While a training collar is an effective tool, like any tool it must be used properly in order to be effective for you and safe for the shih tzu. Among the most important considerations when using a training collar are:
How the collar fits the shih tzu. It is essential that the training collar be properly fitted to the shih tzu. A properly fitted training collar is easier to use and safer for the shih tzu.
Putting the training collar on properly. There is a right way and a wrong way to fit a training collar, and putting it on wrong will make it both ineffective and potentially dangerous.
Using the collar properly. A training collar should be used as a sharp reminder to the shih tzu, not as punishment. It is important that constant pressure be avoided when using a training collar.
The weight of the chain and the size of the links on the training collar. It is important that the weight of the chain be appropriate to the size and weight of the shih tzu.
The placement of the collar on the shih tzu. It is important to properly place the collar on the shih tzu.
The importance of a properly fitted training collar Determining if the training collar is the right size is relatively easy. The ideal size training collar should fit snugly, yet comfortably over the shih tzu's head. It is important that the training collar not fit too tightly, but it should not be too loose either. A training collar that is too tight will be too hard to put on and off. On the other hand, a training collar that is too loose can accidentally fall off of the shih tzu's head when it lowers its head.
It is also important to know that a training collar that is too long for the shih tzu requires a great deal of finesse to use properly. A collar that is too long can still be used, but it will require more skill on the part of the handler.
Properly sizing and measure the shih tzu for a training collar It is best to measure the shih tzu's neck with a tape measure, then add 2 to 3 inches to that measurement. So if your shih tzu has a neck 12? in diameter, you would want to buy a training collar that is 14? in length. Chain slip collars are generally sized in two inch increments.
Fitting the collar properly When fitting a training collar, the part of the chain which is connected to the leash should be on the top of the shih tzu's neck. With this type of arrangement, the collar releases the instant the leash is loosened. Training collars work by making the collar tight and loose in a fast manner. Tightening the collar is the first part of the correction, and making it loose is the second part of the correction.
If the part of the training collar that is attached to the leash is not on the top of the shih tzu's neck, the collar can still be made tight, but it will not release back to a loose state easily. This constant pressure on the shih tzu's neck initiates a counter response on the part of the animal, and the shih tzu will quickly learn to pull and strain against the leash.
Finally, it is important to purchase a training collar that is well made and strong. Buying a high quality training collar, slip collar or choke collar is vital to the safety of yourself and your shih tzu.
If the worst happens, and your shih tzu's training collar does break, it is important not to panic. Most shih tzu will be unaware that they have broken the collar, at least for a few minutes. In most cases, if you act as if the leash is still connected, you can probably get control of your shih tzu back quickly.
When securing a loose shih tzu, the best strategy is to make a quick slip lead by running the snap on the leash through its handle and then slipping it over the shih tzu's head. It may not be the best arrangement, but it will certainly do in a pinch.
Making obedience training fun, and even making it a bit of a game, can be very important to keeping both the shih tzu and the handler motivated and willing to learn. Incorporating a period of playtime at the beginning and end of every training session will make sure that every session begins and ends on a good note.
The most basic of all obedience commands is heeling, or walking with the handler on a loose lead. This is usually the first obedience behavior that is taught, and it is an easy one to teach through reward training. Begin by fitting the shih tzu with a quality, properly fitted training lead and training collar. If you are unsure of how to fit the training collar, be sure to ask a dog trainer, or the manager at the store where the equipment is purchased.
Start walking with the shih tzu, always being cognizant of the shih tzu's position relative to your own. If the shih tzu begins to forge ahead, gently pull on the leash. This will engage the training collar and give the shih tzu a gentle reminder to slow down. It may be necessary to apply greater pressure at first until the shih tzu learns to accept the correction.
If the dog begins to fall behind, slow down and gently urge the shih tzu forward. The use of a lure, or a favorite toy, can be very useful when teaching the shih tzu to walk at your side. By keeping the lure at the desired position for the shih tzu, he or she should quickly learn the desired location.
Always be sure to provide plenty of praise, treats, toys and other rewards when the shih tzu does what is expected of him. Shih Tzu learn best by positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement means that when the animal does what the handler wants, it receives a reward, which can be anything from a pat on the head to a treat to a favorite toy. At the beginning of training, even the slightest attempts to please the owner should be rewarded.
Training by using reprimands and punishment is not nearly as effective as training by using rewards. Dogs can become discouraged and confused by excessive amounts of punishment and reprimands. Reprimands may be required from time to time, to correct potentially dangerous behaviors like chasing or biting, for instance, but reprimands should be short and directly attributed to the problem behavior at hand. After the immediate danger has passed, the training should continue with reward based training and positive reinforcement.
For instance, if you come home and your shih tzu is chewing the furniture or other inappropriate item, immediately give the shih tzu a sharp ?No? or ?Off? and take the item away. Then immediately give the shih tzu one of his toys or other items that he is allowed to chew on, and praise the shih tzu enthusiastically when he takes the toy and begins to chew it. This will teach the shih tzu to associate chewing some items, like his toys, with praise, and chewing inappropriate items with reprimand.
It is very important for the shih tzu to make these associations, since it is very hard to change negative associations once they have formed. It is always much easier to train proper obedience behaviors the first time than it is to go back and retrain a problem shih tzu later on. That does not of course mean that retraining is impossible, it simply means that it is more difficult.
Teaching a shih tzu puppy, or an older shih tzu, to associate the behaviors you value, such as coming when called, sitting on command, walking at your side, chewing only on toys, etc. with happy, fun times is the basis of all successful shih tzu training.
Connie Limon has sinced written about articles on various topics from Careers and Job Hunting, Dogs and Colon Cleanse. Connie Limon is a professional shih tzu breeder in Indiana. She publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professional newsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you and your pets. Discounts on shih tzu puppies are offered to subscribers. Sign u. Connie Limon's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.