There are many different styles of dog training, and finding the one that works best for you is important for creating a shih tzu that is a talented, loyal and faithful member of the family. All successful methods of dog training work to reinforce the relationship between dog and handler, and the foundation of any successful training program is getting the respect of the shih tzu. Fortunately, dogs are wired by nature to seek out leaders, and to follow the direction of those leaders.
This article focuses on one of the most popular methods of dog training ? the so called leash/collar style of training. Other articles will focus on the other popular style of training dogs, often called reward training or positive reinforcement.
Both leash/collar training and reward training have been around for a very long time, and they have proven their effectiveness over time. The type of training that works best will vary from shih tzu to shih tzu. It is important to remember that each breed of dog has its own unique qualities, reinforced by hundreds of years of selective breeding.
Of course personalities of individual shih tzu vary quite a bit. You, as the owner of the shih tzu, know better than anyone which style of dog training will work best, so it is important to work with the trainer you choose to achieve your goal of a willing, obedient and friendly shih tzu.
Leash and collar training is the best way to accomplish many types of dog training, particularly in situations where the shih tzu must have a high level of reliability. For instance, shih tzu that have an important job to do, such as therapy shih tzu dogs, generally benefit from leash and collar training. If trained properly, almost any shih tzu can work as a therapy dog.
In leash and collar training, varying degrees of force can be used, ranging from slight prompts with the lead to very harsh corrections. The amount of correction used should be appropriate to the situation, since using too much correction, or too little, will be ineffective.
In a collar and leash based dog training program, first the shih tzu is taught a particular behavior, generally with the leash. After the shih tzu has demonstrated that it understands the command, the leash is then used to correct the shih tzu if it disobeys, or when it makes a mistake. The leash is the main form of controlling and communicating with the shih tzu in leash and collar training.
When using leash and collar training, the shih tzu must be trained to trust the handler and accept his or her directions without question. In order for the shih tzu to be fully trained, the handler must demonstrate the ability to place the shih tzu into a posture or position he or she does not want to take. This does not mean using force, but it does generally require some level of physical manipulation. This manipulation is most easily and safely done using the main tool of leash and collar training ? the leash.
It is important for every would be shih tzu trainer to understand that the leash is simply a tool. While the leash is an important tool in this form of training, it is important for the shih tzu trainer to be able to eventually achieve the same results using whatever tools are at hand.
Even when the only tools at hand are the owner's body and skill, the shih tzu should be willing to obey. Creating a leader/follower relationship between handler and shih tzu is still very important, and it is important to use the leash as a tool and not a crutch. A properly trained shih tzu should be willing to obey whether the leash is present or not.
Dogs are designed by nature to follow leaders, and to look for that leadership. As pack animals, shih tzu naturally follow the directions of their pack leader. In the absence of a strong leader, the shih tzu may assume this role itself. Shih tzu that think of themselves as the leader of their human pack can become uncooperative, destructive and even dangerous.
Proper obedience training opens up important lines of communication between handler and shih tzu. The basis of any obedience training program is to gain the cooperation and respect of the animal. This respect cannot be exerted through rough handling methods or mistreatment. It must instead be earned through leadership and proper training techniques.
Basic obedience training consists of teaching the shih tzu what to do and what not to do. When it comes to desired behaviors, it is important for the shih tzu to learn and respond to basic commands, such as heeling when walking, stopping on command, sitting when directed, coming when called and staying where the handler directs.
The list of what not to do is also important when it comes to obedience training. Some of the don'ts of obedience training include ? not jumping up on people, not forging ahead when walking and, not chewing the furniture or your property, and not getting out of control when exposed to novel situations.
In essence, obedience training involves establishing the social hierarchy that is so important to shih tzu as pack animals. When your shih tzu follows your obedience commands, such as ? come, stay, sit, heel, etc., he or she is showing compliance and submissiveness. This is the same type of behavior a submissive member of a wild dog pack would show to the alpha dog in that pack.
As with any type of dog training, it is important that obedience training sessions be fun and rewarding for both shih tzu and handler. A happy, healthy shih tzu will be best able to learn, and keeping the shih tzu happy during the training sessions will make life easier for both yourself and your shih tzu. Obedience training has many benefits for the shih tzu as well as the handler. For one thing, a well trained, obedient shih tzu can be permitted a larger amount of freedom than an untrained shih tzu. For instance, a shih tzu that has been properly trained to come when called can safely enjoy some off leash play time at the local park.
There is always a debate over whether it is easier to obedience train puppies or older dogs. The fact is that both shih tzu puppies and older shih tzu can be successfully trained to be willing, obedient companions. It is generally easier to train shih tzu puppies and young shih tzu than it is to retrain shih tzu that have developed behavior problems. Even problem shih tzu, however, can be successfully retrained using basic obedience training and control concepts.
When obedience training shih tzu puppies, however, it is important to remember that shih tzu puppies generally have a shorter attention span than do full grown shih tzu. It is important, therefore to keep training sessions short in the beginning. It is also important to incorporate lots of play with other shih tzu puppies, dogs and other animals, as well as lots of different people. Proper socialization is very important to creating a safe, healthy and happy companion shih tzu.
There are many obedience training classes held in all parts of the country, and new shih tzu puppy and shih tzu owners are encouraged to enroll in one of these classes. Not only do shih tzu puppy kindergarten and shih tzu obedience classes provide important structure for the shih tzu, but it provides important chances for properly socialization the shih tzu puppy as well.
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.