Are Shih Tzus Aggressive (8 Causes of Aggression & Tips)

Are Shih Tzus aggressive, this is a common question about Shih Tzus since they are very affectionate and popular, let’s find out together.

All dogs do show signs of aggression at one point or the other, how long or the extent the signs last is considered a problem.

Let’s take a look at what causes aggression in Shih Tzus, forms of aggression, signs of aggression, and how to resolve aggression in Shih Tzus.

If all that interests you, continue reading…

Are Shih Tzus Aggressive

Shih Tzus are non-aggressive dogs that make wonderful family pets; they are normally amiable and have a naturally gregarious demeanor, and they are noted for being friendly canines due to their origins as human companions.

Shih Tzus might become aggressive due to a lack of socialization, fear, anxiety, and, most significantly, the owner’s lack of training or behavioral instruction.

Signs of aggression in Shih Tzus

Even though Shih Tzus are not known to be an aggressive breed, they still show some forms of aggression when the need arises.

Here are some of the most common signs of aggression found in Shih Tzus you should look out for:

• Shih Tzu s’ teeth are frequently displayed needlessly.
• On a regular basis, your Shih Tzu snap and snarl.
• Unnecessarily freezing in the company of other dogs or strangers.
• On a regular and temporary basis, growing bigger.
• The Shih Tzu barks aggressively when strangers or other dogs approach.
• He nips aggressively when playing with other pets.
• Adopt a rigid body position in the company of strangers or other canines.

Forms of aggression in Shih Tzus

Aggression in Shih Tzus can come in different forms or kinds, which includes the following:

1. Resource guarding form of aggression.
2. Anxiety form of aggression.
3. Redirected form of aggression.
4. Pain-Related form of aggression.
5. Social form of aggression

So, what triggers off aggression in Shih Tzus… Let’s find out!

Causes of aggression in Shih Tzus

Here are some of the most common causes of aggression in Shih Tzus you should know;

1. A repeat of a traumatic event

Traumatic situations in Shih Tzu are prevalent and one of the most prominent reasons for aggressive behavior in Shih Tzus.

Rescue dogs suffer from anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of previous trauma (PTSD).

Any Shih Tzus who has been exposed to trauma before is in danger of developing behavioral problems.

Shih Tzus that have lived in a hostile or harsh environment are more prone to develop emotional problems.

As a conditioned self-protective response, they become afraid and furious which leads to aggressive behaviors.

2. Frustration

There are several elements that contribute to Shih Tzu’s high degree of aggressiveness when he is unsatisfied.

Paying less attention than normal, disregarding your Shih Tzu, interfering with the dog’s meal schedule, and so on.

Shih Tzus are little companion dogs who are often startled by loud sounds or abrupt changes in routine.

All of this can lead to unnecessarily high levels of frustration and unhappiness, which can lead to aggressiveness.

3. Neglect or abuse

Lack of attention may make Shih Tzus aggressive because Shih Tzus require their owners’ entire attention at all times.

To properly care for your Shih Tzu, you should feed your Shih Tzu at the appropriate times, groom your dog, walk your dog, and take time to hug or touch your pup.

When your Shih Tzu does something wrong, instead of shouting at him, educate him and make sure he gets the correction.

Make sure your Shih Tzu is eating good food and has access to clean, freshwater.

To reduce the possibility of aggression, give your Shih Tzu the attention and exercise he or she requires, as well as grooming.

4. Inadequate obedience training

This is the most thorough response to your question about why my Shih Tzu bites other dogs.

Fifty to sixty percent of canine aggression against other dogs, people, or other pets is due to insufficient obedience training.

You must offer your Shih Tzu proper obedience training to lessen or eradicate hate toward other dogs or humans.

Teach your Shih Tzu how to follow directions and when to let go or break a habit with efficient obedience training.

5. Anxiety and stress

When a dog is separated from its owner for an extended period of time, separation anxiety and behavioral issues arise.

Smaller dogs, like Shih Tzus, may have separation anxiety and begin barking constantly minutes after their owners leave.

Although little dogs are more likely to yelp, it’s unclear why some dogs experience separation anxiety while others do not.

This is one of the most prevalent issues faced by Shih Tzu owners, and it’s usually due to a lack of fundamental training.

Separation anxiety causes Shih Tzus to become aggressive, dig, bark excessively, cry as well as other behavioral issues.

6. Canine illness

A dog’s illness is a condition or stage of a disease that affects the body or mind of the dog.

This can be caused by ingesting contaminated food or germs, as well as injuries, insect bites, and parasite infections.

When you ignore your Shih Tzu for a lengthy period of time because he is sick, he becomes hostile toward you, your family, and other pets.

As a result of its sickness, a sick Shih Tzu is always irritable and will attack other dogs of any size.

7. Poor socialization

The major cause of Shih Tzu’s aggressiveness is a lack of proper socialization, which is caused by the owner’s lack of time to socialize with their puppy.

Shih Tzus are little dogs with big personalities who always want to be in charge and treat you like a slave.

A Shih Tzu will be hostile against other dogs if it has not been properly socialized to be around or tolerate them.

You must correctly socialize your Shih Tzu with other dogs and other items that create fear in order to have a non-aggressive Shih Tzu.

Unsocialized Shih Tzus will exhibit barking and biting as a result of their lack of socialization.

8. Fear

Most Shih Tzus get violent when they believe they are in danger, are unable to run, and feel forced to defend themselves.

If a Shih Tzu is surrounded and has no way out, or if he thinks a hand over his head indicates he’ll be hit, this can happen.

To avoid inciting aggressive behavior in Shih Tzus, approach them with care, or better yet, let them approach you.

Start teaching and socializing your Shih Tzu while he’s a puppy to help him avoid fear in the future.

When Shih Tzus are threatened at any time of day or night, they become aggressive against other people or animals in the vicinity.

Let’s talk solutions…

Ways to resolve aggression in Shih Tzus

Some ways for preventing or dealing with Shih Tzu aggressiveness are as follows:

1. Never punish your Shih Tzu for aggression.
2. Provide mental stimulation activities for your Shih Tzu.
3. Start proper obedience training sessions for your Shih Tzu.
4. Start proper socialization for your Shih Tzu.
5. Desensitize your Shih Tzu with any aggressive triggers.
6. Provide your Shih Tzu’s basic needs.
7. Stick to a daily routine that works for you and your Shih Tzu.
8. Excessive reduction of stress can help prevent aggression.
9. Avoid separation anxiety in Shih Tzu.
10. Schedule regular medical check-ups.

With the information provided on this page, I strongly hope your question are Shih Tzus aggressive was answered.