How to House Train a Chihuahua in a Litterbox

The Chihuahua is a popular toy breed that adapts well to city life in an apartment. They reach a weight of no more than six pounds and are an ideal "purse dog." Chihuahuas have a spunky terrier-like personality with a lot of energy. They are very smart dogs, so litter training your Chihuahua is not difficult if you know how.

Things You'll Need

  • Litter box designed for small breed dogs
  • Dog litter
  • Scooper
  • Baby gate
  • Dog treats and toys
  • Crate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Designate a room for the litter box. Use a room with a tile or linoleum floor to allow for easier accident clean up. Put three to five inches of dog litter in a box designed for small breeds. Keep the dog confined near the litter box at all times by using a baby gate.

    • 2

      Prepare for accidents and have cleaning supplies and paper towels within reach. Immediately clean up any accidents your dog has. Place the paper towel in the litter box. Your Chihuahua will be more likely to use the litter box if he smells his own urine or feces in it. Clean accidents using a commercial pet odor remover or white vinegar. It is important to get rid of any urine or fecal odor outside the litter box. Dogs like to go where they have gone before.

    • 3

      Stay with your Chihuahua as much as you can while litter training. If your Chihuahua uses the litter box, you have to be there to reward her with praise and treats so that she will do it again. Likewise, you have to be there if your Chihuahua does not use the litter box, so that you can correct the dog with a loud noise, clap or "Psst!" followed by putting the Chihuahua into the box.

    • 4

      Purchase a crate from a pet store. Make sure that your crate is just big enough for your Chihuahua to lie down and turn around comfortably. A dog will not urinate or defecate where he considers his den to be. Putting the Chihuahua into a crate and then placing him into the litter box after letting him out will increase litter box usage success. Start with short increments of time between potty breaks and increase the time periods gradually. Give your Chihuahua a treat when he uses the litter box and offer praises such as "Good puppy!"