How to Stop a Shih Tzu From Chewing Everything
Shih Tzus are charming and affectionate companions, but their moderate trainability (3/5) and stubborn streak can make destructive chewing a frustrating challenge. With low energy levels (2/5) and a tendency toward separation anxiety, these toy-sized dogs often redirect boredom and stress through inappropriate chewing. Unlike high-energy breeds, Shih Tzus don't need extensive exercise, but they do need mental stimulation and consistent, patient guidance. This guide focuses on managing destructive chewing through positive reinforcement, appropriate outlets, and environmental management tailored to your Shih Tzu's affectionate nature and need for companionship. Success requires combining structure with the gentle, reward-based approach these intelligent little dogs respond to best.
Step-by-step
- 1
Identify Chewing Triggers and Patterns
Observe when your Shih Tzu chews most—often during separation anxiety episodes, when bored, or when understimulated. Note which items are targets and the time of day. Understanding whether chewing stems from anxiety (common in this breed), boredom, or teething helps you address the root cause rather than just the symptom.
- 2
Provide Appropriate Chewing Outlets
Offer dedicated, safe chew toys like Kong toys, rope toys, and long-lasting chews. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty and engagement. Since Shih Tzus have lower energy levels, focus on interactive or puzzle toys that provide mental stimulation rather than purely physical outlets—these address boredom more effectively.
- 3
Reward Good Chewing Behavior Immediately
When you catch your Shih Tzu chewing an appropriate toy, immediately praise and reward with treats or affection. Use a positive, upbeat tone to reinforce the behavior. This positive-reinforcement approach works well with the breed's affectionate, playful temperament and builds their desire to engage with approved items.
- 4
Manage the Environment and Prevent Access
Remove tempting items from reach—shoes, cables, furniture corners—and use baby gates or closed doors to restrict access to unsupervised areas. Since stubborn Shih Tzus may test boundaries, consistent management prevents opportunities for destructive behavior and reduces relapse.
- 5
Address Separation Anxiety Through Gradual Desensitization
Separation anxiety is common in this breed and often triggers chewing. Practice leaving for short periods, returning calmly, and rewarding calm behavior when you return. Pair departures with a special chew toy or treat available only during alone time, creating positive associations and reducing destructive behavior.
- 6
Maintain a Consistent Daily Routine with Mental Engagement
Establish regular play, training, and feeding times. Spend 20–30 minutes daily on interactive play, training exercises, or puzzle toys to prevent boredom-driven chewing. Shih Tzus thrive on structure and companionship, so consistent routines reduce anxiety and destructive outlets.
Pro tips
- Leverage your Shih Tzu's affectionate nature: spend quality bonding time before and after work to strengthen attachment and reduce separation anxiety-driven chewing. This breed craves companionship, and consistent presence is as important as toy management.
- Use puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys at least 3–4 times weekly—they're ideal for low-energy Shih Tzus and provide the mental stimulation their modest energy levels require to prevent boredom.
- Pair chewing redirects with extra praise and physical affection rather than treats alone; Shih Tzus respond strongly to emotional approval from their owners, making your attention the most powerful reward.
Frequently asked questions
My Shih Tzu chews destructively only when I leave. Is this normal?+
Yes, this is very common in Shih Tzus due to their separation anxiety tendency. Destructive chewing during departure is a stress response, not misbehavior. Address this by gradually desensitizing your dog to alone time, providing a special anxiety-relief toy, and keeping departures low-key to reduce emotional triggers.
How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need to prevent boredom chewing?+
With low energy levels, Shih Tzus need only about 30 minutes of daily activity. Focus on mental stimulation (training, puzzle toys, scent games) rather than intense physical exercise. This breed is more prone to boredom than exhaustion, so interactive play addresses their actual needs better.
My Shih Tzu ignores approved toys and chews furniture instead. What should I do?+
This reflects the breed's stubbornness and possible inadequate toy appeal. Try rotating toys to maintain novelty, selecting puzzle or interactive toys with treats inside, and making approved toys more rewarding than furniture by consistently praising and rewarding their use. Increase direct interaction and play to strengthen engagement.
At what age does Shih Tzu chewing typically stop?+
Shih Tzus reach physical maturity around 12–16 months but may continue problem chewing into adulthood if not redirected, especially if linked to separation anxiety or boredom. Consistent training and management throughout the first 2 years establish good habits, but individual dogs vary.