How to Potty Train a Shih Tzu Puppy
Potty training a Shih Tzu puppy requires patience and consistency—this breed is notoriously stubborn and has a reputation for housetraining difficulty. However, their affectionate and playful nature makes them highly responsive to positive reinforcement and bonding. Unlike high-energy breeds, Shih Tzus have low exercise needs (around 30 minutes daily), which actually works in your favor during housetraining, as they require fewer potty breaks throughout the day. Their charming temperament means they genuinely want to please you once they understand expectations. This guide provides a practical routine designed specifically for Shih Tzu puppies, emphasizing patience, positive rewards, and the consistency needed to overcome this breed's stubborn streak and common housetraining challenges.
Step-by-step
- 1
Establish a Predictable Potty Schedule
Take your Shih Tzu puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals (15-30 minutes), after naps, before bedtime, and 2-3 times during the day. Since Shih Tzus have low energy, they won't need as many breaks as other breeds, but consistency is critical to overcome their stubbornness. Post a schedule on your refrigerator and stick to it religiously.
- 2
Designate a Specific Potty Spot
Choose one outdoor area where your puppy will eliminate and take them there for every potty break. Use a consistent command like 'go potty' while they're sniffing. Once they eliminate in the correct spot, immediately offer enthusiastic praise and a high-value treat, as Shih Tzus thrive on affection-based rewards and positive reinforcement.
- 3
Supervise Constantly and Prevent Accidents
Keep your puppy in sight at all times indoors. If you can't watch them, confine them to a small, puppy-proofed area or crate—dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping space. This prevents the stubborn habit-forming of indoor accidents, which Shih Tzus are prone to developing if allowed to repeat the behavior.
- 4
Use Crate Training as a Tool
Introduce a properly-sized crate (large enough to stand and turn around) as a safe den, not a punishment. Take your puppy directly from the crate to the potty spot on schedule. The crate helps manage accidents overnight and when you're absent, reducing opportunities for your Shih Tzu to practice bad habits due to their housetraining difficulty.
- 5
Reward Success Immediately and Enthusiastically
The moment your puppy finishes eliminating outside, shower them with praise, affection, and treats. Shih Tzus are highly motivated by your approval and bonding time. Immediately return indoors to reinforce that the outdoor spot is for potty and that good behavior results in your positive attention.
- 6
Never Punish Accidents—Redirect Instead
If you catch your puppy mid-accident, calmly interrupt them and immediately take them outside to finish. If you discover an accident after the fact, simply clean it thoroughly with enzymatic cleaner and move on—punishment damages trust and won't resolve the behavior in this sensitive breed. Shih Tzus are prone to separation anxiety, and harsh corrections can worsen housetraining issues.
Pro tips
- Use high-value rewards that match your Shih Tzu's affectionate nature—enthusiastic praise and bonding time (playtime, cuddles) often work better than treats alone. Your approval is their greatest motivator.
- Schedule outdoor potty breaks before and after their short daily exercise routine (30 minutes). This breeds' low energy means predictable bathroom timing, making housetraining more manageable if you stick to the routine.
- Keep a potty log for the first month to identify your individual puppy's patterns and timing. Shih Tzus have unique rhythms, and tracking will help you anticipate accidents and adjust your schedule for faster success.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it typically take to potty train a Shih Tzu puppy?+
Shih Tzus often take 4-6 months or longer due to their stubborn nature and inherent housetraining difficulty. Some may not be fully reliable until 8-12 months. Consistency, patience, and understanding that this breed is slower to housetrain than many others is essential. Avoid frustration—they're not being difficult intentionally; they simply need more repetition and reinforcement.
What should I do if my Shih Tzu has frequent accidents indoors?+
Increase outdoor potty breaks and extend supervision time. Accidents often indicate either insufficient opportunities to go out or that your puppy hasn't fully grasped the routine yet. Ensure you're using high-value rewards (treats, toys, or extra affection—Shih Tzus love attention) immediately after outdoor elimination. If accidents persist past 5 months, consult your veterinarian to rule out urinary issues.
Can I use puppy pads for housetraining a Shih Tzu?+
Puppy pads can be counterproductive for this breed, as they may confuse your Shih Tzu about where elimination is acceptable indoors. Since they're already prone to housetraining difficulty, pads can actually extend the process. It's better to focus on outdoor-only elimination from the start using crate training and strict supervision to prevent indoor accidents.
How do I handle my Shih Tzu's separation anxiety during housetraining?+
Separation anxiety can worsen accidents. Practice short absences gradually, always returning before your puppy becomes distressed. Leave calming aids like puzzle toys or background music. Crate training helps them feel secure. Keep departures and arrivals low-key to reduce anxiety. If your Shih Tzu exhibits severe separation anxiety, consult a trainer or veterinary behaviorist for additional support.
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