How to Potty Train Chihuahuas
Housebreaking a Chihuahua may take more time and patience than you would need with another breed, as they are typically difficult to potty train. The American Kennel Club notes that this breed is highly intelligent, though, so persistence and constant supervision will help you potty train a Chihuahua successfully. Use a harness rather than a collar as you train it, because the Chihuahua tends to overestimate its size and may hurt its neck or throat without the full body control of a harness.
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Things You'll Need
- Harness
- Litter box, newspapers or puppy pads (optional)
- Treats (optional)
- Dog crate
- Leash
- Enzyme-based cleaner
Instructions
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1
Choose the appropriate area for your Chihuahua to relieve itself, and purchase any necessary supplies for this area. Consider a litter box or newspapers and puppy pads for its main bathroom if you live on the 25th floor of your building or if you don't have quick access to an outdoor area.
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2
Take the dog to its potty place as soon as it wakes up, approximately 10 minutes after it eats, before you go to sleep for the night, and as often as possible throughout the day.
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3
Praise your Chihuahua for relieving itself in the appropriate area by giving it a treat or giving it affection and verbal praise.
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4
Crate the dog when you are away from home to reduce the chance of messes in your home and to help it learn that some places are not suitable as a bathroom. Consider enrolling it in a "doggie day care" or having someone pet sit for you if you are away for more than a few hours each day.
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Watch the dog's every movement when you are home with it. If it begins to sniff the floor or walk in a circular motion, take it to the bathroom area. Attach the Chihuahua to your side, if needed, by fastening one end of a leash to your waist and one end to its harness.
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6
Clean accidents with an enzyme-based cleaner as soon as possible. The scent of urine will encourage your Chihuahua to continue urinating in the same place.
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Tips & Warnings
Say "no" if you catch the dog in the middle of a bad behavior, but do not raise your voice or spank it, because this can lead to submissive urination in inappropriate places.
Do not punish your Chihuahua if you find a puddle of urine in your home---the dog will not make the connection between its action and your punishment.
Do not leave your Chihuahua crated for a long period of time, because this can contribute to separation anxiety.
