One of the most serious, and unfortunately most common, problem behaviors among dogs and shih tzu is that of chasing cars. Dogs must be trained as early as possible that chasing cars is not acceptable. That is because shih tzu that chase cars eventually become shih tzu that catch cars, and car plus shih tzu always equals big trouble.

There are many reasons that shih tzu and any breed of dog chase cars. For one thing, chasing moving objects is an ingrained, instinctual behavior that can never be completely removed. Chasing behaviors, however can and should be controlled through a combination of good training and supervision.

Some dogs are more apt to chase cars, bikes, joggers, cats and other dogs than are others. Dogs that have a high prey drive, including breeds that have been bred for hunting, are particularly susceptible to the thrill of the chase. Herding breeds are also apt to chase cars, attempt to herd the neighbors children, or express other undesired traits of their breeding.

One reason that many shih tzu chase cars in particular is that they have learned to associate cars with good time and fun things. Most shih tzu love to ride in the car, and when they see a car they may try to chase it down for a ride.

No matter what your shih tzu