Take Time to Extend Time
This means simply to take the time getting your Shih Tzu accustomed to the crate before leaving him or her in there for long periods of time. Try the previous tips with feeding or just introducing the crate and as your dog’s comfort level increases, so can time spent in the crate. It’s necessary to stay close by at the beginning, and as your dog shows that he or she is feeling more comfortable, you can exit the room, checking in to see how your dog is doing. As time passes and the comfort level increases, you can then begin experimenting with putting your dog in the crate overnight or while you are away.
