Chihuahua Potty-Training and Housebreaking

Potty-training is an essential process that every owner must go through with their Chihuahua. Unless you plan on keeping your furry four-legged friend in a fenced-in backyard (not recommended), you’ll have to teach them to use the bathroom outside the house and not inside. Unfortunately, however, Chihuahuas have a notorious reputation for being a breed that’s difficult and downright stubborn to housebreak. In fact, some owners throw in the flag and simply lay out pee pads for them instead. The truth is that practically any Chihuahua, no matter how old they are, can be potty-trained when it’s done correctly and under the right circumstances.

Although Chihuahuas can be successfully potty-trained at any age, it’s recommended that you start as soon you bring them into your home, preferably when they are still a puppy. During the first 6-12 months of a Chihuahua’s life, their brains are developing at a rapid pace; therefore, they will naturally catch on to routines and consistency. You can use this to your advantage by instilling the basic potty-training commands in your Chihuahua’s head. When they learn these principles at an early age, it will stay with them well into their adult years, making the potty-training process easier for the both of you.

Chihuahua Potty-Training – Where Should I Start?

Two Housebroken Chihuahua Puppies

It’s easy to feel lost and confused when you first bring your Chihuahua home. You’re busy preparing their bed, making sure they have food and water, and you’re probably playing them with, too. While all of this fine, you need to place potty-training at the top of your list of priorities. As stated above, it’s crucial that you begin teaching them the basics of where using the bathroom is acceptable and where it’s not.

Before you start attempting to potty-train your Chihuahua, you’ll need to pick up a few basic items first. These items are necessary to encourage good behavior, as well as prevent bad behavior. Here are the things you’ll need:

  • 1-2 boxes of small milk bone treats for rewarding good behavior.
  • A crate that’s just large enough for your Chihuahua to stand up and turn around in.
  • A small, comfortable bed with a couple soft blankets.
  • A soft, non-abrasive collar with a leash that’s at least 10-feet long.

Note: This isn’t an entire list of everything you need to own a Chihuahua, but rather a list of items that will come in handy when potty-training your Chihuahua.

Potty-Trained Chihuahua

Potty-Training Basics

One of the key factors to successfully potty-training your Chihuahua is letting them know when they do something bad. When you see them do their business on the floor inside your home, quickly walk over to them and immediately say “No!” or “Bad boy/girl!” You should never physically spank or hit your Chihuahua, as this may injure them and make it more difficult to train them. Instead, stick with a strong verbal statement, letting them know that what they did is unacceptable. Chihuahuas are quite emotional, and verbally telling them “no” while pointing at them is all it takes to get the message across.

No matter how hard you try to prevent it, accidents will happen. It’s an inevitable part of owning any indoor dog, regardless of breed, so don’t expect your Chihuahua to be any different. After you see them peeing or pooping inside the house, tell them “No!” and walk them outside. While you’re walking them, say something along the lines of “go potty” or “go pee-pee,” as this will help them associate the words with the actual behavior. It may take some time, but remain patient and wait for them to do their business. When they are good and use the bathroom outside, give them a milk bone treat along with lots of petting and praise as a reward for their good behavior. Treats go a long ways when it comes to potty-training and obedience training, so use them to your advantage.

Another little trick I’ve learned that helps to potty-train a Chihuahua is to always take them to the same place outside to do their business. Chihuahuas have a keen sense of smell and will be able to tell where they’ve used the bathroom before. When they come across an area where they’ve already used the bathroom, they will notice the scent and assume it’s okay to use the bathroom here again. You can begin walking your Chihuahua to other parts of the yard once they are older and fully potty-trained, but stick to a designated area during their early puppy years.

Chihuahua Crate Training

Some owners are under the impression that forcing a small Chihuahua to stay cooped up inside a crate is cruel and inhumane. After all, how fun can it be to remain stuck inside a crate where you can barely move around? The fact is, however, that a crate gives your Chihuahua their own personal space in which they can call home. There’s a certain sense of security they begin to feel and associate with their crate, and chances are they grow to enjoy being inside it. As the owner of three Chihuahuas myself, I frequently find my Chis hiding in their crates even with they are allowed to roam the house free.

The reason why crates are such an effective potty-training tool is because you can confine them to it anytime you’re unable to watch them. Instead of “hoping” your Chihuahua doesn’t use the bathroom inside the house, you can rest assured knowing they are safely confined to their crate. Naturally, most Chihuahuas won’t use the bathroom in the same crate where they sleep and rest. If they have to use the bathroom, they will try to hold it until you let them outside. This works in your favor, as it lets your Chihuahua develop the skills necessary to hold their pee until you take them outside. Just remember to never leave a Chihuahua in a crate for long periods of time.

References:

https://www.aspca.org/news/house-training-your-dog-or-puppyhttp://pets.thenest.com/potty-train-teacup-chihuahua-3559.html

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-potty-train-your-dog-or-puppy

Comments

    • Lotacha
    • August 26, 2021
    Reply

    I have a 15 weeks old chihuahua and a 9 weeks old chihuahua. The oldest is housebroken to puppy pads that she picked up quickly. I’m having difficulty get the younger one housebroken. How can I get her housebroken? She is only 1.2 pounds and I don’t take her outside.

    • Sheree
    • December 13, 2020
    Reply

    I just read that when you get a new puppy every time you take it out to go to the bathroom you have a little bell jingle bells tied together that you ring before you go out and once the dog does his business you come inside and praise it etc. and overtime I’ve heard that if you hang these jingle bells at a height they can nudge them with their noses this is a way for them to let you know that they need to go out because they learn to associate the sound of the jingle bells with going potty outside. I just got my seven week old puppy yesterday so I haven’t tried this method but she already goes on a Per pad. But I would rather not have a P pad in my house constantly my goal is to get her to go outside and go to the bathroom I don’t know maybe this might work worth a shot!

      • Clayton
      • January 27, 2023
      Reply

      How well did the bells work for you?

    • Debbie Morse
    • September 23, 2020
    Reply

    I have a year old Chihuahua I had him totally broke he would use a pad whenever he was in the house if he wasn’t outside he’d go poop or pee on that pad now he will not poop on the pad he pees outside and he can be outside for hours upon hours and never go poop outside what can I do he will not poop on the Pad poops on my carpet

    • Nikki
    • June 1, 2020
    Reply

    Hi
    My two Chihuahuas are 2 yrs old, they pea and poo at night, I’ve tried everything from taking food away early, no water late, access to the garden until midnight, and crating just meant they soil their bedding; I get up around 5:30 am and this is every night of the week. Had dogs all my life and never had these issues. It’s affecting my relationship with them. Really considering keeping them in the old shed at the bottom of the garden now.

      • Vicky
      • October 20, 2020
      Reply

      I don’t no where you live but chihuahua get cold very quickly.
      And winter in a shed is going to be hell for them.
      In fact could make them very sick .
      Ask yourself if you could stay in the shed all week long.
      If you simply can’t cope anymore better to send them to a re homing centre .
      Because if they go in the shed there simply poop all over that .
      There people dogs ,pls don’t put them down the shed as they don’t understand what they have done wrong .
      Sending you hugs from me and my chihuahua ,who btw just pooped by the back door 🤣

      • Nancy
      • November 11, 2020
      Reply

      Hello there,

      I was just wondering how your Chihuahuas are doing. I am going through a difficult training period with my Chi. I try to take her out regularly but no luck. I love her dearly and find that including her in my everyday activities and errands out of the house seems to help her to focus better on training and overall behavior. Please think about the shed again. I think this social breed would be lonely for you. Consider a playpen for them…it might help! Good luck!

        • Nikki
        • December 29, 2020
        Reply

        Nice to see so many dog lovers here, I’d put the kids in the shed before my dogs if I’m honest. They still have the occasional mishap but it seems the dirty protests have ceased. A lot of work and a few yells here and there. They are crated 10:30pm – 7am and no accidents for a few months now, even slept in until 8:30am and they had no accident. So yes all good and the relationship is back on track. Much love y’all x

      • Cassandra
      • October 22, 2021
      Reply

      Did you ever figure it out! My parents have two of the worst chihuahuas they mark everything pee and poop everywhere no where is off limits. She puts out the training pads and they choose when and when not to use them. I had to dogsit and felt terrible this was the life my mom was living so Anyone with any help!!

    • Dan J
    • March 18, 2020
    Reply

    I have a 5 yo Chi is housebroken again but my problem is twofold. One, he tends to want to go after bigger dogs, and they usually back away amazingly , but I cannot seem to get him to realize most dogs will be his friend. And play. And if he is around the dog for a bit, he suddenly gets playful once he feels he is in control. But it’s the initial charge I cannot get him to ignore obey me.
    The other thing is, oddly enough for a Chi, he loves kids, especially babies on up, but snarls at teen men on up, especially in uniform or anything resembles a uniform. Especially mailmen, he goes besets at them. Since I got him as rescue from a friend in SD, (I am in Midwest) I can only assume he must have maybe been abused by someone in a uniform.
    But after 4+ years, I still can’t get him to be friendly. I have him as a service dig(comfort) legally;) but it’s hard to take him with me as he is pretty good usually but if some gentleman or teen up I guess, he will snap at them. Anyone has any idea how to get him past this, let me know please. Probably partially my fault, I am retired, disabled and we didn’t get many visitors and he wasn’t around lot people or dogs etc. but any ideas be appreciated. Thank you Dan

    • Tori
    • January 19, 2020
    Reply

    I cant get my 2 year old chihuahua to poop outside for the life of me

      • Shawn Patrick Gallagher
      • March 8, 2022
      Reply

      I have 2 chi’s (3-7) and a Chorkie (15) they get along very well although the chorkie tends to avoid them probably due to his age.
      I cannot house Break the 3 year old, I am retired and walk them every 2 hours all day and stay up until midnight- he still finds time to go somewhere, somehow most days ! I had no problems w the others (they were much longer than large dogs I’ve had- but expected). I plan to get two more rescue chi’s, both under a year. Is there any reason why I shouldn’t ?? I understand I’ll be starting over w the bathroom issues – which sucks – but the live I receive from them outweighs it. Any other issue ? Or reason why not ? Thanks!!!
      They are truly my very best friends

      • Shawn Patrick Gallagher
      • March 8, 2022
      Reply

      To add – (I posted I have 2 chis and an older chorkie and May adopt to more young chis) –
      I live on a quiet street and have a large grass yard/ I was able to train all the dogs to stay on the property and they don’t waiver form that ever —
      So I assume w two more I can slowly do the same —

    • Scott
    • November 28, 2019
    Reply

    Neuter, even unneutered female chihuahuas sent mark. Stick to crate training if not around or cannot watch the whole time. Also bleach, disinfectant will not get rid of the pee smell. You need to buy a scent remover, most good petshops stock this and wash what ever they have been peeing on in it, floors, sofas, duvets, beds, crates etc. and carry on with the routine and positive reinforcement. Consistency, routine, neutering and scent remover is key. If not you may as well throw in the towel.

    • Angel
    • October 22, 2019
    Reply

    Hey I’ve just gotten a chihuahua and he is 4 months old he keeps on peeing in the house so I show him it and tell him off “saying no that’s for bad boys” but when he is needing he isn’t showing or telling me I take him out for pee pees and he still does a pee or poo in the house what should I do to help with this situation many thanks angel

    • Gabriella Steele
    • April 22, 2019
    Reply

    Hi, I have a 1-year-old Chihuahua Male and ever since I got him he has went to the bathroom in my house. Should I crate him but the only thing to that is that I live in a huge house or will it still work? What should I do?

    • Danielle
    • February 27, 2019
    Reply

    i have 3 6month old chiweenie sisters. for the most part they will go on puppy pads i have in bathroom and occasionally when i take them outside. I started crate training them, kinda, I feed them their dinner in their crate. If i decide to close the crate 2 of them don’t seem bothered but the 3rd, smallest of the three flips out. they have had full roam of house and 95% go on the pads. now for no reason, the 3rd poops on my bed pees on the bed in spare bedroom carpet in living room. ill see her sniffing around and take her to the pads and she will try and wait me out till im distracted and go where she wants to go.

    • Maye
    • October 10, 2018
    Reply

    Hi, when I crate my 15 weeks old chihuahua to potty training her, she starts to cry and she doesn’t pee, she holds herself. What can I do???

      • Danielle
      • October 18, 2018
      Reply

      I have a 6 week chi..and have chosen to crate train in a different way. I want her to go potty indoors, using a litter box, with potting or top soil as the litter. she is in a large canvas covered dog crate. with her potty, bed, food and water bowls, and toys inside. for the very most part, she does use her potty, and I have only had her a few days. I use a folded top sheet on the bottom ..and can wash it every couple of days. she has everything she needs, and is safe and cozy in her little “condo”. soil is more natural to a dog than cat litter or paper pads. after a while..she will get access to my full bedroom with a bigger litter box. Hopefully when she is grown..she will get full main floor access with a handy placed large potty box 🙂

        • Jennifer
        • December 29, 2018
        Reply

        Danielle has this worked for you. I have a 5 yr old Chihuahua that I got from an old lady that just let her go anywhere she wants. She has never been outside. I take her outside and literally has no idea what to do. I would like to try this method if it has worked for you. But I also can’t imagine her not being by my side and put in a pen. But I also don’t want to give her up.

          • Genevieve
          • December 26, 2019
          Reply

          I litter box trained my previous chihuahua. I did this by confining her to my small bar area with newspaper on the floor. Every day I would reduce the area covered by newspaper until only her litter box would have newspaper and she went in the litter box. I kept the. Red paper in the litter box for a few days and she then would use the litter. Keep in mind I had litter in the litter box under the paper the whole time. She would only pee in the litter box though. If anyone has any suggestions about getting them to poo in the litter box I would love to hear the suggestions because they hate to go out in the cold and especially the rain.

          • Dan.
          • March 18, 2020
          Reply

          I also have a 5 to Chiq. Name Hiro. And he was house broken when I got him at 6 mos. but 2 yrs. later my niece moved in with a lab/mastiff mix. Huge 120 lb dog male. It started peeing in house, and so being male, the domination thing started and Hiro Started peeing over his:( I finally told my niece either dog went or both. She moved out but even tho I had carpet professionally cleaned, scents still there. I finally just sold the house.
          So since then we walk at least a mile, twice a day st least and he lives for his walks. He gets mad at me if we miss walks, unless it’s raining hard or high winds. He hates both. But it has taught him again he does not use house for potty area. We now share house with a German shepherd (female) and two cats. He dies great and of course, dominates the big shepherd. Too funny how big dogs bow to him. Long story but daily walks do well to train outside potty and at first, kennel yours anytime you catch them potty inside (after taking outside ). Firmly say bad dog and no each time b4 putting in kennel for at least hour or two. They learn quickly. Hiro did in 3 days. And of course praise them and treat them for doing it outside.:). Good luck Dan

        • Lily Mann
        • October 4, 2020
        Reply

        Hi Danielle,
        I was wondering if you had any success with litter training your chihuahua? I’ve just bought a litter tray for mine as we live in a 3rd floor flat and are struggling to get her downstairs in time so she keeps peeing on the rug. Any advice on how to even beginning training her to use the tray?
        Thanks,
        Lily

      • Chris
      • January 31, 2019
      Reply

      We rescued a 9 week old chi-mix spayed female a year ago. Not our first dog. She is a darling dog most of the time but seems to have lapses with potty training. Have followed all the advice from our vet and websites. Worst is that she sometimes eats her poop. Vet says to pick it up quickly which we do. we are retired and home most of the time so it’s easy to catch her. But this inconsistency is very difficult to tolerate since over the years our doggie pals have never had this problem. She is crated at night and when we do out with no problem. Really at our wits end.Always thought of ourselves as very capable doggie owners. Hope someone can help.

        • Vera
        • May 16, 2022
        Reply

        I used to have that problem.. two of my Chis started eaten their own poop, my vet recommended a product, but he explained one of the causes is an imbalance of enzymes in their digestive system… so i gave them a spoonful of bulgur milk for a couple of days… it took care of the problem. For a couple days their poop came out a little runny and weird, but it sort of cleaned them up! Now they are fine! poop back to normal, and only once in a while they attempt to eat it… but its more of a behavioral issue and its resolved by picking up their feces in time…

    • Yoli
    • September 20, 2018
    Reply

    I have a 3 year old female chihuahua. she pee’s in her cage, on her blankets, in her bed and anywhere else in the house, she also poops in the hall way. I really love her but I am afraid if she doesn’t stop I wont be able to keep her. Please help!!!! I don’t know what to do.

      • Linda Kimbell
      • February 25, 2019
      Reply

      I have a full grown dog who is on prednisone and has accidents a lot. Even Thai use pee pads. Maybe diapers are the answer. Please find a good home that the people don’t care if the dog poos and pees every where. My beautiful hardwood floors are ruined in certain areas but I will keep my dog and love her as long as I am alive. To each their own. A dogs’ love is unconditional too bad humans don’t feel the same. Best wishes in whatever you decide.

      • Ali
      • May 16, 2020
      Reply

      Doggie diapers have saved my house and my sanity!
      I buy the washable ones and if she doesn’t go potty when we take her outside, the diaper goes on til we try again…has been the best thing I ever bought since I have started to have chi’s in my life!

    • Dee Dee
    • September 4, 2018
    Reply

    I got a Chihuahua at 6 weeks old. He is now 5 months old. I take him out to potty and he was doing great but now he goes out to sniff and do nothing and when he is let back in, he goes potty in the house. I am about ready to pull my hair out.

      • Angela D Farmer
      • January 3, 2020
      Reply

      My Chi is about 8 weeks, and I’m about to go crazy!!! I’m trying to train her to puppy pads, due to the hawks outside, and she’s a teacup I’m afraid to take her out. I thought I was doing good until she started going under my bed pooping and peeing. I’ve tried everything. What is an effective way to train her on the puppy pads?

    • Emily
    • August 27, 2018
    Reply

    My rescue female puppy was IMPOSSIBLE to train. The only thing that’s starting to work is doing crate-training religiously. I only did it partly in the beginning so it didn’t have much impact. You have to commit to it 100% for it to work.

    This is how I’ve gotten the situation to improve….. In the morning, I don’t let her feet touch the ground (she sleeps next to me on the bed no problem during the night). I take her straight outside, if she doesnt do anything, I feed her breakfast, crate her for 30 mins, then try again. If she still doesnt go, I crate her again until she is ready to finally go outside. The same after each meal. She only gets to play and come out of the crate after she’s done her business. I go really hard on the weekend and during the week if I can get time off. If you can get someone to watch them during the day if you’re working, and stick to the crate training it will help too.

    Was so close to returning her to the shelter, so glad I didn’t. Hang in there everyone, it can get better. They’re so damn stubborn, but you have to be more stubborn than they are 😀

      • Kimmy
      • January 10, 2020
      Reply

      I am currently doing the exact same tactic with my now 11 month old chi. She is quite the stubborn one I must say, but I’m hanging in there. I think one thing that does not help is at the moment there’s always someone home so a potty schedule has not stood. She hasn’t developed those muscles still. I brought her in and made the mistake of instead putting her into her crate I’d give her free roam of her playpen. 2 minutes later, she pooped on the floor. I had, had her out for 20 minutes which provided enough time for her to go. Now we are going back to the basics again and extending times between going out, after the first time she poops that is. Stubborn

      • teresa oakes
      • March 2, 2020
      Reply

      I’m going through the same thing and I love him but I’m ready to take him to the pound I have had him since he was 4 weeks old he is now 3 months old I just cannot get him house broken

    • Lynn
    • May 2, 2018
    Reply

    Just can’t imagine “spanking” a puppy, or any dog…they don’t understand corporal punishment so that’s just cruel. A stern “No!” (Not screaming, not yelling) is enough for them to get that you’re displeased, and if you catch them AFTER the fact, well, I don’t know if they, especially puppies who are just LEARNING the ropes, can’t know what they are being scolded for!

    • Cherie
    • April 28, 2018
    Reply

    Hi there, I have a one year old chihuahua who we had when she was six months. She knows to ask to go outside to pee, but she doesn’t like wet or cold weather. Despite putting her outside regardless, she will refuse to pee outside in that weather. But as soon as she is let back in, she will go and pee in the house. If it was just on the floor, I would cope, but she will pee on the sofas, cushions, even my bed!!! I am sick of buying new duvets and washing the sofa. Please can you help?

      • Dan J
      • March 18, 2020
      Reply

      Mine would not go out in rain or cold wet windy times either. Then one day, We we’re outside having a cig and talking about ways to put roof over patio and all sudden, Hiro was at my side sniffing around. And then went potty! I realized if I was out there with him, he would go. He doesn’t mind snow, tho. So now if it’s raining or cold wet stuff, I put on a coat, put his rain coat on, and out we go. He is happy as can be. He does find right spot lot faster in cold wet stuff but as long As I am with him, he is good to go. Might try it with yours;). Dan J

    • Amand a
    • April 17, 2018
    Reply

    I have a 2-3 year female unfixed chi. Who pees in the house every night. I’m at my breaking point she’s got lots of pee pads and is let out multiple times a day and late at night with the other 2 dogs. We just bought a brand new home and she’s starting to ruin our brand new carpet that’s ive already had to clean twice and it freaken reaks of piss. The only other thing i can Think of is to lock her in a bathroom or the laundry room by herself (because i wouldn’t punish the other 2 who do their business outside) or send her to a rescue or give her back to my husbands mom and dad and have her spend her life as an outside dog with limited human contact.

      • Susan
      • August 5, 2020
      Reply

      I’m in the same position, moved into a brand new home, dog pees on the floor or carpet after I let him out. It seems to me that for 2-3 years nobody cared where your dog peed and it became a habit for her to just go as she wanted. It can be hard to break a habit so deeply ingrained but if you can you will have a friend for life. Have you tried crate training? I’ve just started this myself as I’ve been told it’s the best way, if you look online and make sure you put crate training for Chihuahuas because they are trained a bit differently than the usual dogs you will likely find a good guide. I hope this helps and don’t give up on her, you are likely one of the few people that care about this little dog who desperately needs your help to find her way into a normal life.

    • Brenda
    • April 16, 2018
    Reply

    I just got an 11 week old Chihuahua and she won’t walk outside. She just sits down and shakes. HELP PLEASE SUGGESTIONS?

      • MaryMargaret Morrissey
      • August 23, 2018
      Reply

      Puppies are like that, especially chihuahua puppies, they shake all the time as she gets a little older she’ll become more active she’s probably really scared

      • Rebecca
      • September 8, 2018
      Reply

      Try using a crate big enough for your chi to move in. I have crate trained my chis to use a specific crate just for potty training. They hate the outside in winter and this helps we’ll. I use newspaper to line it and change frequently.

        • Connie Curran
        • March 30, 2019
        Reply

        That is a really interesting idea have one crate and maybe put the litter box in there for the bad weather days. I am going to try that because my 8mos old male throws a tantrum in bad weather. Thank you!

      • Kevin
      • March 1, 2020
      Reply

      Pick her up, re-assuuring her that It’s okay, then put her down outside. It’s just unfamiliar territory. She’ll get used to it.

    • Remy
    • April 6, 2018
    Reply

    I have a close to 3 year old chihuahua named Creepy he isnt potty trained in the slightest no matter how hard i try.. he only pees on my side of the at the bottom corner and near the door or at my desk he is very protective of me not even letting my children near me so i dont know if maybe he marking my spots that i frequent my husband is concerned creepy is ruining the house so i really need some kinda help if any one has any ideas.. Creepy has serious separation anxiety issues but if i dont get this issue solved i will have no choice but to send him to a new home… but i fear he will die from being away from me

    • Lindsay
    • February 10, 2018
    Reply

    Took about a year but my chi will go pee on command outside. Every time (it was exhausting) she went pee on neighborhood walks I’d say “good potty!” Over and over again. Now I bring her out and tell her to go potty and I won’t let her back in until she tries. I also was consistent and walked her the same time every morning, noon, when getting home and before bed. She started understanding that these times were potty times.

    the problem is she occasionally (about 1/month) has a pee or poo accident in the same spot in the house. After cleaning it I have started putting her blankets over there and since she’s associated it with sleep she’s stopped. But every now and then she’ll try to pee somewhere new. And it’s always on the carpet. I’m considering doing the crate now. I was hoping to not have to start that training but these dogs are crazy! I don’t ever think she’ll be able to be fully potty trained without it which is annoying bc these dogs are supposed to be smart.

    • Victoria
    • February 5, 2018
    Reply

    I adopted a 7 yr old Chawawa mix from the shelter a week ago. She is crate trained and can hold her bladder all night. She now sleeps with me at night without any problems. However she will pee and poop in the house and outside. Trying to take her out every hour and giving treats when she goes outside. Any other suggestions?

      • Erika
      • June 2, 2018
      Reply

      I’m in a similar situation. We adopted a 7 year old chihuahua this week. She is still learning about us and her new home, however we learned quickly she has to be taken out every couple of hours throughout the night to avoid accidents in the house. Did you find anything the worked yet? Looking for suggestions so we can get some sleep.

        • Deborah
        • October 8, 2019
        Reply

        I looked after a ten year old dog who goes to the toilet outside regularly. It worked a treat the young pup follows her every move. Now we have the odd accident but he’s usually good and will go outside. Just get rid of any rugs, they think it’s grass and will go potty on it

          • Terri
          • October 13, 2022
          Reply

          I have a 11 week old Chiweenie, I got her at 6 weeks old, she was already introduced to peeing and pooping outside or on Astrograss inside by the breeder.
          I would take her outside and say go pee and she would do it, but would still have accidents in the house, I bought some washable puppy pads and they work great so now she goes outside and inside on her pads, one for pee and one for poop. She still has an occasional accident but it’s so much better.

    • Violet
    • December 15, 2017
    Reply

    I have a 6 month old chi, he isn’t potty trained at all, and I have been letting him do his buisness whenever and wherever in the house (bad choice I know) but as he got older I’ve been trying to take him out more. I have no money for puppy pads or kennels so any advice on how to train him to go on newspaper maybe or how he can tell me when he needs to go outside? I don’t want to lose him because he is the most precious guy ever . I need help, open to anyadvice !!!

      • BrookeC.
      • January 18, 2018
      Reply

      First of all, keep in mind your dog has established that it is OK to potty indoors. Even without a crate, you can confine your dog to a small area in the home at night and when you’re gone. It’s highly improbable that the dog would potty in the same place he is confined to if it’s barely big enough for turn around movement.

      Still, it’s your responsibility to take the dog out regularly and minutes the water consumption. Perhaps limit the night water intake just in the hour before bed time, the same you would do for a child. Always make sure they are hydrated though.
      Lastly – the smell of urine can linger much longer than the wet spot stays visible. The carpet pad gets wet, and urine is known to soak into tile grout as well. It should not be a condition you accept for yourself or your pet. Make it your top priority to potty train the dog. We all have memories of the people we visited and when we walked in, hit a wall of animal urine. Even after you get used to it, your friends won’t.

      • Jordin
      • April 22, 2018
      Reply

      I say when you take out you chi, you should say “go potty” and eventually they will learn that when you say “go potty” they will know it’s time to go outside.

    • Dee
    • December 10, 2017
    Reply

    I have a one and a half year old Chi. She is pad/box trained (due to long work days and the fact that she travels with me & stays in hotels. She will also go outdoors), but when she is not gated in a certain area of the house with her pad, she insists on sometimes pooping off the pad in the same couple of spots in the house. She does not pee off of the pad, just poops. Any suggestions for correcting this behavior? She’s really smart and trains easily, but this has been a source of challenge and frustration.

      • Ashley Allen
      • July 9, 2018
      Reply

      Did you ever get replies to this. Sounds just like my girl. I just don’t get it.

    • Kathey Traylor
    • December 7, 2017
    Reply

    My chi is pretty much potty trained, she will ask to go out but my problem is I’m trying my best to crate train her and she pees in it every time. I don’t know how to get her to stop. I know she can hold it when I’m at work because I’ve seen her do it. I don’t know what else to do or any ideas?! I also come home on my lunch break so it doesn’t feel like it’s that long for her.

    • Davie
    • November 29, 2017
    Reply

    Hi, we have two new Chi pups (12 weeks old) Our problem is it’s far too cold outside to let them out the house, we are happy to train them to use puppy pads / pee mats indoors but we are having a very low success rate at the moment, we do not crate the dogs at night or when they are left alone, we have them in a small room with their beds, blankets & puppy mats, any tips on how to improve our success rate would be greatly appreciated…

      • Phyllis Salser
      • December 31, 2017
      Reply

      Cover the floor in pee pads. After a week or 2 they will pick an area to use so you can put only 1 or 2 pads down in that spot.

      • Vanessa
      • July 8, 2018
      Reply

      We have two 10 week old chis. We actually have three pens for them. One is actually a baby pen( where the top is open). The baby pen you can form in any shape and buy extra panels to make it bigger. We put puppy pads at an end and at the other food/ water and their bed with toys. They use the puppy pads. We also take them out often to the back yard. They will pee and poop quick in the house if we just let them run loose though. Good luck.

      • Terri
      • October 13, 2022
      Reply

      You can get the spray to put on the pads that entices them to pee there, or put some of their pee or poop on their pad and 20 min. After they eat put them on the pad and say go potty, stay ther with them until they go or try again in 5-10 min. They get distracted very easily.

      If they go pee say good dog you went pee, the touch their butt and say go poop , stand there but don’t watch them, they will go in a circle or two and then poop, tell them good dog you went pee and poop, they then get two small treats one for pee and one for poop.
      If they just do one potty they get 1 treat.

      Get really excited and hug and kiss them, you will have them going and then running to you so proud!

    • Rmont
    • November 4, 2017
    Reply

    I am potty training a little chi right now. Like my other two, I have a baby-gated bathroom with her extra bed and pee pads. This is the only area she goes in when I can’t supervise her. All other times she is on a harness and leash attached to my ankle or if I am running around the house, she is in a back pack. It is a lot easier if they don’t ever get a chance to pee in the house, ever. I let her outside every two hours-no exceptions. She follows the older chi’s. If I am away, I have a pet sitter let her out. They have always been out every four hours with me or a pet sitter. I just shortened up her schedule with the new girl. Perseverance pays off!

    • Medusa
    • October 5, 2017
    Reply

    My Chihuahua is having an odd issue when it comes to going outside lately. I feel something outside may have scared her.

    She will not leave the doorstep at all anymore. In fact getting her outside to pee is nearly impossible. She pees in the house though, however.

    She used to be good about peeing. Why is this?

    I can stand there or sit there for over ten minutes telling her to go peepee so she could get treats. She just stared and stood there doing nothing.

    My grandmother does not believe anything is wrong, and that she is just the “alpha dog”, so she has to look at her surroundings. She usually pees on a mat by the porch doorstep, and my grandmother claims it is because “it smells”.

    We do have a dog who died and is buried in the yard, and this started a month after our beagle was buried.

    Any ideas on what to do?

    • Dorothy
    • October 1, 2017
    Reply

    Never spank or hit any dog Use a crate, take out after naps, play, meals. And having a male neutered or a female spayed helps tremendously. If you can’t watch your Chi, crate. As soon as you take her/him out, carry straight to your yard. No playing. As soon as he/she pottys, praise and bring in. Being consistent is the key. 3months or a year, do this every few hours until he/she gets it. The shelters are full of Chi’s & many are euthanized because they were never properly potty trained.

    • linda
    • September 16, 2017
    Reply

    i have a 3 year old chihuahua i just got 5 days ago from the shelter…i am trying to potty train her but she refuses to go outside she will smell she will walk arounf and she will try to sit or lay down. i have he in a crate while i am gone but she ends up going potty inside her crate that is only big enough for her it is not an over sized crate…can you please help me what can i do… specially to stop her from going potty inside her crate that has a blanket

      • Hannah Gibson
      • January 2, 2018
      Reply

      I just rescued a 5 month old chihuahua puppy and am having the same experience his goes outside sniffs around walks around a bit or seems so cold or scared of outdoors. Have you had any success with this since your post?

        • Shelly
        • July 24, 2018
        Reply

        Just rescued a Chi/Terrier cross. Same problem, when take outside to do her business she shakes, looks scared. Won’t do her business. Has peed and pood in house, so I took the pee and poo paper towel and rubbed in grass that I want her to go. Any other suggestions?

        • Emily
        • August 27, 2018
        Reply

        Any joy? I’m in the exact same boat. I’ve trained so many other dogs, no problem, but I’m losing my mind with this one. She will not pee/poop outside. Will not respond to crate training. Holds it in for hours and hours if she has to, refuses to go outside, only pees/poops when l I give in and let her out of the crate (I feel bad keeping her in there too long).

        I’m losing my mind. Don’t want to have to take her back to the shelter. She’s impossible.

    • rose newlon
    • July 13, 2017
    Reply

    My dog will not pee or poop outside only use pads she’s 8 months now what is an answer?

      • Mik
      • July 31, 2017
      Reply

      Find justin boldoni on facebook her dog training tips can make your dog do many things just in few days.

    • marilyn
    • June 29, 2017
    Reply

    are Chihuahuas free???

    • Brenda Rawson
    • June 10, 2017
    Reply

    I have a very healthy & happy 10 year old chi. We rescued her 8 years ago. I am wanting to get a second chi. Either young adult or puppy (female short hair). Our big girl is house broken with a rare pee puddle. We have a doggie door & a fenced yard. I missed the puppy experience with Sassy & would love to have it. Possible problem: U am on dialysis during the night while sleeping & would not be able to take pup out during the night. Husband could do this, but since he doesn’t think we need another chi he would be a grump about it. Although he would do it. My question is will I be fighting a losing battle getting a pup. Also would pup learn quicker by being around Sassy who is trained. We are firm believers in crate training. Should a new dog be in a separate crate at first????

      • Cara Davenport
      • July 16, 2017
      Reply

      I was recently given a 9 month old Chihuahua and he was never trained the woman who had him just assumed clean it however when I got him he was kept in a crate where there was old poop Caked Up in the corners and all over the blanket that was in there my fear is that even though I have another dog that can show him it’s not okay to go to the bathroom in the house the crate is not going to work because I believe it was used overbearingly in his last residence? I don’t keep him in the crate when he pees on the floor or poops on the floor I put him in it to show him that he did something wrong but he’ll go outside for hours and will pee outside but will not poop outside should I take the poop in a paper towel and put it outside so that he smells his own feces outside? Please help me it took me a while to train my first dog and I do not want that dog to go backwards because of the Chihuahua now peeing and pooping in the house..

        • HappyMom88
        • August 28, 2017
        Reply

        Great job, Keep it up. They can be stubborn little things. Try bringing it out like you are doing first thing in the morning after crating all night. Give it extra time to pee and poop. If it doesn’t poop, then feed it in its crate with door latched shut. As soon as it is done eating, take it out again and wait. If it still hasn’t pooped, don’t allow back inside. I would suggest taking it on leash for a walk in neighborhood. Some dogs need a little extra exercise to defecate. I hope this helps. Let us know how things are going.

    • Sheri
    • May 25, 2017
    Reply

    I’ve recently adopted a little chihuahua shih tzu mix, lover her so much but she is a little stubborn about potty time. I take her out often and many leave her out in the backyard to run with the other dogs and to do her business and unless i’m watching her I never know if she goes or not, then after a while I bring her in and she immediately pees on the floor.. so frustrating. She is also very quick as well, so most times I don’t see that she’s made a mess until its too late. I have been taking her out to go potty when we wake up in the morning, and sometimes I hear her barking in the night and take her out (I learned my lesson and don’t ignore the bark) last time I did she peed on the bed. I do have one spot I take her to in the yard were she consistently will do her business, she also likes to go on the lawn.

      • Kane Shi-Chi
      • November 11, 2017
      Reply

      Hi, Sheri, I’m Kane. I’m nearly one year old. I’m also a Chihuahua-Shih Tzu mix. I was given to a shelter when I was ten months old.
      My new family brought me home 2 weeks ago today. On the drive home, I pooped on my new Daddy! I also poop in the house. I’ve never pooped outside, but I am learning to pee out there (I get a delicious treat that Mommy makes each time I pee outside).
      The problem is that none of us know how to get me to poop outside.
      But I feel better knowing I’m not the only little ShiChi who is stubborn about potty time. Not that I think it will make Mommy any less frustrated…..

    • Jennifer
    • May 21, 2017
    Reply

    I have to take ours out like once an hour to start out with even.if he didnt go i would stay with him and tell him “go potty” and he would if he had to we did that for the first week i was leaving him out of his kennel at night and i was having to take him out a couple times a night but now he goes in his kennel at 11pm til 6am without any accidents ive have never been successful at training any dog but i want to thank u cuz following ur instructions we have been accident free for awhile now but we still go out at leaat every couple hours our adult chi wants out every couple hrs too

      • HappyMom88
      • August 28, 2017
      Reply

      Some dogs will see outdoor time as play time. Until your new pet has gained your confidence and learns that outdoors is for eliminating and not playing, I would suggest monitoring her activity outside. Once you are satisfied she has done her duty, give her a reward and bring her in. Don’t allow her to run around yet. She is a small dog that will get enough exercise by running around and playing indoors.

    • Julie howarth
    • May 21, 2017
    Reply

    I have two chihuahuas and no matter what i do they still poo and pee in the house . They pee on anything

      • Tracie
      • June 26, 2017
      Reply

      Hi I have 2 also that pee and poo anywhere ..I understand your frustration lol iv tried the sturn No !! They just wag there tail there now 6 months ..let’s hope it stops eventually 😀

        • Stephanie
        • December 9, 2019
        Reply

        I have 3 long haired chis and have short haired also. I have never had a problem with them peeing or pooping in the house. My females have had litters and I put them directly on newspapers when mama is done nursing & they are on solid food. One I just showed her and put her on the paper and said this is where you pee and poop that’s exactly what she did. It was amazing but not all are that easy. These guys are very stubborn but I found that when I start taking them out to pee and I stand there with them they feel much safer and comfortable. I also take them out more often than a few hours and whén I see thém sniffing around.
        My problem now is my 8byear old male. Since I moved in with a friend he won’t go to the bathroom outside. He actually stands at the patio door and doesn’t move even if I sit out there with him. She has a pit bull, a very huge one. I’m sure he smells him and can see his poop. But why would that make him not want to poop. He actually came inside and pooped on the carpet looked at me and walked away. I was in shock. What do I do? He’s gonna get sick if he doesn’t poop soon. It’s been 3 days. Pretty close to impossible to walk him every time.

      • HappyMom88
      • August 28, 2017
      Reply

      How old are they? Are they spayed/neutered? If not, that can also cause marking of territory. Make sure you crate train your dogs in separate crates at night and during the day if working or close them off in a small bathroom without a rug (leave puppy pad). Potty them outside first thing in AM and after eating, playing, and sleeping. Also take them out before bed at night. Don’t allow them to play outside unit they are doing their elimination outside and not in house. These are small dogs that do not require a lot of space to get their exercise. One can also walk them to give them a chance to eliminate which can also be seen as a reward for pets.

      • Emily
      • August 27, 2018
      Reply

      I just posted on how I’ve gotten my pup to improve…you have to crate train them religiously. Not let them out until they’ve done their business outside. It works, you just have to stick at it. Good luck <3

    • Angelina
    • April 12, 2017
    Reply

    Do I have to wake up in the middle of the night to let it use the restroom ? Or keep it as only in the morning night and after it eats ? Pls let me know

      • PAM
      • April 12, 2017
      Reply

      Mines will whine,bark or scratch to let me know that she has to use the bathroom in the middle of the night, she is 8weeks old just got her a couple days ago. GOODLUCK

        • Ray jr
        • May 3, 2017
        Reply

        Yeah right at 8 weeks old! Ha ha!

          • Crystal
          • October 5, 2017
          Reply

          I brought my chi home, he was only 6 weeks…he doesn’t pee in his crate and wines to go out at night…however during the day if I don’t monitor him while he is out, he will use the bathroom in the house!

            • Susan
            • August 5, 2020

            I’m not criticizing I promise, I don’t know where you got your puppy but they are supposed to stay with their mothers til at least 8 weeks old. He doesn’t know all that he has to do at the moment and his bladder is so small, he will likely need taking out every hour in the day time. I think it’s amazing that he at least whines to go out at night, you have a precious little boy.

    • E. Hoffmann
    • March 23, 2017
    Reply

    Never spank a Chihuahua. Use the fake grass. Take them outside in the morning and at night when home from work Good luck, you are going to need it.

    • Debbi
    • March 7, 2017
    Reply

    My 6 week old chihuahua is amazing! However, when I walk outside, he won’t move. He sits on my porch, and bites me if I pick him up! PLEASE HELP ME OR HE WILL BE BACK ON THE KILL LIST. I love him lots…😿

      • Pam
      • November 9, 2017
      Reply

      Are you kidding me you expect a puppy to be potty trained at six weeks old!!

    • Merrie
    • March 6, 2017
    Reply

    We have a 6 week old chi, vet says is very healthy. After reading all comments I think we are doing really well! We take her potty immediately when she wakes, and 20 minutes after she eats. We’ve had her a week tomorrow. Luckily, my daughter met her the day she was born and visited her daily so by the time the breeder told us to come get her, my daughter was her person. We didn’t want to take her sooner than 8 weeks but there were circumstances beyond our control and since she’s bonded to my daughter we felt like bringing her home was the best option of a bad situation. She likes people and doesn’t seem to miss her pack. Starting day one here, if she pottied inside we blotted it with a paper towel and took both her and the towel outside, had her sniff it and then put it on the ground and said potty. By day two she was going outside. By day three she was whining to go out. I learned the hard way not to say let’s go potty and put her down to walk to the door. She gets confused and pees inside when you do that. She doesn’t like treats so I just praise and Pat her. My daughter runs with her and plays in the leaves when she is a good girl but if she doesn’t go, no reward time. We matter of fact go back in and try again in a few minutes. I am handicapped so she is harnessed when I take her. It was hard to find our 2 lb baby girl a harness that fit but a guy at the pet store advised to use a ferret harness. medium fits her.
    Our problem is that she will sometimes pee in her crate even though that’s where she eats. I am worried that since she was too little when we got here that is why. We both work so we need to get it resolved and also need to know how to get her to the point where she can be alone without crying. How long is it supposed to take? Today left her home alone in the crate for the first time and she carried on so! Need advice for helping her like her crate!

      • Stephanie
      • April 3, 2017
      Reply

      We lost 2 of my babies. Nina was miniature pincher. (She was mama girl)
      She past away Nov 12,2016. I loved that Nina Polina. You are missed baby girl!
      You are in my prays.

      Then we lost Ryder Roo from seizures. He was having them 3-10 a day We tried seizure meds. But it did t work. At the end he was going after me and my hubby. He attack gihita (140 lb put she is mixed with pit/ Mastif ) and Ryder weight 7# so we talked to our vet and she said there’s not a life for him to live.
      Me and my husband agreed. I had the vet give Ryder a bath and his nails done. The lady at the check in. Told me Why would I pay for the shampoo and nails. I told her because I wanted him to know that his last breath. I was there. Mama really miss you (little Man)

      About a month after Nina pasted. Me and my daughter was driving from town and we saw puppy trying to eat road kill so they won’t starve. So I couldn’t stand by and watch what these babie survive on road kill. So my family got together and we adopted 5 apple head chihuahua’s – Sam got- coco
      Angel got- Jane
      Me got – Jack And Jill
      Bobbi – cant remember

      • HappyMom88
      • August 28, 2017
      Reply

      You are starting off great! Six weeks is still too young to hold bladder. I know your pet is older now. At about 4 months is when they START holding their bladder through the night or day. It should get easier as your pet gets older. Keep trying and let us know if it has gotten better.

    • Nicole
    • February 15, 2017
    Reply

    I have a 10 week old chihuahua and I’ve had her since she was 4 weeks! Her mommy quit feeding her way to early but I have treated her like the baby she is and she is very healthy, playful and sweet as can be. She shocked us when she picked up on the puppy pads so young but she did and used the good. Now she will not use a puppy pad for nothing! I don’t whip her when she uses the bathroom inside, I just tell her no in a firm voice and she hides. She knows she is doing wrong but dont use a pad for a treat or anything. I dont understand what went wrong. I now have a crate and she holds it while she’s in there and when she gets out uses it on the floor not her pad. Can someone please help me, I really don’t wanna get rid of her. We are attached to her and love her so so much. She has brought life back into our morkie and they play all the time. I wanna keep her but I don’t know what I’m doing wrong. I know its not her fault do I wanna fix whatever I’m doing wrong to help her!

      • Melba
      • February 24, 2017
      Reply

      Hey I have a 11 week old brown tri-colored chihuahua. When I got him he was 6 six weeks old as soon as he got home I lay the potty pad in front of his bed. When he wakes up from nap he goes straight to his pad because I point to it “Go pee pee or poop here”. He understands and I keep repeating the same cycle with him supervising him to keep repeating the same routine until he no longer needa to be supervise. Maybe that can help you if anything let me know!!

    • lori carthy
    • January 31, 2017
    Reply

    I have an 8 week old shih tzu chihuahua mix and I can not get him to potty outside I am not sure if it’s to cold or he gets distracted really easy please help I thought about litter training but if I travel with him then he will want to go indoors any advice thanks Lori

      • Andy Kuhn
      • February 5, 2017
      Reply

      The same things happen to me with my dogs. I have a teacup chihuahua, and a shih tzu yorkie mix. The ways I’m gonna tell you to potty train might actually work. I have tested it, and it does work.

      1. Take the dog outside on a leash.(unless he or she can walk off-leash) When you get outside, you’re gonna put a little pressure on the dog and push it around a little. Try not to hurt the dog, don’t push too hard.

      2. Do you have puppy pads? If you don’t, you should get them. If you have a small room in the house, put puppy pads all around the room. Don’t make it so the dogs can do their business right next to the pads. Cover the entire room with puppy pads. If you don’t have a small room, put a baby fence around it, unless you want to cover a bigger room with the puppy pads. Let your dog eat some food while you finish. When you have your space covered with puppy pads, take your dog in the room, and close the door. Leave them in there after 5 minutes. Nothing? Leave them in for another 5 minutes. If they only sit and cry, sit in front of the door, and make no noise. They will smell you, and know you’re with them.

      Hope this works on your dogs.

      • Debbi
      • March 7, 2017
      Reply

      Hey Lori, and yes, I’ve got advice. Try a grass mat, and outside. Grass mats are lots like ref. Pee pads, but have grass. Give it a shot! Np!

    • Rae
    • January 29, 2017
    Reply

    I rescued a two year old Chiweenie who started out very well with potty training, then fell of the wagon. I put a towel in the bathroom floor and then put her pee pads on it. When we arise in the morning, She is put in the bathroom until she pees or poops, then lavished with praise and a tasty treat. Then she gets her breakfast. If I can’t watch her like a hawk, she goes in the crate. After evening feeding, back in the bathroom she goes until she does her business. Before we go to bed, she stays in the bathroom until she goes. Otherwise, she is crated for the night. It didn’t take long for her to get a clue about her “rights” to my house. She is absolutely delightful! I have never had a chi, but she knew just how to wrap me around her little paw! 😉 Best of luck to everyone!

    • Casandra Hiscock
    • January 6, 2017
    Reply

    It’s – 35 Celsius here, so it’s to cold outside! I’m using pads and outside on warmer days! I can’t wait till it warms up!

    • Sara
    • December 20, 2016
    Reply

    I need to know how many hours that long hair Chihuahua can hold up bathroom since I got a new job that work from 11-8p since my daughter is with her dad for winter break.. I’m all home alone with my long hair Chihuahua

    let me know asap

      • Melba
      • February 24, 2017
      Reply

      4 hours maximum….I recommend you have him/her a training pad they are really helpful.

    • sarah
    • December 9, 2016
    Reply

    I have a female Chihuahua that has been using the bathroom inside after I bring her outside. She is not even 1 years old yet, and I have been trying different things and it never works.

    • Ari
    • November 4, 2016
    Reply

    I have two regular chihuahuas, two siblings, one boy and one girl. They just turned one in may and when I first got them around last October they had no problems going to bathroom outside and would have very few accidents but then they started going potty in their kennels when we would put them in there when we went out and now they go potty everywhere! They are outside a very good portion of the day and have enough time to potty but they still go potty inside! They even began to pee on my bed and I’m stuck on what to do. Please help.

      • Pam
      • April 26, 2017
      Reply

      Yes we are having the same issue with ours. They spend plenty of time outside 4 times a day at least but still will poop the minute they come into the house in a hidden place if I let them roam . Plus the male marks everywhere. I have tried everything, but these were rescued at 2 and 3 years old. The female is pretty good, but my little male is stinks most of the time since he’s a LH and always has pee on his fur. I need advice out of the box. I have him in a belly band when they are in the house and we change it about 6 times a day 🙁

    • Ashley
    • October 31, 2016
    Reply

    I have a chihuahua and she turned a year old in June I have got her to go pee outside but I can not get her to poop outside she is constantly popping on my children’s beds or blankets what can I do to get her to go outside ??

    • Chihuahua
    • October 13, 2016
    Reply

    Help!!!! My chihuahua will go all the time in my house he is 6 moths and still not potty trained how do I stop this bad behavior 😕

      • Laura
      • February 10, 2017
      Reply

      Crate crate crate! It really works!

        • Pam
        • April 26, 2017
        Reply

        Crate has worked for two of ours but for one female she still poops and pees almost every night even when we walk at midnight. Then she will eat her stool about 25% of the time. I know gross, but this one we raised from a pup, but did it from the time we got her at 7 weeks, and we’ve never been able to break this yucky habit. She’s now 3, and we call her the Pooper, she poops almost 5 times per day. I’ve owned dogs my whole life chihuahuas and terriers and this little pooper recycles her own. What does this mean? Help!

    • Evelyn
    • August 16, 2016
    Reply

    Hi,

    I have been a dog lover my whole life. I have had big dogs to be specific and never wanted a small dog. Only because I love to hug on my big pals. However some horrible person thought it would be ok to just leave 4 chis outside for someone to find. I immediately took the pups home and took then to a vet. Long story short I fell in love with a short haired chi named coco. My children and I have fallen for our new pup. Coco is about 10 weeks old and I can admit I’m lost. A mother of 5 children and a previous dog owner but when it comes to coco I feel like I’m getting everything wrong. Any tips on potty training other then the article? which were great just want as much info as I can. BTW don’t know which breed just that she’s a white smooth hair pup and she’s beautiful.

    • Liz
    • June 26, 2016
    Reply

    Hi I have 2 Chihuahuas a small miniature apple head and a normal Chihuahua my little boy Dog Scrappy is the Apple head I have no problems with him using the restroom when I take him outside I mean the whole time I’m out there from 25-45 mins he is peeing and pooping which is so awesome but my little girl the regular Chihuahua I can take her outside and she will not pee or poop I come back inside and she pees and poops I mean everywhere bug old poodles of pee and piles of poop and I have no idea how to make her go outside!! She is very timid and skittish cuz of some past issues in her life I rescued them, she is about 6 yrs old and he is 4 yrs old. She is super sweet and knows she does wrong because I get onto her and she get all scared and tucks her head and she will pee and poop again as I’m getting onto her for peeing and pooping in my house. I’m lost as to what to do she lives in her kennel mostly at night and when I’m not home but she peed one time in the kennel and now she will not pee inside or outside I’m very scared. I did just move like 3 days ago so it’s only been three days she has done this but I’m still scared she did good at my old house I finally got her trained when I had to move. Am I rushing her is she just trying to get used to her new surroundings or what. Please help me thank you.

      • Joanne
      • July 26, 2016
      Reply

      Coco is a beautiful 6 mth old. I can only sympathize with all your comments in house training your Chihuahua. It’s no easy task, and I cannot claim to have mastered it. Above all, try to be patient. Never scold or raise voice too loud – it could make the situation worse. Kindness and encouragement will win through… Good luck to you all x

      • Paul
      • September 29, 2016
      Reply

      I have two chihuahuas as well, one who was abused and had a shock collar placed on him so he was probably similar to what you’re dealing with. Don’t get discouraged, you just have to be very consistent and steadfast with your discipline and routines. Always take her to pee upon waking up and maybe even once in the middle of the night if you’re really having issues with her. You give her an over abundance of opportunities to pee outside and praise her excessively when she does. If she still has accidents, take her outside prior to scolding her and be aware of hand gestures etc. that could make her think you’re going to hit her, because it may bring up old trauma and scare her into peeing more (that’s why I said bring her outside prior to scolding her). If you keep it all consistent and regular eventually she will catch on. Just takes a bit of time and work.

      • Amanda
      • November 4, 2017
      Reply

      Did you receive an answer for this? My aunt has a rescued chi about 3years old and the dog will pee outside, and sometimes poops outside and on walks, but when she brings her in, she will poop inside. She knows she was wrong.

    • Sande
    • June 21, 2016
    Reply

    I am fostering a 5 month old discarded chihuahua, she is getting better but I also use pee pads. She will go pee indoors on carpet before she uses pee pads and even if I take her outside she still will come in and pee.
    I keep my shampooer ready ….but I didnt use treats so far just praise so I will add treats. See if that helps. She pretty thin so it shouldnt hurt her wieght.

    • Howard
    • April 26, 2016
    Reply

    I am in the process of training my Chihuahua. I treat like a baby or a todler. It has a structured time for almost everything. He sleeps in a crate at night , so in the morning first thing we go out for a walk and he does his business outside, second we limit him on how much water he takes in, not to keep him from being thirsty, but after a certain time at night he gets no more water. Same goes for food, we pull his food after a certain time also. I take him outside regularly so he can play and run and he relates this to bathroom time also. He has had a couple of “accidents” but for the most part he lets me know when he has to go and wants outside. Not a 100% full proof but it works for the most part. but remember you got to let him know your in control and not him.

      • Jena
      • August 18, 2016
      Reply

      I am in the same boat. Female chihuahua who will only go inside. They say dono use pads but what am I supposed to do, let her go all over my floor? I don’t think so. I’ve tried everything. And she will only pee on the pad sometimes and won’t poop on it. Only on the clean floor. I’m about to throw in the towel. Can’t stand much longer.

        • Bonnie
        • September 29, 2016
        Reply

        I am having the same problem with our new female puppy! She will go on the pad if my husband holds her there. Then she also goes on the floor shortly after again.

        • Torey
        • December 7, 2016
        Reply

        Try doggy litter and a litter pan.

        • Jess
        • December 14, 2016
        Reply

        If she uses the puppy pads, have you tried putting the puppy pads outside.? That’s what I did and my chi is 3 month old and I barely get an accident. (Still working on her crate toiletting though!!)

      • Jade
      • September 11, 2016
      Reply

      I rescued a 12 year old apple head chi about a year ago. He came to me totally un-potty trained. But here’s what’s helped me. Originally, I did the same by being firm and letting him know I wasn’t happy with him when he had “accidents” in the house. He is very emotional and can be very stubborn. Eventually, he trained me. The first thing we do when we get up is go outside. Rather than focusing on the bad, reward with the good. If you walk long enough your chi will eventually go to take a peeps. Try finding a spot where other dogs have gone, these are prime spots in the neighborhood that you will have the best chance of getting her to go. When she does, praise her. She may be afraid to do this action in front of you bc of her past. Praise and reward. This will give her the confidence she needs, and trust will be built. I also learned to drain his bladder took a good 25 seconds worth of peeps. Mine takes about a three second peep every time he goes, so I make sure he hits 8-10 spots before we go in. Also, my dog doesn’t like when people watch him go number 2. When I see him getting ready to do his poop dance I look away.i know I must sound nutty, but this is what’s helped me. Also, I can’t stress this enough – CONSISTENCY. Make sure you are being consistent with the timing. If you do this at the same times everyday- she will learn and begin telling you it’s time to go. We go 3x a day. 8am, 1pm, 7pm. Also, I feed my dog 15-20 mins before the 8am walk, and 7pm walk. Getting a good stride during a walk gets his metabolism and helps with #2’s. GOOD LUCK!!

    • Anna
    • April 9, 2016
    Reply

    I Got a chihuahua terrier cross puppy when it was barely 5 weeks. It had already been adopted out by an older couple and returned. When I went to choose a puppy I saw Nika and picked her up. She wrapped her paws around my wrist and refused to let go. She she claimed me at the moment I claimed her. 🙂 here is my trouble. I will let her out on a lead to potty and then back in when she is done. I think she gets distracted. This is because I can let her out and after I let her back in within a half hour she pees several large puddles and poops on my floors. It really urks me because she was just out. We have beautiful spring weather so there is really no excuse. Actually to be honest; she was better trained in the snow, tain, and wind. HELP!!! I won’t be able tikeep a dog that refuses to be trained. Regardless of attachment.

      • Ashlyn
      • April 12, 2016
      Reply

      I have a chi terrier mix as well. I try to stick to the kennel training, even though the sorry whining is hard. I let him out to go potty about 15 minutes after eating or drinking, and I wait outside until he goes potty. Sometimes, we will stand outside forever and he won’t go but the second we go inside we will go on the floor. I tell him No! And say potty outside and we stand outside for another 10 minutes with no praise after obviously no potty. I take him outside to the same spot too, which works! I think the older they get the more they comprehend so patience is key. They will pee and poop on the floor, but I find the key being to let them out around the same times you realize they usually do it on the floor. Immediately after playing, right after a nap, and after eating or drinking.

      • Lisa
      • July 29, 2016
      Reply

      Try diapers?

      • Darlene
      • August 18, 2016
      Reply

      I have a female deer head chi that will pee outside but poops inside in the bathroom. I take her out frequently and consistently at the same time each day and night but she will still go in the house. Here’s what I’ve been trying and have had some success. When I find her poop in the house I lightly scold her. Take a paper towel, gather the poop and throw it outside where she goes potty. This seems to be working as we haven’t had as many incidents. Good luck!

      • Vera
      • September 27, 2016
      Reply

      Hi
      I got a female she 9 weeks old peep pad trained.
      she need me all the time how can I get her to play with out me lol I got A pom 3 years old he will not play with her ??? help

      • Wanda
      • December 20, 2016
      Reply

      I have a 12 week shitzu mix and he refuses to use a pee pad but pees all over the house I have a another dog that uses the pads losing patient’s with him don’t want to get rid of him but I don’t want pee every where

    • Chelsea Ladd
    • April 9, 2016
    Reply

    I have a Chihuahua that is a little bit over a year and we thought we had him potty trained and just this week he has started peeing and pooping everywhere in the house. He is supposed to be using potty pads but it doesn’t seem to be working. My parents are getting fed up and might make me get rid of him!!! I need help, fast!!!

      • Courtney
      • May 1, 2016
      Reply

      Take him to the vet something may be wrong. I

      • Robyn
      • August 25, 2016
      Reply

      I have had dogs my whole life and rescued many from my experience Chihuahua’s are in their own class. I rescued a 2 yr old female two years ago. I found her a home and 8 months later they wanted to give her back. I want to keep her but I cant seem to get her potty trained. She has ruined my house. I have tried it all.

      To answer all your pee pee problem’s = Chihuahua’s do not like grass, to get their feet wet, to go in the same exact spot, to be yelled at, to be in a crate, kids, basically to be told what to do. They do like = long walks, frequent snacks, to be taken out every time they come up to you in the house! To have their own bed plus yours, to be the center of attention.

      THE ONLY WAY TO PREVENT A CHI FROM PEE-ING IN THE HOUSE IS TO TAKE THEM OUT “EVERY TIME” THEY COME UP TO YOU.” other wise they are very vindictive and will win.

      • Paul
      • September 29, 2016
      Reply

      I would pay attention to any recent change that could’ve caused the dog some anxiety. Moved? New person or dog in the house? These types of things can cause the dog to revert back to old behavior. If none of those things happened then I would just recommend using the crate when you’re gone and also using it to scold/train the pup.

    • Rachael
    • April 7, 2016
    Reply

    I have a 4 year old chihuahua who was diagnosed with seizures 2 years ago. She is on multiple medications and one (lasix) makes her pee a lot. She knows how to go outside and does go when put outside but she poops (and pees) inside her pen and ends up walking through it throughout the day as she developed some pacing tendencies since the seizures. Any suggestions how to train her to not poop or walk in it while being in a pen for 12 hours (my work shift) .

    • Sam
    • April 4, 2016
    Reply

    My chiuawah is 6 months old and poo’s in her bed and lies on it or eats it, how can I stop this??

    • Shahenda
    • March 27, 2016
    Reply

    Hi
    I need help i have chiuahua 3 month and she is nipping most of the time if she sits beside me on the sofa or if i carry her and during playing she bites my toes or my childrens toes while walking at house. I got 2 trainers all what they said is to say no firmly and it doesnt work a lot any suggestions please

    • Aly
    • March 26, 2016
    Reply

    I am a new chihuahua owner and am needing some help. I adopted a 16 month old male chihuahua from the local shelter. So excited to take him home. Even found out he was house trained. I have carried him outside to go potty multiple times, so far nothing. He seems to have separation anxiety, gets nervous when I leave the room? He has stayed in his bed most of the night. I finally got him to the food bowl to eat. Or I thought I did… He ran around the corner, lifted his leg and peed on the carpet. I immediately took him outside and told him we don’t go potty in the house. He didn’t pee then either. There are 2 male outside cats here that come inside sometimes. I am wondering if it’s a territory issue? I share the house with a family member and don’t want any more accidents tonight. I am a little frustrated, I dont know what to do. He loves his bed but, I will not be getting him a crate until tomorrow.

      • Paul
      • September 29, 2016
      Reply

      Chihuahuas are very sensitive and finicky and if you just got him he is probably going nuts. It takes them a while to trust you and start to listen. Just build that trust with food and bonding and as you do so he will listen to you more. They have impeccable memories though so don’t ever spank them, because they will remember it and trust you less. Consistency is key. I’ve been in your shoes twice with new chi’s.

    • chris
    • March 23, 2016
    Reply

    Please help, I have a 3 year old Chihuahua – Rat Terrier. We’ve tried crates. However, he still pees and poops in it! Our biggest problem is that he wakes up at 3-4 AM and goes to pee in the basement. He just can’t hold it long enough! We’ve tried feeding him earlier, shampooing the rug to get rid of the scent, and even taken him out frequently and praising him when he pees! Please give good advice as to how to stop him from peeing indoors. Thank you.

      • Amy
      • May 22, 2016
      Reply

      I have a chi who is about 9 now he is paper trained. He stays in our second washroom with door closed at night so if he has to go he goes on the newspaper. I use to leave the door open but he would sneak out to the basement for his business. So try puting a newspaper close to him.

      • Dayna
      • July 5, 2016
      Reply

      Im having this exact same problem with my 9 year old chihuahua, i scrubbed my floors with bleach and she is still peeing in the same spot. Im thinking or rather hoping its just cause she is getting old and was thinking about getting her diapers but thats just insane, im hoping my steady training will help fix it. What I have been doing is google searching training ways and making my own little training guide.

        • Dawn
        • January 27, 2017
        Reply

        I have a 7 week old Chihuahua so I decided to buy a small pan so he could climb over in it. I then put news paper and kitty litter on top of the paper. I use some Grass and dirt mixed in with the litter and he goes in it sometimes but he’s so young but it seems to be working for the most part

      • Elaine
      • July 23, 2016
      Reply

      Have you tried using a belly band with him? As my doxy-terrier mix got older I put a belly band on him. It stopped the marking. I made a belly band and used adult incontinent pads. You can get about 30 for $8-$10 Doggy pads from the pet store cost about $15-$18 for 20.

    • Angeline
    • March 2, 2016
    Reply

    I have a three month old chi and besides a few accidents, he is getting the hang of going outside. I know he has to go when he stops what he is doing and sniffs around. My advice would be to be mindful of your pet and take note of their behavior. If I take him out every 30-40 minutes, we avoid accidents in the house. I bought a play pen and put it on our deck. This confines his potty space, which has helped because his scent is concentrated and he cannot run around finding leaves to eat!

    • Nic
    • February 24, 2016
    Reply

    I have a 6 year old chihuahua and he poops and pees all over the house even tho he’s let out very often and knows it’s bad to pee and poop in the house. We have a young boxer who doesn’t go in the house at all so I’m not sure why the chihuahua does. Idk what to do and my mom keeps threatening to give him away. 😭

    • julianne
    • February 13, 2016
    Reply

    Hi im about to have a chi with me and all that really helped me know get ready for his coming🐕🐶

    Thank you!

    Love,
    Julianne

    • Marissa
    • February 7, 2016
    Reply

    My chihuahua is a little over a year old, he doesn’t like any of the treats I’ve given him and frequently pees in the house I’ve tried taking him outside around five times a day and he only goes a small amount outside and waits to be inside before he actually goes, it’s becoming frustrating because I’ve tried the training pads and when I confine him to a crate he cries so loud that the neighbors complain(I live in an apartment) I don’t know what to do, I tell him no, I tell him to go potty when he’s put outside but he always ends up going in the house again please help

    • Steph bland
    • November 18, 2015
    Reply

    Hi! We have a 1yr old jackhuhua( Jack Russell/chihuahua.
    He has been so hard to house train.
    Very regular with his business but will try to do it I. The house instead of outside if he can.
    The cold weather can be a factor.
    We take him out very frequently( prob too much) and the him to the same few places.
    Morning he is very good at doing everything before his food, the. It is hard to trust him in the house! Help.
    And he knows it’s wrong coz he will go to the back door, do it, and sulk off( this can be 5 mins after he has just had a walk)

    • About Zelda
    • November 4, 2015
    Reply

    I adopted a 4 yrs old chihuahua rescue three weeks ago.
    The second day she was at the apt I had left a pee pas in the bathroom and she peed on it. I was thrilled, all on her own.
    Since then we go on three well spaces walks a day and she does her business outside no prob
    I got sick last week and haven’t been able to walk her as early in the day as I she seems to have gotten used to let alone if it’s raining it’s not even possible.
    Now she’s taken to peeing on the carpet and ignoring the pee pad in the bathroom or anywhere else for that matter
    I’ve scolded her when she does it, and started locking her in the bathroom after spending a great deal of time with her trying to get her to pee on the pew pad . Sometimes I’ll stay in for an hour . She walks in circles but “nada”.
    As soon as I open the door she goes and pews on the hallway carpet . I have decided to leave her by herself in the bathroom all night tonight to see if she gets it. Is this advisable.
    I’ve left an old shirt in the corner for her to lie on.

    • Robyn
    • November 2, 2015
    Reply

    I have a 7 year old mini male Yorkie and just rescued a young female chihuahua. I’m going to try the crate training but I don’t want to put my Yorkie in a crate. They both sleep with me at night but during the day I’m gone for 5 or 6 hrs. I’m not sure about only putting her in the crate why I’m gone. I don’t know what to do. I’m looking for advice from any one, Please.

    • Ainsley
    • November 2, 2015
    Reply

    I have recently adopted a 4yo rescued Chihuahua from an illegal ‘hoarder’. She was never taught anything and didn’t have a name. I’m trying to get her to use the pee pads, but she ignores it and doesn’t pee or poo, so I try taking her outside and she still won’t pee or poop. She is healthy, hydrated and fed more than what she probably should and nothing. She is very timid and nervous and every time i go to pat her she runs away or crouches low to the ground but she will follow me around the house. I don’t know what to do? Please someone help!

    • Simba
    • September 23, 2015
    Reply

    I have a puppy and I’m trying to house train him; however, I work 10 hr shifts 4 days a week and he’s in the kernel all day. He doesn’t poo in the house but he still pees in the house.. I’ve just started taking his water and putting him back in the kennel when it’s time for bed, but I feel bad because I’m work such long hours it’s like he lives in there.. I want to leave him in the hallway when I leave for work and just put the fence up but I’m afraid he’ll go back to poopibg in the house. Help why can I do to keep him for being in the kennel so much

    • Sally
    • September 5, 2015
    Reply

    A week and a half ago I adopted a 6-year-old spayed Chihuahiua rescue. Her only issue concerns housebreaking, and the one thing I find aggravating is that on several occasions when I’ve taken her outside in an attempt to get her to go potty, she’s pooped as soon as come back into the house. So frustrating! I’ve been following the housebreaking procedure recommended by my vet: take her out of the crate every two waking hours (I set my alarm clock to ring) and take her outside. If she goes potty there I can leave her out of the crate, but if she doesn’t eliminate I put her right back in the crate. Any suggestions as to how to get her to stop pottying right after we.ve come back inside?

    • Rosie Carmona
    • August 23, 2015
    Reply

    I have a 4yr old n he has been real good in not peeing inside the house 🏠, until 8 months ago we decidef to get another Chi, my oldest tend to mark where the little peed, how can I break that habit. I see pee more frequently then before we got the new chi. I get so frustrated 😰 n upset. I need so suggestions please! Thanking you in advance for your help.

      • dot
      • September 10, 2015
      Reply

      having the both fixed with help the situation greatly.

      • Bianca Musajeth
      • October 8, 2015
      Reply

      Hello Rosie,please try enzyme cleaner to eliminate smells that humands cannot perceive but dogs can. This will prevent having your pups try to mark a place where other pups have peed.

    • Sarah
    • August 17, 2015
    Reply

    I am to be getting a chichi x poodle mix today and I hope this works. Seems easier said then done.

    • Mia
    • August 13, 2015
    Reply

    I have a little chihuahua x dachshund girl who is lovely when in my house and poos and pees on her pad but when we travel she will always do it on the floor? I need help if I want her to get out a lot.

    • Richie Lassard
    • August 13, 2015
    Reply

    I am the proud owner of a 9 1/2 week old male Chihuahua. He’s such good company. Brings joy and happyness in the house. But, while walking him, he constantly sits down. (I guess he wants to be lifted up). But i don’t give in and try to keep walking, gently pulling the line. Sometimes it takes like forever to walk a quarter of a mile. It is not improving, it stays the same, whatever i do or try. It’s not that he is unwilling to learn. I tought him 3 tricks in three days, wich is awesomd for such a young puppy. But what can i do to make him WANT to walk instead of sitting down all the time? When we walk away from the house, it’s worse than when we walk back TO the house. Then he’s sometimes actualy pulling the line. Wich makes me think he wants to be in the house ASAP. So, what is going on here, and what should i do? Any suggestions?

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