Best Way to Potty Train a Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are popular with people who live in apartments or small dwellings. They also do not need as much exercise as many other breeds. But that small size means the Chihuahua also has a small bladder. Ideally, an adult Chihuahua needs to go outside every six hours. If the dog will be stuck inside all of that time, then training to go in one spot in the house is a good option.

  1. Choose a Place

    • There are many options for Chihuahua indoor toilet areas because of their small size. You can choose from the traditional pile of old newspapers, ammonia-scented absorbent pads ("Piddle Pads"), a litter box using litter specifically for dogs (not cats) or an indoor box with artificial grass and a wire mesh covering the top. Keep in mind that dogs normally do not cover their scat and will trail litter around the home. Some paper-trained dogs will also think any newspaper is okay to use as a toilet.

    Routine

    • When Chihuahuas need to toilet, they walk around in circles, sniffing intensely. They may scratch the floor. If a male has marked a piece of furniture with urine, he will sniff that area again before lifting his leg. When the Chihuahua begins these behaviors, place the dog in the area where you want him to toilet. Praise verbally when they use the correct area. Be sure that everyone in the house follows this routine. Chihuahuas often need to toilet right after a car ride, after vigorous playtime, after waking up from sleep and about 10 or 20 minutes after eating.

    Cleaning

    • Never rub a Chihuahua's nose in a puddle or urine or pile of feces. The Chihuahua will not understand why you are doing this. They may even become prone to bite to defend themselves. Clean up any accident without any fuss. Be sure to check behind furniture or under tables, wherever the Chihuahua can fit into, for accidents or to discover the source of a smell that could be an accident. Do not use ammonia or vinegar cleaners, as these will smell like urine and encourage the Chihuahua to keep on urinating there. Use an enzyme-based cleaner on carpets. If you use Piddle Pads, they can be placed in a cat litter box to minimize cleaning.

    Medical Issues

    • Intact male Chihuahuas will mark their territory with urine. Neutering them will help correct lifting the leg inside of the home. According to "The Veterinarian's Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms' (Michael S. Garvey, DVM, et al, 1999), Chihuahuas are prone to a kidney defect that may lead to dribbling urine accidentally in the home. This needs the attention of a vet.