The Importance Of Shih Tzu Dog Training

Many people believe that any sort of training will interfere with the wonderful relationship they share with their Shih Tzu. Even though he/she barks annoyingly when they go on walks, and they do have to crate him whenever they have guests because he snarls and growls at their friends four year old, but that's all ok, because that's what Shih Tzus do right?

Ummm....no, not really. Sorry to burst your bubble but just because they're not human dogs should still be expected to behave. Sure his antics may seem adorable. They might think it's cute when he jumps up on neighbors and scratches up doors, but their Shih Tzu's victims wouldn't agree.

Maybe they think they don't want to impose their will on their Shih Tzu to make him behave, and that it's all right. But, being the owner of a Shih Tzu means you have a responsibility to your dog and to the people around you.

Now, this doesn't mean you need to be a tyrant whipping your Shih Tzu into compliance.

Where many Shih Tzu owners go wrong is in their understanding of Shih Tzu training. They need to realize that training their Shih Tzu is not about beating him into submission. It is, in fact, is a way of creating a bond and improving the relationship they share with their pet; and of course a means of making it more sociable.

Why is that important?. Well, here is the thing. Most dog owners spend the larger part of our waking hours away from home; at work, running errands, and taking care of business. The little time we get to spend with our family and pets we try to make as pleasant and positive as possible. We go for a walk in the evening after work, or to visit with family and friends. If our Shih Tzus are not properly socialized then we have to leave them home alone, and your precious pet is not a part of your life at all.

Now, Shih Tzus are just like human beings. They get lonely too; lonely depressed and terribly sad. All alone in a dark house with no one to pat his tired little head, or give him a belly-rub

So, ultimately, thanks to their aversion towards training these people deny their Shih Tzu the attention and activities he needs and enjoys.

Obedience training is a means of teaching your Shih Tzu to cope better with it's immediate environment. Proper training and socialization allows Shih Tzu an easier more enjoyable life and makes them a pleasure to have around. Training your Shih Tzu will give you the opportunity to spend more time with your beloved pet, no matter where you go, what you do or who you are with.

So give your Shih Tzu a nice pat and take him out for training. Teaching your Shih Tzu a few simple words like 'heel', 'down', 'stay', 'come' and 'sit', will enhance your relationship with your favorite companion forever.

Good luck and good training.

Want to learn more about Shih Tzu training?
See Your Shih Tzu And You" for a comprehensive guide on raising, training and caring for your Shih Tzu.
www.ShihTzuFoundation.com