Welcome to the Shurbeez Shih Tzu family! If you're reading this, you're likely a new or prospective Shih Tzu parent, and you're about to embark on a wonderful journey with your furry companion. As an ethical and honest breeder, my first priority is to help you foster a strong, loving connection with your Shih Tzu. This bond is the cornerstone of a happy, healthy life for both you and your pup.
The Heart of the ConnectionWhen you bring a Shih Tzu into your home, you're not just getting a pet; you're gaining a family member. Building a solid bond with your Shih Tzu is crucial, as it sets the stage for all aspects of their life, from training to grooming to simply enjoying each other’s company.
Understanding Your Shih TzuShih Tzus are known for their affectionate nature and playful personalities. They thrive on human interaction and form deep bonds with their owners. To nurture this connection, spend quality time with your Shih Tzu through activities like playtime, cuddling, and training sessions. Consistent, positive interaction helps your Shih Tzu feel secure and loved.
The Importance of TrustTrust is the foundation of any strong relationship, including the one you have with your Shih Tzu. One of the quickest ways to damage this trust is by teasing your dog. While it might seem harmless or even funny to see their confused or frustrated reactions, teasing can actually be very stressful and confusing for your Shih Tzu.
Why Teasing is HarmfulTeasing can lead to anxiety and mistrust. When your dog doesn't understand why you're behaving a certain way, it can create confusion and fear. Over time, this can erode the bond you’ve worked so hard to build. Instead of teasing, focus on positive reinforcement and clear, consistent communication. This way, your Shih Tzu will learn to trust you and feel safe in your presence.
Building Positive ExperiencesPositive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training and relationship building. Reward your Shih Tzu with treats, praise, and affection whenever they display good behavior. This not only encourages them to repeat those behaviors but also strengthens your bond.
Socialization and TrainingEarly socialization is vital for Shih Tzus. Expose them to different environments, people, and other dogs in a controlled and positive manner. This helps them become well-adjusted adults. Training sessions are also a great opportunity to bond. Keep them fun and rewarding, and remember to be patient. Shih Tzus are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be a bit stubborn.
Grooming as a Bonding ActivityRegular grooming is essential for Shih Tzus due to their long, luxurious coats. Turn grooming into a bonding experience rather than a chore. Brush your Shih Tzu daily to prevent mats and tangles, and use this time to check for any signs of health issues. Grooming can be a soothing activity that enhances your connection.
Join Our CommunityWe’re here to support you every step of the way. For more tips and advice, check out our previous blog posts on socialization, training, and grooming. Join us for our Instagram LIVE videos on Wednesdays at @shurbeezshihtzu or @lake_mountain_way with my sister Heather. We take turns hosting every other week, offering insights and answering your questions in real-time.
Visit our website, shurbeezshihtzu.com, for a wealth of information on caring for your Shih Tzu. We’re passionate about helping you and your furry friend build the best life together.

Thank you for being part of the Shurbeez Shih Tzu family. Remember, the love and trust you build with your Shih Tzu today will create a lifetime of joy and companionship.
Happy bonding!

Welcome, fellow Shih Tzu enthusiasts and new puppy parents! Today, let's talk about the foundation of a strong bond between you and your furry companion: training. As an ethical breeder and training expert, I'm passionate about helping you and your Shih Tzu build a lifelong partnership based on clear communication and mutual understanding. In this post, we'll delve into the first three commands that every dog owner, especially those with Shih Tzus, should master: come, sit, and leave it.
The Power of Communication: Come (Includes Name Recognition)Imagine this: you're out for a walk in the park, and your Shih Tzu spots a squirrel. Without hesitation, you call their name followed by "come," and they eagerly bound back to your side. That's the magic of the "come" command. Not only does it signify a recall to safety, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your pup. Start indoors in a quiet environment, use treats and praise generously, and gradually increase distractions as your Shih Tzu becomes more proficient.
Finding Zen: SitThe "sit" command is a fundamental behavior that sets the stage for more advanced training. Teaching your Shih Tzu to sit on command not only promotes calmness but also helps in various situations, such as greeting guests or waiting patiently for their dinner. Begin by luring your pup into a sitting position with a treat, pairing the action with a verbal cue like "sit," and rewarding promptly. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to mastering this command.
Temptation Tempered: Leave ItAh, the "leave it" command—the ultimate test of self-control for your curious Shih Tzu. Whether it's a tasty morsel on the ground or a forbidden object within reach, teaching your pup to "leave it" can prevent accidents and promote safety. Start by presenting an item of interest to your Shih Tzu, covering it with your hand, and saying "leave it." Reward them with a treat for compliance. With practice, your pup will learn to resist temptation and look to you for guidance.
Building Bonds Beyond CommandsTraining isn't just about obedience—it's about fostering a strong bond based on trust and cooperation. By working together on these basic commands, you're laying the groundwork for a fulfilling relationship with your Shih Tzu. Remember to be patient, consistent, and always use positive reinforcement methods.
If you're hungry for more training tips and Shih Tzu insights, be sure to check out our previous blog posts on shurbeezshihtzu.com. And mark your calendars for our Instagram LIVE videos every Wednesday at @shurbeezshihtzu or @lake_mountain_way, where my sister Heather and I share our expertise and answer your burning questions. Whether you're a seasoned owner or a first-time puppy parent, there's always something new to learn and explore together.
​Join the conversation, share your experiences, and let's embark on this exciting journey of companionship and discovery with our beloved Shih Tzus!