desired behavior.

- Be patient and persistent: Potty training takes time, and accidents are inevitable. Stay patient, avoid scolding or punishing your Shih-Tzu for accidents, and instead focus on redirecting them to the appropriate spot.

Conclusion:

Whether you choose to use training pads or teach your Shih-Tzu to go outside, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful potty training. Consider your living situation, lifestyle, and the needs of your dog when deciding which method to use. Remember, accidents happen, and it's important to remain patient and understanding throughout the process. With time and consistent training, your Shih-Tzu will become a well-trained and housebroken companion.