Shih Tzu lovers always ask do Shih Tzus bark a lot, which is because of the popular saying that small breeds of dogs bark unnecessarily.
In this post, we will outline and discuss some common reasons why Shih Tzus bark unnecessarily which are due to certain things.
We will also outline some common ways to control and prevent excessive barking in Shih Tzus.
So read through to find out why or what triggers Shih Tzus to back a lot and some common solutions.
Do Shih Tzus Bark A lot
Despite their reputation as a quiet breed, Shih Tzus can bark a lot for a number of reasons, including fear, discomfort, anxiety, pain, seeking attention, and warning the owner of a stranger.
Despite the fact that most dog owners feel their canines are silent companions, certain breeds bark significantly more than others.
You’ve probably figured out what breed it is based on the quantity of barking. It’s important to remember that barking is a normal dog habit.
It has something to do with how they interact with other creatures. It is, however, a way for them to communicate with you.
Reasons Shih Tzus bark a lot
Here are some of the most prevalent reasons Shih Tzus bark as a way of expressing themselves:
1. Lack of proper socialization
Due to a lack of socialization, your Shih Tzus may be continually barking at humans, cats, other dogs, or pets.
Because this is a major concern among Shih Tzu owners, you should begin socializing your puppy as soon as possible.
You must teach your Shih Tzu not to interpret other dogs or pets in his or her environment as a danger.
Do this from the time your Shih Tzu is a puppy to reduce the chances of your Shih Tzu barking constantly.
Read more: 22 Pros And Cons Of Shih Tzu You Should know.
2. Presence of other animals
Unexpected animals, such as snakes or owls, may cause your Shih Tzu to bark excessively during day or night as a result of their fear.
So, if you notice your Shih Tzu barking or running at a certain spot, don’t disregard it; look into it.
Many animals prowl day and night, so make sure your surroundings are safe to prevent your Shih Tzu from barking due to creeping critters.
3. Unwanted strangers
If you live in a crowded city or neighborhood, you might think your Shih Tzu barks excessively.
Shih Tzus aren’t particularly good guard dogs, but they are unquestionably among the greatest watchdogs available.
If you do not properly train and socialize your dog, you will be presented with these barks on a frequent basis!
When the mailman arrived, the unsocialized Shih Tzu would continue to bark at him. Until you present them to the postal operator.
Even if they do not attack, Shih Tzus will continually alert their owners about outsiders. You will hear outsiders if they are nearby.
4. Seeking attention
When a dog, especially a Shih Tzu, wants to be noticed, it will bark or bite.
Shih Tzus were developed to be companion dogs that spend the majority of their time with their owners.
As a result, they rely on their owners for everything, including affection, food, water, and medical care.
If you’re not cautious, the nice little puppy you thought you know will become a vicious beast, barking, hacking, and jumping at you.
Simply establish a routine for them to follow so that they may receive what they require without having to ask or while you are away.
Nevertheless, when they want assistance, they may not begin barking incessantly.
5. Pain
Keep in mind how we mentioned that Shih Tzus aren’t renowned for being aggressive, but they can be if necessary?
So, discomfort and disease are two demands that should lead your Shih Tzus to bark needlessly; nevertheless, this can be solved with frequent medical checks.
If your Shih Tzu starts barking unnecessarily, immediately check for symptoms of discomfort or illness.
6. Fear
Fear is one of the most common reasons why Shih Tzus bark a lot and most of the time it is due to poor socialization.
Shih Tzus are small breeds of dogs, if not properly socialized they are always frightened with objects or pets bigger than them.
The following are some of the most prevalent causes of fear in Shih Tzus:
- Fireworks
- Thunder
- Darkness
- Gunshots
- Loud noises
7. Separation anxiety
Separation anxiety in Shih Tzus is a condition in which the dog feels worried and displays behavioral issues after being removed from its owner for an extended amount of time.
Within minutes of their owners departing, Shih Tzus develops separation anxiety.
It’s unclear why some dogs suffer from separation anxiety while others do not.
This is one of the most common problems that dog owners have, and it’s generally the result of a lack of basic training.
Separation anxiety, on the other hand, causes Shih Tzus to become aggressive, which leads to excessive barking.
Read more about the 9 Shih Tzu Anxiety Symptoms.
8. Boredom
Shih Tzus are social dogs who thrive on human connection and attention. If they feel bored, they may begin to bark.
They become nervous when left alone for lengthy periods of time and may bark to show their unhappiness.
Imagine spending the entire day at home, doing nothing. When Shih Tzus are bored, they share the same sentiments as humans.
9. To protect themselves
Dogs may bark at people rather than other dogs, or to keep strangers away from their owners.
Outsiders may cause a Shih Tzu to bark to alarm the owner, exactly as dogs do to each other.
Shih Tzus are always on the lookout for other dogs. Dogs are compelled to bark at each other.
Strangers will cause Shih Tzus to bark in order to notify other dogs of their presence.
They are always terrified by their small stature, which prompts them to bark incessantly. This, they believe, is a type of self-defense.
10. Excitement
Shih Tzus’ constant barking is a terrific method to bond with you when they hear someone coming home or approaching autos.
You’ll hear his or her eager bark while getting ready or going for a workout.
When pursuing a stick, Shih Tzus may be seen burrowing into the grass.
For example, a Shih Tzu could bark and jump over the fence to check if the other dogs will play with him.
Barking is a pleasant activity for Shih Tzus and a great way to interact with them.
Most Shih Tzus desire to shout in order to be heard. And most Shih Tzus want to be in charge of their own behaviors.
11. Effects of medication
As a result of a long-term therapy that renders them unstable, Shih Tzus might bark excessively.
Stay close to your veterinarian and ask him or her all of your Shih Tzu’s health-related questions instead of taking pharmacological advice from non-professionals.
An unfavorable consequence of a drug may lead your Shih Tzu to become aggressive, resulting in painful encounters.
Check to discover whether the medication you’re giving your Shih Tzus has any negative effects.
How to stop Shih Tzu from barking
Here are some typical methods for teaching a Shih Tzu not to bark excessively:
1. Proper socialization
The main benefit of early Shih Tzu socialization is that it instills a sense of calm, confidence, and affection in your Shih Tzus.
When you have a well-socialized Shih Tzu, you have a dog who is at ease with other dogs and welcomes visitors.
Ways of socializing a Shih Tzu
- Take your Shih Tzu to meet other dog owners as often as you can.
- With your Shih Tzus, go to dog shows.
- Visit a dog park with your Shih Tzu.
- It’s a wonderful idea to invite your neighbors who have other pets.
- Bring your Shih Tzus camping with you.
- With your Shih Tzus, go to puppy classes.
- You can watch your favorite TV shows with your Shih Tzus.
- Play tapes of dog movies for your Shih Tzus.
2. Ignore unnecessary barking
When your Shih Tzu barks unnecessarily or for no apparent reason, ignore them.
When your dog begins to bark, you should never express any emotion, good or negative, as bothersome as it may be.
Your dog is probably doing it to catch your attention, so even if you reply, he will get what he wants.
It’s critical to remember that no matter how long your dog barks, you must remain consistent and disregard his demands for attention.
You can only react in specific situations, such as when you see him barking at something potentially dangerous.
3. Get rid of all causal factors of fear
You can always get rid of or expose your Shih Tzus to the things that irritate them.
Call the postman and introduce him to your Shih Tzu if he becomes agitated when he sees the postman.
In this way, your Shih Tzus will understand that the postman is not a threat and will feel at peace with him.
Use the same method for anything else that may provoke a reaction from your Shih Tzus.
4. Provide mental stimulation
Boredom and a sedentary lifestyle are two reasons Shih Tzus bark, so keep them occupied and they won’t bark.
A daily 10-minute walk is ideal, but not in hot weather, since leaving your dog indoors or even playing a short-term extraction game might sap his energy.
Take it or leave it: Shih Tzus with too much energy will bark and indulge in meaningless activities.
Examine a variety of toys that will keep your Shih Tzu mentally stimulated.
5. Get a second pet to keep your Shih Tzu company
Getting a second pet may be the most efficient technique to convince your Shih Tzus to stop barking since Shih Tzus rely on their owners for attention and happiness.
Because Shih Tzus were created to have a human companion, you should get a second pet for them.
This will keep them occupied while you’re away, possibly alleviating separation anxiety.
Shih Tzus are rarely bored and are unaffected by the presence of other dogs.
6. Create and stick to a regular regimen
Keeping a daily plan is a simple method to guarantee that your Shih Tzus get the most of the training and path you want for them.
The secret to keeping your Shih Tzu active on a regular routine is to give him something to do at all times.
Stick to what works for you on a daily basis. It’s important to eat when it’s time to eat, play when it’s time to play, and sleep when it’s time to sleep, and so on.
7. Remain calm when your Shih Tzus bark
Screaming or yelling at your Shih Tzus to stop barking all the time sends the incorrect message, and your Shih Tzus will continue to bark.
The cornerstones of Shih Tzu training are tranquility, love, compassion, and trust.
Once you’ve calmed down, your Shih Tzus will stop barking.
Your questions Do Shih Tzus Bark A lot was answered!!!
Read more: 10 Shih Tzu Behavior Problems & Solutions.
