Are Shih Tzus hard to potty train?

They can take longer than some breeds, partly due to their small bladder size, which is common among small breeds generally rather than unique to Shih Tzus. Consistency in timing and rewarding success outdoors makes the biggest difference.

Do Shih Tzus respond well to treat-based training?

Yes, food is usually the most reliable motivator for this breed, given their independent streak and lack of a strong working drive. Small, high-value treats broken into pieces work well for short, frequent sessions.

Should I use a harness instead of a collar for a Shih Tzu?

A well-fitted harness is generally a better choice, since the breed's shorter face and delicate neck mean a collar can put uncomfortable pressure on the throat if your dog pulls. This applies particularly during lead training.

Why does my Shih Tzu ignore commands sometimes?

It is often the breed's independent, companion-bred temperament rather than a lack of understanding. Short, positive, food-motivated sessions typically work better than repetition or firmer handling for getting their attention.

Are Shih Tzus easy to train?

Shih Tzus are trainable, but bred for centuries as companion dogs rather than working ones, they can be more independently minded than a typical working breed and less naturally driven to please for its own sake. Short, positive, food-motivated sessions generally get further with this breed than a firm-handed or repetitive approach.

Why Shih Tzus train differently from working breeds

This is a breed developed purely as a companion, without the working history that gives breeds like Border Collies or Labradors such a strong drive to work alongside a handler. That does not mean a Shih Tzu cannot learn — it means the motivation has to come from somewhere else, most reliably food and genuine enjoyment of the interaction.

Many Shih Tzus are also described as having a stubborn or independent streak, which is really just a strong sense of their own preferences. Training that feels like a game, rather than a drill, tends to hold their attention far better.

What actually works

Keep sessions short — a few minutes at a time, several times a day, works better than one long session that loses a small dog's interest halfway through. High-value food rewards, broken into small pieces, are usually the strongest motivator for this breed.

House-training in particular can take longer with small breeds generally, Shih Tzus included, partly because a small bladder means more frequent opportunities to get it right or wrong. Consistency in timing and genuinely rewarding success outdoors matters more than any specific method.

Socialisation early in life pays off well for a companion breed that will likely spend a lot of time around people and other pets. Positive experiences with a range of people, dogs and everyday situations while young help prevent nervousness later on, and a well-socialised adult Shih Tzu is generally a far more relaxed, easy-going companion in busy or unfamiliar situations.

Handling and equipment worth knowing about

Shih Tzus have a relatively short, flat-ish face and a delicate neck and airway compared with many breeds, so a well-fitted harness rather than a collar for lead training reduces pressure on the throat if your dog pulls — a genuinely useful welfare point for training walks specifically, not just a preference.

Avoid harsh corrections or repeated forceful handling with a breed this size and temperament — it tends to shut a Shih Tzu down rather than teach the desired behaviour, and damages the trust that makes future training sessions work. A calm, patient, reward-led approach almost always gets further with this breed over time, even when progress on a specific behaviour feels slow at first.

Kit for this breed

Things we stock that owners commonly reach for here. Nothing on this page depends on you buying one.

Padded No-Pull Dog Harness Vest

A soft padded vest harness that spreads pressure evenly across the chest for comfortable, no-pull control. Adjustable straps, breathable mesh lining and reflective trim make everyday walks safer.

From£35.99

Faux-Leather Dog Harness & Lead Set

A smart faux-leather harness and matching lead set with gold-tone hardware and quick-release buckles. The padded, adjustable harness spreads pressure comfortably for stylish, secure walks. Suits small dogs and cats.

From£13.99

Dog Car Seat Belt Safety Tether

An adjustable nylon car safety tether that clips into your seatbelt buckle and onto your dog's harness, keeping them safely restrained while you drive. Strong metal clasp and durable webbing.

£24.99

Inflatable Herding Ball with Handles for Dogs

A large, tough inflatable herding ball that taps into your dog's natural chase-and-nudge instinct. Reinforced bite-resistant fabric and grab handles make it great for active outdoor play with medium and large breeds.

£29.99

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Common questions

Are Shih Tzus hard to potty train?: They can take longer than some breeds, partly due to their small bladder size, which is common among small breeds generally rather than unique to Shih Tzus. Consistency in timing and rewarding success outdoors makes the biggest difference.
Do Shih Tzus respond well to treat-based training?: Yes, food is usually the most reliable motivator for this breed, given their independent streak and lack of a strong working drive. Small, high-value treats broken into pieces work well for short, frequent sessions.
Should I use a harness instead of a collar for a Shih Tzu?: A well-fitted harness is generally a better choice, since the breed's shorter face and delicate neck mean a collar can put uncomfortable pressure on the throat if your dog pulls. This applies particularly during lead training.
Why does my Shih Tzu ignore commands sometimes?: It is often the breed's independent, companion-bred temperament rather than a lack of understanding. Short, positive, food-motivated sessions typically work better than repetition or firmer handling for getting their attention.

Sources

Written against guidance published by UK veterinary and welfare organisations. Always confirm specifics with your own vet.

PDSA — Pet Health Hub

Written by Matt Garnett, who runs Giddy Pets and is a lifelong pet owner — not a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your animal. How we write these guides.