Chihuahuas make wonderful pets. They are loving,
loyal, and make great watch dogs. However, if you are thinking of
getting one, you need to know how to potty-train your Chihuahua the
right way.
Just like all small dog breeds, Chihuahuas oftentimes
have difficulty becoming potty-trained. But don't let this hinder your
decision to own one. The benefits owning one outweigh this. Just follow
these guidelines to help ensure your Chihuahua becomes potty-trained.
The
best time to start potty-training your Chihuahua is when they are a
puppy. But, keep in mind that puppies bladders are not fully developed
until later.
- Take them outside to potty often. I recommend once an hour, every hour, for a puppy.
- Always
take your Chihuahua to the same area outside. They will recognize the
area and are more likely to go potty where they have already been.
- Say
a simple phrase, such as "go potty" when you take your Chihuahua
outside. They will start to associate the command with the action.
Remember to only say one specific phrase, and keep saying it while you
are outside. Saying different phrases can confuse your Chihuahua.
- When
your Chihuahua goes potty outside, give them a doggie treat, and lots
of petting. As you probably know, they love treats and will do about
anything for them, including going potty.
- Unfortunately
accidents will happen. When you see your Chihuahua going potty inside
the house, just speak loudly "STOP", or "NO", and immediately take them
back outside. You should never physically hurt your Chihuahua or stick
their nose in it. This can have an adverse affect and really disrupt
the training process.
- You should put your
Chihuahua in a crate at night times and when you are away from home
until they are potty trained. Most dogs don't want to sleep in their
own pee, so they will hold it. When you wake up or get back home, you
should take your Chihuahua outside first thing.
- Monitor
how much water your Chihuahua is drinking. Some dogs will literally
drink until the bowl is dry, and what goes in must come out. You
shouldn't give your Chihuahua any water right before you put them up in
their crate.
Potty-training your
Chihuahua doesn't have to be a headache if you follow these steps. Just
be patient, consistent, and success will follow!
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