How to House Train a Chihuahua Puppy

Training a chihuahua puppy can be difficult as they are some of the toughest breeds to house train. Be patient and use positive reinforcement to get your chihuahua to learn where they may go and how to control some of their more destructive urges around the house. Within a few weeks, you may be able to train your puppy if you are prepared to stand firm against that cute little creature running havoc in your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy pads or newspapers
  • Crate
  • Blankets
  • Leash
  • Treats
  • Odor remover spray
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Instructions

  1. Establishing Boundaries

    • 1

      Create a schedule for your puppy. Include how often you will feed them and when you will take them out on a walk so they can "do their business". Keep in mind that a Chihuahua puppy that is less than 6 months old can only hold their bladder for about 4 hours. In your schedule, include a delay of 30 minutes from feeding to walking so that you can train your dog to begin to associate feeding and bathroom together.

    • 2

      Seperate feeding, sleeping and eliminating areas. Depending on where you live, you may not be able to take your pet outside to relieve himself. Designate certain areas of the home where you want them to eliminate. Place puppy pads, newspapers, or a litter box in those areas.

    • 3

      Set up a crate and train your chihuahua to go into this place when you are out of the house. Typically, dogs will not relieve themselves in areas they associate with sleeping or eating. Place blankets inside the crate to make it comfortable for your pet. If you will be gone for longer than your puppy's normal feeding times, leave some water and food accessible in the crate for your pet. Crating will help keep your chihuahua from destroying other things in the house. Some chihuahuas will also sleep in their crate by choice or training if you do not want them sleeping in your bed or on your furniture.

    • 4

      Take your pet (or allow them access) to the areas you want them to eliminate as often as possible when you are home. When you take them out, give them a treat when they do all their elimination outside to encourage it. Do not punish them for accidents inside the house or away from their designated elimination areas. Chihuahuas do not respond well to negative feedback. Giving praise, treats and affection when your dog behaves appropriately will help greatly in their training process.

    • 5

      Use an odor spray remover to prevent your chihuahua from eliminating in the same places on the carpet repeatedly.