Caring for the psychological well-being of your Shih Tzu is integral to the dog’s overall health and safety. A dog that is doing well psychologically is a dog that is better off as a whole. This allows him or her to adapt to changes, manage stressful situations, and become a loving and friendly member of the family. There are steps that you can take to make sure that your dog is psychologically well. With patience, care, and understanding, you can make sure your Shih Tzu is happy, healthy, and comfortable.

1. Before You Begin

Before attempting to do anything, make sure that you understand your dog’s preferences and needs. Every dog is unique and has its own personality. This includes their own personality traits, needs, preferences, fears, and anxieties. Whether beginning to groom the dog or trying to make him or her friendly to strangers, you have to start with the basics. Learning more about the dog will make it easier to work with his distinct personality.

Speaking to a vet is helpful here. You can get guidance and information that ensures you're doing the right things for your pup. It also gives you greater insight into your dog.

2. Set Up a Schedule

Dogs prefer schedules. When it comes to the psychological well-being of your Shih Tzu, you want to set a schedule for everything that you do. This includes feeding, walks, appointments, grooming, and training. No matter what you plan to do, make sure that it fits into the schedule that you have set. Keeping the dog on this schedule can also reduce anxieties because there are no unknowns.

3. Have Key Phrases

Whenever you plan to do something, have a key phrase to go with it. It gives your dog knowledge of what is about to happen. It keeps him or her informed. For stressful situations, this can reduce the anxiety and make it easier to cope.

4. Do Not Rush

If you want to start grooming, training, or introducing something new, do not rush into it. Embrace it slowly and at your dog’s comfort level. Make him or her comfortable with it at first, progressing naturally as it becomes less terrifying.

5. Bring In a Familiar Face

A large part of psychological well-being in your Shih Tzu is having a comfortable presence. Have the person that the dog deems master and closest companion do a large part of the hard work. It can help with managing these situations.

5 Things To Do For Psychological Well-Being of Your Shih Tzu

2. Set Up a Schedule