How to Potty Train a Six-Year-Old Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are intelligent little dogs and eager to please. They usually house train easily. Your six-year-old Chihuahua, being an older dog, may be a little more difficult to potty train. Your dog may require more repetition and patience than their younger counterparts, but the end result will be rewarding for both you and the dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog crate
  • Food
  • Treats
  • Water dish
  • Enzyme based odor remover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a dog crate for your Chihuahua. Be sure that it is large enough for the dog to stand, turn around and lie down, and small enough that he cannot run about. A dog does not like to go to the potty in his sleeping area. Allow him to sleep in his crate at night and while you are away from home for short periods.

    • 2

      Feed your dog good quality food and do not alter his diet. Changes in diet can affect his potty schedule, often causing diarrhea.

    • 3

      Establish a regular time to feed your dog and adhere to the schedule. Dogs will usually need to go to the bathroom within a half hour of eating.

    • 4

      Put your Chihuahua outside immediately upon waking in the morning. Don't be deterred by other things. Continue to let him out every couple of hours throughout the day and shortly after eating.

    • 5

      Teach your dog to go to the same area each time he is put outside. Carry him to the area and wait while he goes to the potty. If he wanders from the area, pick him up and carry him back.

    • 6

      Tell your dog to "go potty" or "go pee" when you put him down. When he responds as directed, praise him enthusiastically and reward with a small treat.

    • 7

      Confine your Chihuahua to one area of your home. This could be one room or a space in the room that is blocked off.

    • 8

      Be alert for any signs that your Chihuahua needs to go out. Often dogs will pace, sniff, turn in circles or whine when they need to go to the potty.

    • 9

      Empty your Chihuahua's water dish about two hours before bedtime. This will assure that her bladder is empty at bedtime and help her to get through the night without an accident.

    • 10

      Clean any area where your dog has gone to the bathroom in the house. Remove any smell with an enzyme odor eliminator. Dogs tend to return to the same area if the smell remains.