At What Age Does a Shih Tzu Dog Calm Down

Known for their long, plush coats, friendly attitudes, and exuberant activity, Shih Tzu dogs are a well-liked little dog breed.

But what transpires when their energy is expended to excess? At what age do Shih Tzu puppies calm down and become more manageable?

This article will examine the solution to this quandary and offer advice on keeping your Shih Tzu partner content and healthy throughout their active years.

Table of Contents

When Do Shih Tzu Calm down?

Shih Tzu puppies generally exhibit a more calm or relaxed demeanor between the ages of half a year and 12 months.

However, this timeline may fluctuate depending on the unique disposition of the dog and the training it has received.

By the time they reach the age of two, the majority of Shih Tzus will have developed a significantly tranquil disposition.

To aid in tempering a Shih Tzu puppy’s high energy levels, the owner must ensure consistent training and opportunities for physical exertion.

Furthermore, it is vital to provide a plethora of mental stimulation to the pup.

It is also imperative to set clear rules and limitations for the dog to abide by. This will help foster a more composed and well-behaved attitude in the puppy.

We will cover all the necessary steps below to calm your Shih Tzu puppy and all the information to understand its behavior.

Why is my Shih Tzu puppy so hyper?

The Shih Tzu dog breeds are inherently lively, and it is not uncommon for them to experience excessive energy.

One of the main contributors to hyperactivity in Shih Tzu puppies is a lack of sufficient physical exercise.

These puppies may become agitated and annoyed without appropriate and consistent physical outlets.

Other potential causes of hyperactivity in Shih Tzus include an imbalanced diet, boredom, hereditary factors, and their innate sprightly and active temperament.

To subdue hyperactivity in a Shih Tzu, owners can employ positive reinforcement techniques such as rewarding the dog with treats or toys when it behaves in a desired manner.

Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that the pup gets enough physical activity to expend its surplus energy.

Enrolling the puppy in training classes can also aid in managing any hyperactivity issues.

Reasons Behind Shih Tzu’s Hyperactivity

There can be various reasons for hyperactivity in Shih Tzu, such as an unbalanced diet, a lack of physical activity, boredom, and even symptoms resembling ADHD.

To soothe a hyper Shih Tzu, owners can engage in regular moderate exercise, utilize positive reinforcement for good behavior, and offer mental stimulation through games and activities.

Also, maintaining a nutritious diet and ensuring adequate rest can help reduce hyperactivity.

How to Calm Down a Hyperactive Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus may become hyperactive due to a lack of physical activity, monotony, or stress.

To help soothe a hyperactive Shih Tzu, owners can take them on long walks or brisk walks to expend energy, participate in games like fetch, and include mental exercises such as puzzles during physical activity.

Reinforcing positive behavior through rewards can also aid in calming a Shih Tzu.

Furthermore, aromatherapy and herbal supplements containing calming herbs like chamomile, passionflower, ginger root, or valerian root may help to reduce anxiety in Shih Tzus.

Lastly, owners can use their own scent and sound to soothe their Shih Tzu.

A characteristic of the Shih Tzu breed as they reach maturity is the development of a more tranquil disposition, typically around the age of two.

However, it is worth noting that the manifestation of this trait can diverge significantly from one Shih Tzu to another, contingent on the dog’s innate temperament and training.

How To Train A Shih Tzu Puppy To Calm Down

Training a Shih Tzu puppy to be calm requires persistence and regularity.

The most effective method to achieve a clear Shih Tzu is to provide them with enough physical activity, games, and mental stimulation.

Additionally, reinforcing good behavior with rewards can help teach the puppy when and how to be calm.

Using herbal supplements containing calming herbs such as chamomile, passionflower, ginger root, or valerian root can also be helpful.

Aromatherapy can also be used as an aid in calming a hyperactive Shih Tzu.

With the proper training, most Shih Tzu puppies will become calmer between 6 months and 1 year of age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is My Shih Tzu Puppy Very Quiet & So Calm?

There can be multiple explanations for why a Shih Tzu puppy may exhibit a very calm and serene attitude.

Some possible factors include discomfort or stress, hoarseness resulting from excessive vocalization, age, and even neutering/spaying.

It’s important to note that Shih Tzus are known for their calm personalities, and methods are available to reduce excessive barking.

Training the puppy with positive reinforcement techniques and providing enough physical and mental stimulation can help keep them occupied and reduce anxiety.

It is worth mentioning that Shih Tzus are considered one of the more tranquil breeds, and various techniques are obtainable to help curb excessive barking.

Incorporating positive reinforcement in training can aid the puppy in learning how to stay calm in multiple situations.

Additionally, providing ample physical and mental stimulation can help keep them occupied and minimize their anxiety.

What Are Problems That Can Arise From a Hyper Shih Tzu?

Hyperactivity in Shih Tzus can lead to training challenges, a heightened need for attention, incessant barking, and destructive chewing habits.

It is crucial to address hyperactivity in Shih Tzus as it can result in severe consequences if left unmitigated.

To soothe a hyperactive Shih Tzu, owners should provide ample opportunities to expend their stored energy through physical activity and socialization, engage their minds with mental stimulation, and employ positive reinforcement during interactions.

The potential causes of hyperactivity in Shih Tzus include:

Boredom.
A need for physical outlets.
Insufficient mental stimulation.
Underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or allergies.

Why Has My Shih Tzu Puppy Gone From Being Calm To Aggressive?

While it is uncommon, Shih Tzu puppies can exhibit aggressive behavior.

A range of factors, such as inadequate socialization, frustration, fear, anxiety, possessiveness, and lack of proper training or guidance from the owner, can cause aggression in Shih Tzus.

Health issues can also contribute to aggression in Shih Tzus, so it is essential to rule out any underlying medical conditions or hidden injuries with a visit to the vet before determining that your pup is excessively aggressive.

The critical time for a Shih Tzu’s behavioral development occurs during the 6th week.

If socialization is not established during this period, it can be more challenging to prevent aggressive behaviour from arising.

Fostering positive associations between the puppy and other individuals and animals can help mitigate aggressive behavior.

Additionally, providing consistent training and guidance from an early age can aid in preventing aggression in Shih Tzus.

Are Shih Tzu Adults & Old Calmer Than Puppies?

Shih Tzu, as they mature, tend to exhibit a more subdued demeanour than their exuberant puppyhood.

A Shih Tzu’s boisterousness can be tamed with suitable training when they reach half a year to a year old.

As they advance in years, they become more affectionate and well-mannered.

Though they may not possess the physical attributes of a guard dog, their attentiveness and activity level render them excellent watchdogs.

Are Puppies Of Other Breeds Calmer Than Shih Tzu?

Shih Tzus are celebrated for their amiable, gregarious, and blithesome natures.

Though, they can be high-strung and require great care and attention.

They tend to interact well with other canines and have an amiable energy level.

Their sagacity determines their temperament, rendering them captivating and pleasant. Furthermore, they tend to shed less fur than many other breeds.

It can be challenging to determine whether puppies of other breeds possess a more composed disposition than Shih Tzus, considering the diversity and singularity of each canine’s temperament.

Nonetheless, it bears mentioning that certain species may boast a reputation of being more calm and equable and thus may be considered more serene than Shih Tzus on average.

Factors such as the breed’s size, energy level, and intended purpose can also play a critical role in determining the composure of a puppy.

For instance, selectively bred for hunting or herding species may have higher energy levels.

In contrast, breeds bred for companionship may have more relaxed temperaments.

It’s also crucial to remember that environmental and training factors can also shape the behaviour and character of a puppy.

Thus, it’s paramount to research the breed and the individual puppy’s personality before deciding and seeking guidance from a veterinarian or professional dog trainer.

At what age do Shih Tzu puppies go into heat?

Shih Tzu puppies commonly attain sexual maturity between the ages of 4 to 7 months, as per various sources.

During this phase, female Shih Tzus undergo physiological changes such as vulval inflammation and the emergence of slight amounts of blood.

The average duration of a Shih Tzu’s oestrous cycle is around 23 days or roughly 2 to 4 weeks, and it usually happens twice a year.

However, it’s worth noting that the timing and duration of an oestrous cycle can vary from dog to dog and can be affected by various factors such as nutrition, exercise, and overall health.

It is of utmost importance to acquire the expert advice of a veterinarian to ensure your beloved dog’s optimal health and welfare and garner a thorough comprehension of the most appropriate means of providing care and nurturing during this important stage of their life.

When do Shih Tzu puppies stop biting?

Shih Tzu puppies generally cease biting by the time they reach 1 year old.

This is because their teething process typically concludes at around 10 months when all their adult teeth have emerged.

The teething process can be uncomfortable for puppies, and they may resort to biting and nipping to relieve discomfort and investigate their surroundings.

To discourage biting, owners need to begin training their Shih Tzu puppy from an early age.

Training methods that can be effective include:

Redirecting the puppy’s focus away from biting.
Providing them with chew toys.
Reinforcing positive behaviour with rewards such as treats or praise.

Training should also be supported throughout the puppy’s life to maintain good behaviour and prevent any biting habits from returning.

It’s also important to understand that Shih Tzu puppies are naturally curious and like to explore the environment with their mouths.

So, it’s essential to be patient and consistent in training.

At what age do Shih Tzu puppies stop growing?

Shih Tzu puppies will attain their full adult stature around 6 to 8 months.

Nevertheless, it’s crucial to remember that they may continue to put on weight until they reach the age of 2.

The dimension and weight of a fully grown Shih Tzu can be contingent on the size of its progenitors.

Still, on average, a mature, healthy Shih Tzu starting at 1 year of age, weighs between 9 to 16 pounds.

It’s also worth mentioning that the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for Shih Tzu states that the optimal weight is between 9 and 16 pounds, with the range being between 9 and 18 pounds.

The height at the withers (the highest point of the shoulder blades) should be between 8.5 and 11 inches.

It’s essential to remember that while Shih Tzu is considered a small breed, there can be variations in size and weight.

It’s paramount to seek the advice of a veterinarian to ensure that your pet is at optimal weight.