Shih Tzu Behaviour Problems: Common Problems and How to Deal with Them

Being a hugely popular breed among dog owners, Shih Tzus are normally regarded as a loving and friendly breed. However, like any breed, there are certain behavior problems that sound tough to cope up with in the beginning. To be aware of such problems and come up with the right approach that will work for you in achieving the most happy and harmonious relationship with your Shih Tzu, read on. Here's an in-depth look at some common behavior problems in Shih Tzus and tips on how to handle them.

1. Separation Anxiety

Problem: The dogs are notedly attached to the breeders and own them, hence the reason owners leaving them exposes them to separation anxiety. Such could amount to destructive behaviors - dogs chewing and digging while looking for their owners, excessive barking, and even escaping the house. Separation anxiety is stress for both the dog and the owner.

Solution: So, to help your Shih Tzu get along with being alone, try stretching the period he or she can be alone from the very beginning, a little. Serve them some fun toys or puzzles to spend their lonely time with. Keep a regular schedule, and whenever you leave or return to the house, don't make it a big deal. In more extreme cases, involve a vet or dog behaviorist to develop a plan specifically for your dog.

 

2. Excessive Barking

Problem: Well, Shih Tzus are a yappy breed and sometimes bark at strangers, other animals, or even the least sound that appears insignificant. This characteristic, which may seem harmless, will turn out to be quite a nuisance and subject you to many unsavory letters from neighbors in case you live in an apartment.

Solution: Teaching your Shih Tzu to obey commands like "quiet" or "enough" can be quite useful to manage their barking. Positive reinforcement techniques work very well, where you need to reward your dog with stopping them from endless barking with a single command. You can also identify what exactly irritates them and slowly let them get accustomed to that. So, consistency and patience are the keys to curtailing over-barking.

 3. Housebreaking Difficulties

Problem: Shih Tzus can be stubborn and, at times, quite difficult to house-train because of their small size. Therefore, they have the ability to mess up all the frequent routines. This causes the dog many times to do its thing in the house, even for owners who have been with dogs for so many years.

The key to housebreaking a Shih Tzu is patience and consistency. Teach him to take regular breaks, especially after meals, plays, and naps. Crate training often can be helpful since most dogs do not like to dirty their sleeping place. Positive reinforcement should be given immediately after your Shih Tzu has eliminated in the correct spot, with lots of praise and treats. Do not punish the dog, as this will only create fear and confusion in the dog's mind, making the problem even worse.

 4. Stubbornness

Issue: Shih Tzus are never less notorious for being independent, and at times, they tend to be very stubborn. Sometimes, this can get very hard for they may decline from following the instructions and do everything their way. It could be an instance of refusing to show, taking a walk correctly on a leash, or even participating in training activities.

Solution: The innate stubbornness can be dealt with through positive reinforcement. By doing so, make training pleasurable for your Shih Tzu. Effective training sessions do not run long and dragged out but are short and frequent. Be firm and consistent in your commands to your dog. Simultaneously, be patient and gentle. Shih Tzus respond well to rewards and praises. Do so liberally if they obey what was commanded. Train him on how to behave correctly as early as possible in his life; this way, consistent training can prevent stubborn behavior as your Shih Tzu matures.

5. Aggression Toward Other Dogs or Animals

Issue: Shih Tzus are generally the most friendly and charming of the lot, yet they can show aggression toward other dogs or animals, and this can be special if they feel threatened or are not properly socialized. This can result in growling, snapping, or biting, and this could be a problem if the Shih Tzu is in a multiple-pet household or in a public place.

Solution to aggression: Early socialization plays an important part in the life of a Shih Tzu. Gradually introduce him to other dogs and animals in controlled environments. If the problem persists and becomes worse, then there may need to be involvement from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to truly correct the issue by finding out why your dog is being aggressive and how to teach your dog appropriate ways to act.

 

6. Food Guarding and Possessiveness

Problem: The problem occurs at times when Shih Tzus become so possessive about their food, toys, or even owners, the behaviour making them growl, snap, or even show signs of aggression when they feel their possession is to be taken away.

Solution: To address possessiveness, teach your Shih Tzu the “leave it” or “give” command. Gradually practice taking and giving back items of lower value before moving on to higher-value items like their food or favorite toys. Reinforce positive behavior with treats and praise. Never try to forcibly take something away from a possessive dog, as this can escalate the behavior. Consistent training and establishing boundaries are key to preventing possessiveness.

Fearfulness/Timidity

Problem: Some Shih Tzus are prone to fearfulness or timidity, most especially in new environments or on first exposure to new people. Most times, it can manifest in severe shaking, cowering, and sometimes hiding, which becomes a worrying source to the owner.

Solution: Socialization and positive exposure to new experiences are a must in order to build the confidence level of the Shih Tzu. Gradually introduce them to new people, places, and situations, but make sure each experience must be a positive one, without springing any threats on them. Rewarded, calm behavior with treats and praise helps your Shih Tzu make a positive association with new experiences. If fearfulness continues to be prolonged, then visit the dog behaviorist to design a desensitization plan.

As much as Shih Tzus are loving, loyal companions, every breed has its challenges in behavior. Being aware of these potential problems and handling them correctly—with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement—should help you build a solid, trusting relationship with your Shih Tzu. Most behavior problems can be managed well or even completely resolved with the right approach, enabling you and your Shih Tzu to live together happily, harmoniously, and without end.