Potty training can be easy and/or difficult. You will need to be patience and understand how your puppy works. Most breeders keep newborns in a confined area with Mom until they are ready to go to their own crates. Potty training can begin at this time. however, you will be training yourself, which will be good getting the puppy use to the routine. A puppy is born with instincts to keep its sleeping area clean. However, it is unable to control its bladder or stool until it is nearer to 4 months old. A crate is an important tool to have for this process and your little one will feel safe in its own home. So here are some more helpful things to know.
When you get your new “Chihuahua” at about 8 to 12 weeks of age, you will need to start a schedule for yourself and your puppy. When you get up in the morning, get your puppy from its crate, which should be large enough for it to stand and turn around in when it is full grown, and take it outside. Stay with the puppy and use commands like ‘go potty’ or something that works for you. After it has completed his chores praise it lavishly, ‘Good puppy - Go potty’. Do not use treats. Your puppy may want to go outside just to get food.
After feedings within 5 - 20 mins., pup will need to go and relive itself again.. If you repeat this process upon waking and feeding your puppy will begin a routine. There will be accidents. Verbally scold pup if you catch it in the act. If not you can say something like ‘somebody had an accident, bad dog’. NEVER force their faces into their stool or urine. This is very degrading and you won’t score any points. NEVER hit your puppy. Puppy will become hand shy and rebellious. You will also have difficulty getting your puppy to come to you when called.
As your puppy grows it will develop a way to let you know it needs to go outside. Most of mine just go to the door and sit.
A common mistake people make is giving the little one too much freedom too soon. When you feel secure your puppy knows the rules you can begin to give it more freedom. Mine sleep with me. Also note that puppies takes a lot of naps throught the day and may need a potty break during the night too.
Another way to train is to have scented puppy pads at designated areas in your home and do the same routine to the pads. This is very good for apartment dwellers and no fenced yards. It is also great during the winter or rainy seasons.
Remember, have patience, praise often, and lots and lots of love. Also, repetition is the key.
Love Your Baby & Enjoy |
