Are Shih Tzus Hard to Potty Train? An Honest Take
If you are house training a Shih Tzu right now, or thinking about getting one and worried about this part, here is an honest answer from someone who has raised the breed for years.
The honest answer
You will read both extremes online: that Shih Tzus are nearly impossible to potty train, and that they are one of the easiest breeds. The truth sits in the middle. Shih Tzus are smart and genuinely eager to please, which works in your favor. But they also come with a few small-dog quirks that can make house training take a little longer than you might expect. Go in with a good routine and realistic patience, and most do just fine.
Why a Shih Tzu can be a little tricky
- Small bladder. Little dogs simply cannot hold it as long, so they need more frequent trips, especially as puppies.
- Weather pickiness. A lot of Shih Tzus flatly refuse to go out in rain, snow, or cold wind. That standoff is exactly how an indoor accident happens.
- They are small and sneaky. A Shih Tzu can slip behind the couch and have an accident before you even notice.
What actually works
- Put them on a schedule. Out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, after play, and before bed. For a puppy, every one to two hours.
- Reward the second they go. Praise and a small treat the moment they finish in the right spot teaches it faster than anything else.
- Never punish accidents. It does not teach them where to go. It just makes them anxious and sneakier. Clean it up and move on.
- Use a crate or a small confined area when you cannot watch them. Dogs avoid soiling their own space, and it prevents the sneak-off accidents.
- Consider an indoor option. If you are in an apartment, or you get brutal winters like we do here in Wisconsin, a pad or an indoor grass patch is a perfectly reasonable setup.
How long does it take?
With a consistent routine and few missed trips, many Shih Tzus are reliably house trained in about two to four months. Some click faster, some take longer. Stay patient and consistent and you will get there.
Frequently asked questions
Are Shih Tzus one of the hardest dogs to potty train?
Not the hardest, but they can be a little slower than average because of their small bladder and dislike of bad weather. They are smart and eager to please, so a steady routine usually wins out.
How long does it take to potty train a Shih Tzu?
Often two to four months with a consistent schedule and positive reinforcement. Puppies need very frequent trips early on.
Should I use pee pads for a Shih Tzu?
They are a reasonable option, especially in apartments or harsh climates. Many owners use pads or an indoor grass patch as a backup or even the primary spot.
This article is written from one dog lover to another and is for general information only. It is not veterinary or professional training advice.
