Master shih tzu potty training with 10 powerful tips using consistency, routines, rewards, and positive reinforcement to help your puppy succeed quickly and confidently.
Introduction
Potty training a Shih Tzu can be one of the biggest challenges new puppy owners face. Shih Tzus are adorable, affectionate, and full of personality — but they are also known for being a bit stubborn, easily distracted, and slower to housebreak compared to some other breeds. That’s why shih tzu potty training requires patience, structure, and an understanding of how this unique breed learns.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about shih tzu potty training, including common mistakes, proven tips, schedules, crate training, and positive reinforcement methods tailored specifically to their temperament. You’ll also find a helpful section on choosing a responsible Shih Tzu breeder.
Let’s dive into how to set your puppy up for success!
Understanding the Shih Tzu Temperament
Before diving into the strategies, it’s important to understand why shih tzu potty training can be tricky.
Shih Tzus are:
- Sweet-natured
- People-oriented
- Playful
- Easily distracted
- Slow to mature
- Sensitive to tone and emotion
- Motivated by praise and affection
Their small size also means:
- Tiny bladders
- Less ability to “hold it”
- Frequent potty breaks are required
Understanding these factors helps you shape a plan that meets your Shih Tzu where they are developmentally and emotionally.
1. Establish a Consistent Routine
Consistency is everything in shih tzu potty training. A schedule teaches your puppy predictability and reduces accidents.
The ideal schedule:
Take your Shih Tzu outside:
- First thing in the morning
- After every nap
- After meals
- After playtime
- Before bedtime
- Every 1–2 hours when awake
This level of routine helps your puppy understand that potty breaks happen at predictable times.
Why it works:
Shih Tzus thrive on structure. A routine provides clarity and reduces confusion, forming strong potty habits early.
2. Use a Designated Potty Spot
Pick a specific outdoor area and take your puppy there every time. The repeated scent helps your Shih Tzu make the association more quickly.
How to reinforce:
- Walk them directly to the spot
- Stand still
- Wait patiently
- Praise immediately after success
This targeted approach strengthens the purpose of the outing.
3. Crate Training for Faster Housebreaking
Crate training is one of the most effective methods for shih tzu potty training.
Why it works:
- Dogs naturally avoid soiling where they sleep
- Helps regulate routine
- Encourages bladder control
- Prevents roaming (which leads to sneaky accidents)
Crate tips:
- Choose a properly sized crate (just enough room to stand and turn)
- Make it cozy with bedding and a toy
- Never use the crate for punishment
- Stick to consistent potty breaks immediately after crate time
Helpful crate training guide from The Humane Society
4. Use High-Value Rewards Every Time
Positive reinforcement is essential. Shih Tzus respond incredibly well to praise, affection, and small treats.
Reward ideas:
- Tiny training treats
- Cheerful praise
- Gentle petting
- Excited tone of voice
Reward immediately — within one second — so your puppy clearly understands why they are being praised.
This is one of the core foundations of shih tzu potty training success.
5. Supervise Constantly Indoors
Most potty accidents happen when a puppy wanders unsupervised.
Use tools to help:
- Baby gates
- Exercise pens
- Keeping the puppy on a leash tethered to you
Watch for signs:
- Sniffing the floor
- Circling
- Whining
- Restlessness
Quickly interrupt and take your Shih Tzu outside. Over time, this builds awareness and reduces household accidents.
6. Clean Accidents With an Enzymatic Cleaner
Regular cleaners don’t remove scent markers. Use an enzymatic cleaner so your puppy won’t return to the same spot.
Great enzyme cleaners from Chewy can be found here.
This is essential for maintaining progress in shih tzu potty training.
7. Understand Age-Appropriate Expectations
A helpful rule of thumb:
Your Shih Tzu can hold their bladder for the number of months they are old + 1 hour (up to a max of 4–5 hours).
Meaning:
- 2-month-old: 2–3 hours
- 3-month-old: 3–4 hours
- 4-month-old: 4–5 hours
Shih Tzus often take slightly longer to mature, so patience is key.
Lower expectations = less frustration = smoother shih tzu potty training.
8. Prepare for Weather Sensitivity
Shih Tzus often dislike:
- Rain
- Cold grass
- Wet surfaces
- Snow
- Wind
This can stall shih tzu potty training, but with accommodations, you can keep progressing.
Try:
- A covered potty area
- A grass patch on a porch
- A raincoat
- Quick potty outings with immediate reward
- Warm praise and cuddles afterward
Make the outside experience as positive as possible.
9. Prevent Submissive or Excited Urination
Shih Tzus are a sensitive breed. Some puppies may pee when:
- Greeting guests
- Being picked up
- Getting overly excited
- Feeling nervous
To prevent this:
- Keep greetings calm
- Avoid bending over quickly
- Build confidence with positive reinforcement
- Take them outside before guests arrive
- Avoid scolding
This is not a behavior problem — just part of sensitive puppy development.
10. Introduce Potty Bells or a Door Signal
Many owners love using potty bells or a “sit at the door” cue.
To train it:
- Bring your Shih Tzu to the bells
- Gently guide their paw to tap it
- Immediately take them outside
- Reward after potty success
Over time, they learn to ring the bell to communicate bathroom needs.
This communication tool greatly supports shih tzu potty training.
Bonus Tip: Transitioning to Indoor + Outdoor Options
Some Shih Tzu owners choose indoor potty pads in addition to outdoor training, especially in apartments or bad weather.
If you want to use both:
- Keep the pad in the same location
- Use it only when you cannot go out
- Transition slowly by moving the pad closer to the door
- Avoid multiple pad locations
Clear structure prevents confusion and keeps shih tzu potty training on track.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Shih Tzu Potty Training
Avoid:
- Punishing accidents
- Leaving food down all day
- Allowing free roaming
- Inconsistent routines
- Long gaps between breaks
- Expecting too much too soon
- Reacting emotionally
Patience, calmness, and consistency lead to long-term success.
How Long Does Shih Tzu Potty Training Take?
Most Shih Tzus need:
- 4–6 months for dependable daytime training
- Up to 1 year for full consistency
Small breeds simply take longer, and Shih Tzus especially benefit from repetition, predictability, and gentle methods.
Stick with your plan — it will pay off!
Choosing a Responsible Shih Tzu Breeder
A great potty training experience begins long before the puppy ever comes home. Responsible breeders set the foundation by providing:
✔ Early neurological stimulation
ENS helps puppies become more adaptable to training and stress.
✔ Clean whelping and play areas
This teaches puppies not to soil their sleeping space — a huge head start for shih tzu potty training.
✔ Socialization
Puppies exposed to different sights, smells, and sounds adapt better to new experiences like outdoor potty breaks.
✔ Health-tested parents
Healthy parents = healthy puppies = better focus, confidence, and responsiveness to training.
✔ Transparency and support
Reputable breeders:
- Share health records
- Communicate openly
- Help match puppy personalities
- Offer guidance and lifetime support
Breeders who invest time and love into their puppies naturally raise dogs who are easier to train.
Start Your Journey With a Well-Raised Shih Tzu Puppy
If you’re ready to begin life with a happy, healthy, well-socialized Shih Tzu from a breeder who prioritizes ethical practices, excellent early care, and lifelong support, now is the time to take the next step.
👉 Visit Famiy Affair Puppies today to explore available puppies, upcoming litters, and resources for new Shih Tzu families. Your perfect companion is waiting!