How to Stop a Shih Tzu from Growling

Shih Tzu dogs look adorable and can be very hard to resist, especially the very cute puppies. However, they can also be very difficult to train, in spite of their sweet appearance. On the plus side, they are small enough to be great pets for apartment dwellers and they are also wonderful family dogs. However, owners must be very firm when training the Shih Tzu, especially when it come to growling. Being small, they can feel threatened or defensive around anyone larger, including children. This can cause the dog to growl, a behavior that has to be stopped as soon as possible before it progresses to biting or even attacking other dogs and people.

It is vital to be patient because the breed is known for being stubborn and impatience will only slow down any training efforts.  Also, they can be aggressive so it is important to start early and be consistent. Obedience training can be among the most helpful steps to take to help the Shih Tzu get used other dogs and people but only if the dog can get in a class as soon as possible. Ideally, training should start when the dog is a puppy. Also, do not punish a Shih Tzu for growling while eating. It is normal for all dogs to do this. This is instinctive and meant to keep other dogs from stealing its food.

As with any breed with behavior problems, medical reasons for growling should be ruled out. Shih Tzus can also have physical or emotional problems that make them prone to growling and their natural aggressiveness also plays a role. Because they look like stuffed animals or toys, family members should always take care to make sure that children aren’t rough with Shih Tzu dogs. This will only frighten the dog and cause the Shih Tzu to growl.

If an adult Shih Tzu dog has no prior history of growling, consult an animal behavior specialist as soon as possible. A  veterinarian may also need to check the dog for potential issues such as eye problems, another trait of this breed.The vet may be able to prescribe pain relievers or eye drops or suggest ways that owners may minimize issues. Any time a dog who does not have a history of growling suddenly becomes surly, it should be reason enough to consult a vet.

To stop a Shih Tzu from growling, it is best to hold the dog’s mouth shut while looking it firmly in the eyes. There is no need to yell. Remain calm and wait for the dog to stop growling. The praise the Shih Tzu when it ceases to growl. Be consistent so that the puppy or dog does not get mixed messages. Also, keep in mind that puppies who play together may growl while playing. This is not an aggressive act and does not have to be halted.

The Shih Tzu will always have a tendency to want to assert  dominance. For this reason, it not only needs to be quickly reminded of its rank in the pecking order but needs to learn proper behavior. It is important to know when the dog is just playing and when its growl truly means it is angry.

Never scream or yell or strike a Shih Tzu which growls. This only mimics the behavior that owners are trying to prevent. Yelling can seem like growling to a dog. . This can actually increase, rather than decrease, the behavior.  The best approach is to ignore any growling behavior or leave the room. In some instances, the dog may need to be put in a separate room, something most dogs dislike. When growling stops, reward the Shih Tzu and remarkable improvement should occur.