Shih Tzus are affectionate, playful, and lively dogs, but sometimes they can become overly excited or hyperactive, making it difficult for them to calm down. While some level of energy is normal, excessive restlessness can lead to destructive behaviors, difficulty following commands, or trouble sleeping.
If your Shih Tzu is constantly running around, barking excessively, or struggling to settle down, there are several strategies to help them release energy, relax, and develop a calmer temperament. In this guide, we’ll explore why Shih Tzus become hyperactive, how to manage their energy levels, and effective techniques to help them stay balanced and well-behaved.
Why Is My Shih Tzu So Hyperactive?
Hyperactivity in Shih Tzus can be caused by several factors, including lack of exercise, boredom, improper training, or even diet. Understanding the root cause of your dog’s excess energy will help you apply the right solutions.
1. Lack of Physical Exercise
Although Shih Tzus are a small breed, they still need daily exercise to burn off energy. Without enough movement, they may become restless, zoom around the house, or engage in destructive behaviors.
2. Mental Stimulation Deficiency
Shih Tzus are intelligent dogs that require mental challenges. If they don’t have enough interactive activities, they may resort to hyperactive behaviors out of boredom.
3. Overstimulation or Excitement
Some dogs get too excited when greeting visitors, playing with toys, or anticipating meals. This excitement can lead to jumping, barking, and restless behavior.
4. Anxiety or Stress
Hyperactivity can sometimes be a sign of anxiety or nervous energy. If a Shih Tzu is feeling insecure, lonely, or stressed, they may exhibit excessive movement, whining, or pacing.
5. Poor Diet and Excess Sugar
Diet plays a significant role in your dog’s energy levels. Low-quality dog food with too many carbohydrates, artificial ingredients, or sugar can cause spikes in energy and hyperactivity.
6. Lack of a Routine
Dogs thrive on structure and consistency. If your Shih Tzu has an irregular schedule, they may have trouble calming down, following commands, or resting properly.
7. Learned Behavior from Owners
If a Shih Tzu is constantly rewarded for jumping, barking, or seeking attention through hyperactive behavior, they may develop a habit of staying overly excited all the time.
How to Calm a Hyperactive Shih Tzu
If your Shih Tzu is always full of energy and struggles to relax, the good news is that there are effective ways to help them calm down.
1. Provide Daily Physical Exercise
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Even though Shih Tzus are small, they still need regular exercise to burn off energy.
Recommended Activities:
- Short walks (twice a day, 15-20 minutes each) to help them explore and release energy.
- Indoor play sessions with fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek.
- Obstacle courses using cushions and furniture to create a fun challenge.
Tip: If your Shih Tzu starts acting hyperactive, take them outside for a short walk to redirect their energy in a positive way.
2. Engage Their Mind with Mental Stimulation
Shih Tzus need mental challenges to stay balanced. Providing puzzle toys and interactive games will keep their brain engaged and reduce boredom-related hyperactivity.
Ways to Stimulate Your Shih Tzu Mentally:
- Puzzle feeders – Slow down eating and make them work for treats.
- Training sessions – Teach basic commands or new tricks.
- Scent games – Hide small treats around the house for them to find.
3. Teach the “Calm” Command
Training your Shih Tzu to respond to the command “Calm” or “Settle” will help manage their energy levels.
Steps to Teach “Calm”:
- When your dog is hyperactive, wait for a moment of stillness.
- Say “Calm” in a soft, firm voice.
- Reward them with praise or a small treat when they sit or stop jumping.
- Repeat daily to reinforce the behavior.
Tip: Never reward hyperactivity with excessive attention or playtime, as this may encourage the behavior.
4. Create a Relaxing Environment
A calm atmosphere helps encourage a relaxed state of mind. Try these strategies to reduce overstimulation:
- Lower the lights in the evening to signal quiet time.
- Use calming music or white noise to create a soothing ambiance.
- Provide a soft bed in a quiet area where they can relax.
Tip: If your Shih Tzu is prone to excitement when guests arrive, create a designated calming space where they can rest until they settle down.
5. Implement a Consistent Routine
Dogs feel more secure and balanced when they have a predictable daily schedule. Establish regular times for meals, walks, playtime, and rest to help them learn when to be active and when to relax.
Example Daily Routine for a Shih Tzu:
✅ Morning: Walk + feeding + light playtime.
✅ Afternoon: Nap + puzzle toy or training session.
✅ Evening: Another short walk + calm indoor play.
✅ Night: Wind-down time with low lights and relaxing music.
6. Use Calming Aids If Necessary
If your Shih Tzu is still struggling to calm down, there are safe calming aids available:
- Lavender or chamomile-infused dog sprays for relaxation.
- CBD treats (vet-approved) to help with anxiety and hyperactivity.
- Thundershirts (gentle pressure vests) to reduce excitement and stress.
Tip: Always consult your vet before using any supplements or calming products.
7. Avoid Overstimulating Situations
If your Shih Tzu gets too excited during specific events (guests arriving, meal times, or new environments), try these approaches:
- Ignore excited behavior until they calm down.
- Redirect their attention to a chew toy or treat.
- Teach an alternative behavior, such as sitting quietly before being greeted.
8. Adjust Their Diet for Balanced Energy
Some commercial dog foods contain high levels of artificial additives and sugars, which can contribute to hyperactivity.
Choose a balanced diet with:
✅ High-quality protein to maintain energy levels.
✅ Low-carb ingredients to avoid sugar spikes.
✅ No artificial colors or preservatives, which may affect behavior.
If you suspect your Shih Tzu’s diet is affecting their hyperactivity, consult your vet for dietary recommendations.
Final Thoughts
Hyperactivity in Shih Tzus is often caused by excess energy, boredom, overstimulation, or lack of routine. By providing consistent exercise, mental stimulation, and training, you can help your dog develop a calmer and more balanced temperament.
Key Takeaways:
- Exercise your Shih Tzu daily to help them release pent-up energy.
- Engage their mind with puzzle toys and training sessions.
- Create a calm environment to reduce overstimulation.
- Use a structured routine to help them understand when to be active and when to relax.
- Provide proper nutrition to maintain balanced energy levels.
With patience and the right approach, your Shih Tzu can learn to be playful but also know when to relax, creating a happier and well-behaved companion.