Shih Tzu Begging Behavior

Overview

If your Shih Tzu has gotten into the habit of begging, you know how difficult this can be to deal with. And, if you've gotten into the habit of giving in to the begging, this goes double. It can be a vicious circle; you love your puppy or dog, you want to please them. But, in doing so, you are encouraging a negative habit.

In this section, we'll cover the consequences of this, why dogs beg, and steps you can take to finally stop begging behavior, for both food and for wanting to go outside without a legitimate bathroom need.

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Top 3 Things a Shih Tzu Begs For:

Human Food, Treats, and Table Scraps: Dogs often beg for anything their humans are eating or cooking, as well as for treats and scraps from the dining table.
Walks or Outdoor Time: Eager anticipation for walks or a desire to go outside when there are no bathroom needs.
Attention: Including petting, cuddles, or playtime.

Why Dogs Beg

In order to put a stop to any sort of negative behavior, it helps to know why your dog is doing it in the first place. Once you understand the reasoning, it'll be a lot easier to take the steps to resolve things.

The two reasons a Shih Tzu begs are:

1. They know that the outcome will be favorable. Whether it takes 5 minutes of begging or a full day, at the end of it all, the Shih Tzu will indeed receive what they're asking for. When this is the case, a dog will keep begging until they are emotionally and/or physically worn out. The goal will be reached, it's just a matter of time. So, baring anything else that may seem more favorable than the goal, begging will continue.

2. They are not sure of the outcome. If the goal is good enough, as long as the answer may be a 'yes', a dog may not give up. After all, if it's not a clear and stern 'no', there's no downside to begging for it. Doing so may turn the 'maybe' into a yes, and that's all that's needed for a Shih Tzu to keep going.

The Consequences of Begging for Food

There are several aspects of begging that make for a less-than-ideal situation:

1. If your Shih Tzu is begging for food, depending on what it is, handing it over might not be the healthiest choice. This is particularly true with human foods that are high in fats or salt.

2. In some cases, begging can be so constant that a dog's day revolves around it. This can cause stress for a Shih Tzu and their human.

3. If you're giving in to begging behavior for food, such an abundance of treats may be given out that it's interfering with meals.

4. If you're giving in, your Shih Tzu may be flat-out refusing to eat their own food.

How to Stop a Shih Tzu from Begging for Food

Shih tzu with approved treats, illustrated

At the root of stopping the begging behavior, you must nullify the two reasons that your Shih Tzu is begging. As mentioned, these are that begging will definitely result in a favorable way or it may result in a favorable way.

So, in other words, you'll want to teach your puppy or dog that no matter how much they beg, they will not receive what they are begging for. Of course, this is a bit easier said than done. However, we'll cover some steps you can take to go about this in a way that is low-stress for both you and your Shih Tzu.

#1 Decide what your Shih Tzu can and cannot have.

Sticking to a plan like this will help during times of weakness.

For your Shih Tzu's diet, one high-quality kibble and select healthy snacks are ideal. Opt for treats like Spot Farms Turkey Meatball Recipe, which is human-grade and USA-made with local ingredients including cranberries and honey, or consider Wellness Softbites Chicken and Lamb, rich in omega with apples, blueberries, sweet potatoes and carrots. This approach ensures your dog enjoys flavorful treats while maintaining a healthy diet.

#2 Everyone in the household must be on the same page.

To effectively stop your Shih Tzu from begging, everyone at home must agree on the rules about treats, including when and how they're given. If even one person hesitates to say 'no,' your little guy or gal will likely continue begging, regardless of others' refusal.

#3 Plan when snacks and treats will be given out.

Ideally, 4 to 5 small dry snacks should be given each day to keep a Shih Tzu satiated between meals. In addition to this, small moist training treats should be given to reward such things as housebreaking, commands, or even just good behavior. No matter how much begging occurs, tidbits will be given out only at these times.

#4 React appropriately to begging behavior.

Ignore the begging. Avoid giving attention or vocal responses like saying 'No' or explaining your refusal. Any attention can be interpreted by a dog as a possibility of getting what they want.
Distract your Shih Tzu. Engage them in a preferred activity, like a walk or a game of fetch. This redirection is more effective and beneficial than allowing an hour of begging.
Stand firm against begging. Dogs are persistent, and your Shih Tzu will beg as long as it's allowed. Be patient and outlast their begging attempts. Whether it takes minutes or hours, your little guy or gal will eventually understand that 'no' means no and will settle for their own food or the treat you offer. Consistently repeating this process will teach your Shih Tzu to stop begging, leading to a calmer environment where begging behavior is minimal.

How to React to Begging to Go Outside (when there's not a legitimate bathroom need)

It's not uncommon for a Shih Tzu, known for their charming personality, to persuade their human for extra walks or outdoor time. But if begging to go out is wearing you down, it's time to resolve this. Let's see what to do if your Shih Tzu Tzu persistently begs to go outside without an apparent need, even shortly after returning from a walk.

#1 Assess the Need

If you've just returned from a walk, it's likely that the begging isn't for bathroom purposes. But, begin by observing if your Shih Tzu shows genuine signs of needing to go out, such as sniffing or circling.

#2 Establish a Routine

Shih Tzu dogs respond exceptionally well to a consistent schedule. Establishing specific times for walks not only helps regulate their physical activity but also aids in their mental well-being. A structured timetable will also minimize confusion and anxiety for your them, as they will know what to expect throughout the day, reducing the likelihood of them begging to go outside at random times. This consistency fosters a sense of security and predictability in their daily life.

#3 Provide Alternatives

Sometimes, a Shih Tzu's desire to go outside is due to boredom or lack of stimulation. Address these underlying issues by providing more exercise or mental activities. Engage your Shih Tzu in indoor activities like fetch down a hallway with Zanies mini tennis balls.

Or hide a few tasty treats in an adorable and colorful snuffle mat like the pizza shaped Avont Snuffle Mat for Dogs which can keep them playing independently for quite a while.