Bringing a Shih Tzu puppy into your home is an exciting time. These adorable little companions are known for their affectionate personalities and charming looks. However, like all puppies, they require training, and potty training is often a top priority for new owners. While some prefer outdoor potty training, teaching your Shih Tzu to use a pee pad can be a convenient and effective solution, especially for apartment dwellers, those with limited outdoor access, or during inclement weather. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing you with the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully train your Shih Tzu to pee and poop on a pad.
Understanding the Shih Tzu Breed and Potty Training Challenges
Before diving into the training process, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics of the Shih Tzu breed. Shih Tzus are known for being intelligent but can also be independent and stubborn. This means that consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are crucial for successful potty training. They also have small bladders, which means they need to relieve themselves frequently, especially as puppies.
Common potty training challenges with Shih Tzus include:
- Small bladder capacity requiring frequent potty breaks.
- Tendency to be easily distracted.
- Independent nature making consistent training essential.
- Possible sensitivity to harsh corrections.
Understanding these challenges will allow you to tailor your training approach to your Shih Tzu’s specific needs.
Preparing for Pee Pad Training: Setting Up for Success
The key to successful pee pad training lies in preparation. Creating a designated potty area, gathering necessary supplies, and establishing a routine are crucial first steps.
Choosing the Right Pee Pads and Location
Selecting the right pee pads is more important than you might think. Opt for pads that are absorbent, leak-proof, and ideally, have an attractant scent to encourage your Shih Tzu to use them. Different sizes are available, so choose one that’s appropriate for your dog’s size and the amount of space you have available.
The location of the pee pad is also critical. Choose a spot that is easily accessible to your Shih Tzu, away from their food and water bowls, and preferably in a quiet, low-traffic area. Common locations include a corner of a room, a bathroom, or a utility room. The location should be consistent throughout the training process.
Essential Supplies for Pee Pad Training
Besides pee pads, you’ll need a few other supplies to make the training process easier and more effective.
- Enzyme cleaner: Accidents will happen, and an enzyme cleaner is essential for eliminating the odor of urine and feces, which can prevent your Shih Tzu from repeatedly soiling the same spot.
- Treats: Small, high-value treats are crucial for positive reinforcement. Choose treats that your Shih Tzu loves and that are easy to break into small pieces.
- Crate (optional): If you plan on crate training, the crate can be a valuable tool for potty training as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.
- Leash: A leash can be helpful for guiding your Shih Tzu to the pee pad.
Establishing a Routine: Consistency is Key
Shih Tzus thrive on routine, so establishing a consistent feeding and potty break schedule is crucial for success. Feed your Shih Tzu at the same times each day and take them to the pee pad immediately after waking up, after meals, after playtime, and before bedtime. This will help regulate their bowel movements and bladder and make it easier to predict when they need to go.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Pee Pad Training
Now that you’ve prepared the environment and gathered your supplies, it’s time to start the training process. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process from introducing your Shih Tzu to the pee pad to reinforcing successful potty breaks.
Introducing Your Shih Tzu to the Pee Pad
The first step is to introduce your Shih Tzu to the pee pad and help them associate it with potty time.
- Place your Shih Tzu on the pee pad: Gently place your Shih Tzu on the pee pad and allow them to sniff and explore it.
- Use a verbal cue: As your Shih Tzu is on the pee pad, use a consistent verbal cue, such as “Go potty” or “Do your business.”
- Reward exploration: If your Shih Tzu shows interest in the pee pad, reward them with a small treat and praise.
This initial introduction will help your Shih Tzu become familiar with the pee pad and associate it with positive experiences.
Recognizing the Signs and Guiding to the Pad
Learning to recognize the signs that your Shih Tzu needs to go potty is essential for preventing accidents and guiding them to the pee pad. Common signs include circling, sniffing, squatting, and whining.
- Observe your Shih Tzu closely: Pay attention to your Shih Tzu’s behavior and learn to recognize their individual signs that they need to go potty.
- Interrupt and redirect: If you see your Shih Tzu exhibiting these signs, immediately interrupt them and gently guide them to the pee pad.
- Use the verbal cue: As you guide them to the pee pad, use your chosen verbal cue.
Rewarding Success: Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is the most effective way to train a Shih Tzu. When your Shih Tzu successfully uses the pee pad, immediately reward them with praise, a small treat, and affection.
- Immediate reward: The reward should be given immediately after they finish going potty on the pee pad.
- Enthusiastic praise: Use an enthusiastic tone of voice and tell them “Good potty!” or “Good job!”.
- Consistency is key: Be consistent with your rewards to reinforce the desired behavior.
Positive reinforcement will help your Shih Tzu associate using the pee pad with positive experiences and encourage them to repeat the behavior.
Dealing with Accidents: Patience and Consistency
Accidents are inevitable during the potty training process. It’s important to remember to remain patient and avoid punishing your Shih Tzu, as this can create fear and anxiety and make training more difficult.
- Clean up immediately: Clean up accidents immediately with an enzyme cleaner to eliminate the odor.
- Avoid punishment: Never scold or punish your Shih Tzu for having an accident.
- Reflect on the cause: Try to determine why the accident happened. Were you not paying close enough attention to their cues? Was the pee pad too far away? Adjust your strategy accordingly.
Gradually Increasing the Time Between Potty Breaks
As your Shih Tzu becomes more reliable with using the pee pad, you can gradually increase the time between potty breaks. This will help them develop better bladder control.
- Start with small increments: Increase the time between potty breaks by 15-30 minutes each day.
- Monitor your Shih Tzu: Pay close attention to your Shih Tzu for signs that they need to go potty.
- Adjust as needed: If your Shih Tzu starts having more accidents, decrease the time between potty breaks and try again later.
Troubleshooting Common Pee Pad Training Issues
Even with the best planning and execution, you may encounter challenges during pee pad training. Here are some common issues and how to address them.
My Shih Tzu Uses the Pee Pad Sometimes, But Not Always
This is a common issue and usually indicates that your Shih Tzu isn’t fully associating the pee pad with potty time.
- Review your routine: Ensure that you’re taking your Shih Tzu to the pee pad frequently enough and at consistent times.
- Increase supervision: Supervise your Shih Tzu more closely to catch them exhibiting signs that they need to go potty.
- Re-introduce the pee pad: Go back to the initial steps of introducing your Shih Tzu to the pee pad and reinforcing successful potty breaks.
My Shih Tzu Chews or Tears Up the Pee Pad
Some Shih Tzus may be tempted to chew or tear up the pee pad, especially when they’re bored or anxious.
- Provide plenty of toys: Ensure that your Shih Tzu has plenty of appropriate chew toys to keep them entertained.
- Limit access to the pee pad: If possible, limit your Shih Tzu’s access to the pee pad when you’re not supervising them.
- Use a pee pad holder: A pee pad holder can help prevent your Shih Tzu from tearing up the pad.
- Consider a different type of pad: Try a different type of pee pad. Some brands offer more durable options designed to resist tearing.
My Shih Tzu Refuses to Use the Pee Pad
If your Shih Tzu consistently refuses to use the pee pad, there may be an underlying reason.
- Rule out medical issues: Consult with your veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing the problem.
- Check the location: Make sure the pee pad is in a quiet, accessible location away from their food and water.
- Try a different type of pee pad: Experiment with different types of pee pads to see if your Shih Tzu prefers a specific brand or texture.
- Consider using an attractant spray: Attractant sprays can help lure your Shih Tzu to the pee pad.
Transitioning to Outdoor Potty Training (Optional)
While this guide focuses on pee pad training, you may eventually want to transition your Shih Tzu to outdoor potty training. This is a gradual process that requires patience and consistency.
- Start by taking your Shih Tzu outside after they use the pee pad: This will help them associate going potty with being outdoors.
- Gradually move the pee pad closer to the door: This will help them understand that the door leads to the potty area.
- Eventually, move the pee pad outside: Place the pee pad in the designated outdoor potty area.
- Phase out the pee pad: Once your Shih Tzu is consistently using the pee pad outside, you can gradually phase it out.
Long-Term Maintenance and Consistency
Once your Shih Tzu is reliably using the pee pad, it’s important to maintain consistency to prevent relapses.
- Continue with the established routine: Stick to the feeding and potty break schedule.
- Monitor for changes in behavior: Pay attention to your Shih Tzu for any signs that they may be experiencing a setback.
- Address any issues promptly: If you notice any problems, address them immediately to prevent them from escalating.
Potty training your Shih Tzu to use a pee pad takes time, patience, and consistency. By following the steps outlined in this guide and addressing any challenges that arise, you can successfully train your Shih Tzu to use a pee pad and enjoy a cleaner, more convenient living environment. Remember to celebrate your Shih Tzu’s successes and enjoy the bond you build throughout the training process. The key is unwavering positive reinforcement and a deep understanding of your furry friend’s needs and behaviors.
Why should I consider using pee pads for potty training my Shih Tzu?
Pee pads can be a valuable tool for potty training a Shih Tzu, especially if you live in an apartment, have limited access to the outdoors, or work long hours. Shih Tzus, being small dogs with smaller bladders, often need to relieve themselves more frequently. Pee pads provide a designated indoor spot for them to go, reducing accidents and making it easier to manage their potty breaks. This is particularly helpful during inclement weather when taking them outside might be less desirable for both you and your furry friend.
Moreover, pee pads offer a consistent and reliable surface for your Shih Tzu to associate with elimination. This consistency can significantly speed up the potty-training process, creating a structured routine that the dog can easily understand. By strategically placing pee pads in key areas and rewarding your Shih Tzu for using them correctly, you can proactively minimize accidents and encourage desired potty habits within your home environment.
Where is the best location to place the pee pad for my Shih Tzu?
The ideal location for your Shih Tzu’s pee pad should be a quiet, easily accessible area away from their food and water bowls and sleeping space. Consider areas where your dog frequently eliminates, as this can help them associate the pad with potty time. High-traffic areas, while convenient for you, might be distracting for your Shih Tzu and make them hesitant to use the pad. Think about a corner of a room, a designated area in the bathroom, or even a crate, if your dog is crate-trained.
Over time, you can gradually move the pee pad closer to the door you use for outdoor potty breaks if your ultimate goal is to transition to outdoor elimination. This gradual shift helps the dog understand the connection between the pee pad and the final destination for potty breaks. Observe your Shih Tzu’s behavior and adjust the location based on their preferences and success rate.
How often should I change the pee pad?
The frequency of changing the pee pad depends on how often your Shih Tzu uses it. Generally, you should change the pee pad at least once a day, even if it’s not heavily soiled, to maintain hygiene and prevent unpleasant odors. A heavily soiled pee pad should be changed immediately. Leaving a soiled pee pad for too long can discourage your dog from using it, as they prefer a clean surface.
In addition to regular changes, consider using pee pads with odor-control technology to further minimize unpleasant smells. Thoroughly clean the area underneath the pee pad regularly with an enzymatic cleaner designed to eliminate pet odors. This will prevent your Shih Tzu from being attracted to the residual scent and potentially eliminating outside the designated area.
What commands should I use when potty training my Shih Tzu on pee pads?
Choose a simple, consistent command that you’ll use every time you want your Shih Tzu to eliminate on the pee pad. Phrases like “Go potty,” “Pee pee,” or “Do your business” are commonly used. The key is to be consistent so your dog learns to associate the command with the act of elimination. Avoid using complex or confusing phrases that your Shih Tzu might not understand.
When you take your dog to the pee pad, repeat the command calmly and encouragingly. If your Shih Tzu eliminates on the pad, immediately offer enthusiastic praise and a small treat. This positive reinforcement will strengthen the association between the command, the pee pad, and the reward, making it more likely they will repeat the behavior in the future.
What do I do if my Shih Tzu has an accident outside the pee pad?
If your Shih Tzu has an accident outside the pee pad, it’s important to remain calm and avoid punishment. Getting angry or scolding your dog will only create fear and anxiety, making them less likely to eliminate in front of you, even on the pee pad. Instead, clean up the accident immediately with an enzymatic cleaner designed to eliminate pet odors.
The enzymatic cleaner is crucial because it breaks down the odor molecules that attract your dog back to the same spot for future accidents. Thoroughly clean the area to remove all traces of the scent. Then, redirect your Shih Tzu to the pee pad and encourage them to eliminate there. Remember, accidents are a normal part of the training process, and consistency is key.
How long does it typically take to potty train a Shih Tzu with pee pads?
The duration of pee pad training for a Shih Tzu varies depending on several factors, including the dog’s age, personality, consistency of training, and previous training experience. Some Shih Tzus may learn to consistently use the pee pad within a few weeks, while others may take several months. Patience and consistency are crucial for success.
Establish a consistent routine, take your dog to the pee pad regularly, especially after waking up, after meals, and before bedtime, and reward them immediately for successful eliminations. Remember to address any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to accidents, such as urinary tract infections, by consulting with your veterinarian. With consistent effort and positive reinforcement, you can successfully potty train your Shih Tzu to use pee pads.
How do I eventually transition my Shih Tzu from pee pads to outdoor potty breaks?
Transitioning your Shih Tzu from pee pads to outdoor potty breaks requires a gradual and patient approach. Start by moving the pee pad closer to the door you typically use for outdoor access. This helps your dog associate the pad with the outside world. Gradually move the pad closer to the door, inch by inch, over a period of days or weeks.
Once the pee pad is right by the door, begin taking your Shih Tzu outside to the designated potty spot immediately after they use the pee pad. Use the same command you used with the pee pad (“Go potty,” for example), and offer praise and a treat when they eliminate outside. Eventually, you can start taking them outside more frequently, even before they use the pee pad, and gradually phase out the pee pad altogether. Remember to continue rewarding successful outdoor eliminations to reinforce the desired behavior.