The First 30 Days with Your Shih Tzu Puppy. Care and Training: Get Ready for Fun!
- Elizabeth
- Jun 11
- 5 min read
The First 30 Days with Your Shih Tzu Puppy: Get Ready for Fun!
Yay! You’re bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy! —how exciting! These tiny fluffballs with their soulful eyes are ready to brighten your days, but the first 30 days need some love and prep. This guide shares all the fun details on raising and training your Shih Tzu puppy—from setting up your home to nailing potty time, grooming, and making friends. I’ve tossed in my go-to products with why they shine, based on what works for small breeds like Shih Tzus. Let’s dive in and make those first weeks a blast!
Table of Contents
Week 1: Get Your Home Ready for Your Shih Tzu!
Before Your Puppy Arrives
Setting up your home makes a huge difference for a Shih Tzu puppy—let’s get it right!
• Create a Cozy Spot: Pick a quiet corner for a crate, bed, or blanket. A crate is a must—it helps with housebreaking and gives your pup a calm retreat. The MidWest Homes for Pets iCrate is a winner—sturdy, with a divider for growth and an easy-clean tray. It’s perfect for a small breed adjusting to a new place!
• Stock Up on Essentials: Grab puppy food, bowls, a collar, a leash, and grooming tools. Shih Tzus have silky coats that tangle fast, so daily brushing is key. The Hartz Groomer’s Best Combo Dog Brush is my go-to—it’s got a slicker side for knots and a bristle side for shine. It’s gentle and budget-friendly—ideal for a new pup!
Peek at “10 Common Plants Toxic to Dogs and Puppies” for more safety ideas!
The ASPCA’s guide to toxic plants is also a must-see!
Day 1: Bring Your Shih Tzu Home!
Day one is all about helping your pup feel secure—keep things calm!
• Introduce Family Gently: Have folks meet one at a time with soft pets. Too much excitement can make your new puppy anxious.
• Show Them Their Spot: Pop your pup in their crate or bed with a soft blanket. A toy with a breeder’s scent eases the move. The Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Toy is amazing—it mimics a heartbeat for comfort, plus heat packs make it extra cozy. Pair it with a KONG Puppy Toy for play—stuffed with treats, it’s a distraction champ!
• Start Feeding Right: Offer three to four small meals daily or you can free feed with small-breed puppy food. I wean my puppies to Diamond Puppy Food for standard Shih Tzu, and Royal Canin Small Breed Puppy Food for tiny Imperial Shih Tzu—perfect for tiny jaws and picky eaters! I add some canned pedigree dog food twice a day just because they love it.
Days 2-7: Start a Routine!
Shih Tzus thrive on consistency—let’s build good habits!
• Master Potty Training: Shih Tzu can be stubborn, so patience is key! Take them out every 2-3 hours, after meals, and after naps, with big praise when they go. Litter box training or Fresh Patch Disposable Dog Potty works great—real grass feels like outside! For pee pads, use an IRIS USA Pee Pad Holder to stop dragging—keeps things neater!
• Teach Basic Commands: Start with “sit” using treats and praise. Keep it short—5 minutes tops! Zuke’s Mini Naturals are tiny and tasty—perfect for little learners!
• Ease into Grooming: Brush daily to get them used to it. Check eyes and ears—Shih Tzus get tear stains and ear buildup!
See “Simple Grooming Tips for Shih Tzu Owners” for more!
Week 2: Bonding and Making Friends!
Spend Time with Your Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu love being close—let’s bond!
• Playtime Fun: Try gentle fetch or tug with a Outward Hound Squeaker Ballz. Soft and squeaky, it’s a hit without rough play!
• Crate Training: Get them comfy with short crate times, door open at first. Never use it as punishment—make it their happy spot!
Socializing Your Shih Tzu Puppy
Early friends help them grow confident—do it right!
• Safe Outings: Carry your pup (until shots are done) to see parks or pet stores from afar.
• Meet New People: Invite calm friends, rewarding your pup with treats for staying cool and calm.
• Get Used to Sounds: Get your puppy used to loud noises like vacuums with treats—and love. Show him it’s not scary!
AKC’s socialization tips are gold!
Weeks 3-4: Level Up Training and Health!
Train Your Shih Tzu Puppy
Your pup’s routine is set—let’s build on it!
• Leash Training: Start short yard walks with a Pawaboo Adjustable Dog Harness. Soft and safe for their neck! Stay at home in your own yard to prevent exposure to dangerous diseases until ALL PUPPY SHOTS ARE FINISHED!
• Handle Barking: Redirect with a toy or teach “quiet” with rewards.
• Crate Progress: Close the door for short spells, building up time—keep it cozy!
Health and Vet Checkups
Schedule a vet visit for shots, deworming, and flea/tick care.
• Eye and Ear Care: Wipe tear stains with Vetericyn Plus Eye Wash—it’s gentle and works fast! Check ears for wax too.
• Dental Care: Brush your puppy’s teeth with Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste—poultry flavor makes it easy!
Keep That Mind Busy!
Shih Tzus are smart—keep them engaged!
The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel Puzzle Toy is a blast—squeaky squirrels for “hunting” fun!
Tips for Success with Your Shih Tzu!
• Stay Patient: They can be stubborn—keep training short and positive!
• Watch Your Puppy’s Health: Spot breathing or tummy issues? Call the vet!
• Celebrate Wins: First accident-free night? Shower them with love!
Wrapping Up: Your Shih Tzu Adventure Begins!
The first 30 days with your Shih Tzu puppy are a blast—set a solid foundation with routine, friends, and the right tools! You’re in for cuddles, play, and memories galore. Your Shih Tzu is on track to be your best companion—enjoy every cuddle and every wag!
Note: Chat with your vet for tailored advice. This post has affiliate links—if you buy, I might earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!
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