The importance of correcting Shih Tzu problem behaviors quickly is because if you wait to fix it, the harder it will be and the longer it will take to fix the problem. Although it is never impossible to retrain a dog, it is much easier on both you and the dog if it is done quickly and properly. Taking action quick will help make sure the issue is controlled right away and will remind your dog that they are to submit to you and follow your lead and instruction.
It is a matter of safety not only for your dog but also for the safety of you and those who come into contact with your dog. While the Shih Tzu looks are innocent and harmless, a lot of damage can be done to someone who gets too close or a child who just wants to give your dog some love. Even if you have avoided addressing the obedience issue with your dog, it is never too late to start taking steps in the right direction. When thinking about Shih Tzu problem behaviors, jumping up is often a problem that many owners complain about. This is even an issue that non-owners who have been around Shih Tzu will mention. If this problem behavior is not addressed in a quick manner, it can lead to many more issues. Something that seems so innocent, like jumping up, can become so much more and before you know it, your little pup will be in trouble and will not understand why. And while that may be okay in some cases, if your Shih Tzu jumps up onto a small toddler, they can cause that small child to fall onto the floor with the Shih Tzu jumping on top. This can lead to many different injuries including scratches and bumps to the head of the toddler. This behavior must be stopped right away as it can turn into a game of who can get whom with your dog. And while you think that your Shih Tzu is not around children at all so it doesn’t matter, what if someday they are? You could be faced with heavy fines to pay and hurt feelings to mend if your dog hurt someone because of them being allowed to jump up. The dog that pulls or tugs at their leash is simply trying to walk you and you show you where to go. Remember, that dogs are pack animals and in their minds, there is one pack leader. If you are not taking that role, they will assume it and take control of you and your home. Also, although you do your best at putting a secure leash and collar on your dog, you can never be completely sure that it will not break. A dog who is left allowed to pull and tug on their leash will end up running away if suddenly the leash breaks or you drop it. There are so many dogs lost every year because of that same bad behavior. With the proper training and action, you can prevent this from happening. This is another behavior that must be stopped right away.