House training is one of the most important things to teach your Shih Tzu, but it requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs, but they can also be stubborn, which means potty training might take some time. Whether you want your dog to use a potty pad indoors or go outside, the key is to establish a clear routine and reward good behavior.
In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step methods to train your Shih Tzu to relieve itself in the right place, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to make the process easier.
How Long Does It Take to Potty Train a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus are small dogs with small bladders, so they need frequent bathroom breaks. Training can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on consistency and your dog’s personality.
On average:
- Puppies (8-12 weeks old) → May take 4-6 months to fully train.
- Older Shih Tzus (6+ months) → Can learn in a few weeks if trained consistently.
The key to success is starting early, being patient, and sticking to a routine.
Should You Use a Potty Pad or Train Your Shih Tzu to Go Outside?
Before you start, decide whether you want your Shih Tzu to:
✅ Use a potty pad indoors (ideal for apartment living or cold climates).
✅ Go outside (best for owners with access to a yard).
✅ A combination of both (potty pad for emergencies, outdoor training as a priority).
Both methods can be successful, but choose one and stick with it to avoid confusion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Potty Training a Shih Tzu
1. Set a Consistent Schedule
A regular routine helps your Shih Tzu understand when and where to go potty. Take them to the designated potty area:
- First thing in the morning
- After meals (15-30 minutes later)
- After playtime and naps
- Before bedtime
Puppies need to go potty every 2-3 hours, while adults can hold it for 4-6 hours.
2. Choose a Designated Potty Spot
Take your Shih Tzu to the same place every time to create an association.
- For potty pads → Keep the pad in a quiet, consistent location.
- For outdoor training → Use the same yard spot and take them on a leash.
3. Use a Command Word
Each time your Shih Tzu is about to go, say a command word like:
🗣️ “Go potty” or “Do your business”
Over time, your dog will associate the command with the action.
4. Reward Good Behavior Immediately
Shih Tzus respond best to positive reinforcement. Right after your dog potties in the correct spot, immediately:
✅ Give them a small treat
✅ Use praise (“Good job!”)
✅ Offer a quick pet or belly rub
Rewards make your dog more likely to repeat the behavior in the correct place.
5. Watch for Signs That Your Shih Tzu Needs to Go
Pay attention to warning signs that your dog needs to go potty:
- Sniffing the ground
- Circling or whining
- Walking toward a previous potty spot
If you see these signs, quickly take them to the designated potty area.
6. Avoid Punishment for Accidents
Accidents will happen, especially with puppies. If you catch your dog in the act:
❌ Do not yell or punish them – This can create fear and slow down training.
✅ Interrupt gently (“Oops!”) and move them to the potty area.
✅ Clean the area thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to remove the smell.
If you find an accident after it has happened, just clean it up—dogs won’t understand punishment after the fact.
How to Train a Shih Tzu to Use a Potty Pad Indoors
Potty pads are useful for owners who live in apartments, cold weather areas, or work long hours.
1. Choose the Right Spot
Place the potty pad in a low-traffic, quiet area so your dog feels comfortable.
2. Lead Your Dog to the Pad Regularly
Take your Shih Tzu to the pad after eating, drinking, sleeping, or playing.
3. Reward Them for Using It Correctly
When they use the pad, praise and reward them immediately.
4. Keep the Pad in the Same Place
Avoid moving the pad too often, as this can confuse your dog.
5. Transition to Outdoor Training (Optional)
If you want to move from potty pads to outdoor training, gradually:
- Move the pad closer to the door over time.
- Start taking your dog outside after meals instead of using the pad.
- Reward outdoor potty trips more than indoor ones.
How to Train a Shih Tzu to Go Potty Outside
1. Take Them Outside Often
Shih Tzus have small bladders, so young puppies need frequent trips outside.
2. Use a Leash to Guide Them to the Spot
Always take them to the same area so they associate it with potty time.
3. Give a Reward Immediately
Once they go, reward them with a treat and praise.
4. Be Patient and Wait
If your Shih Tzu doesn’t go right away, stay outside for a few more minutes. If they still don’t go, bring them inside and try again later.
5. Be Consistent with Routine
Stick to a schedule so your dog learns when it’s time to go outside.
Common Potty Training Problems and Solutions
❌ Problem: My Shih Tzu Keeps Having Accidents Inside
✅ Solution: Increase potty breaks, reinforce positive behavior, and clean accidents thoroughly.
❌ Problem: My Shih Tzu Only Uses the Pad Sometimes
✅ Solution: Supervise them more closely and take them to the pad after every meal, nap, and play session.
❌ Problem: My Dog Pees in Different Areas of the House
✅ Solution: Keep them in a smaller space with the pad nearby, then expand their access once they learn.
❌ Problem: My Shih Tzu Won’t Go Outside in Bad Weather
✅ Solution: Use a covered area, pee pads as backup, or a raincoat to encourage outdoor trips.
When Should a Shih Tzu Be Fully House Trained?
With consistent training, most Shih Tzus learn within 4-6 months. However, each dog is different, and some may take longer.
If your Shih Tzu is over 1 year old and still having frequent accidents, consult a vet to rule out medical issues.
Final Thoughts
Potty training a Shih Tzu requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Whether using potty pads or outdoor training, sticking to a routine, rewarding success, and avoiding punishment will help your dog learn faster.
With proper training, your Shih Tzu will develop good bathroom habits and enjoy a clean, happy home environment.