Crates come in several types such as wire cage, plastic carrier, soft-sided canvas or nylon crate. Among them, the wire crate is the most popularly used because it allows the dog to see from all directions and you can see him too from any viewpoint. Its convertible feature is very ideal if you want it small or large for the actual size of your dog.

The Importance of a Crate to Your Shih Tzu

Crate training is one important introduction to your obedience training plan to avoid Shih Tzu problems. A crate becomes your dog’s private place and you will find him used to it after he had realized it’s good to be in his own domain. He becomes comfortable and contented without having to disturb you. As much as possible crate train your Shih Tzu while he is a puppy; he’ll learn faster than when he is older. A crate trained dog in more vigilant and conscious, with very positive Shih Tzu behaviors.

How to Do Crate Training for Your Shih Tzu

As mentioned above, your Shih Tzu needs crate training while he is a puppy. An older dog that has never experience being placed in a crate will be upset and anxious because of the small space; it will take him longer and harder to adapt. If you let the crate to be your dog’s first comfortable place, there’s nothing next to worry about housebreaking Shih Tzu.

At first, the best place to position the crate is a room where family members go frequently. You can put the crate in your bedroom at night to provide a safe presence to your Shih Tzu puppy. As months go by, you can gradually put the crate in a separate room but for the mean time be close to your huggable stuff.

Strictly speaking; if you want to crate train your puppy…..you have to make sure the place is clean and with a comfortable place to lie down and with drinking water. An additional toy to play with can make your friend happy and occupied and later develop pleasant Shih Tzu behavior. Providing large crate for the small size of your dog is not advisable. A size that will allow him to sleep comfortably and turn-around is good enough.

A Shih Tzu under crate training often gets upset. Don’t get him get out of the crate to give him attention. He will easily associate that making a noise will set him free from being confined. If he’s been quiet for at least 5 minutes that’s the time to get him out, praise him and reward him with a treat to reinforce the good behavior.

During crate training it is important to include the regular schedule for the call of nature. A dog cannot hold it forever. If he is left too long he will make a mess inside the crate and you should not punish him for that. After waking up and once in the afternoon is good time for toilet training out of the crate.

After an efficient crate training your Shih Tzu problems will be lesser. You’ll trust your dog that he will not be aggressive and anxious when you leave him behind. He will not destroy or chew your furniture, and you’ll come home to a happy Shih Tzu.