One of the first things the owners of Chihuahuas need to accomplish is housetraining puppies. The earlier your puppy is housetrained, the sooner you will enjoy a clean house and have fun with your Chihuahua without the worry of having a mess to clean up. The time to begin housetraining is when you first bring your Chihuahua to his or her new home. Stop outside before going in and place the little guy or girl in the place where you want him or her to urinate or defecate. When that takes place, praise the pup and bring him or her inside for a first taste of his or her new home.

Dogs have a natural tendency not to want to soil the place where they sleep, and this can be used to advantage. A pet supply store can sell you a crate big enough for your Chihuahua to walk inside of and turn around. This crate will become his den where he or she likes to go when he or she feels like being alone. Put your puppy into the crate after he or she has been outside and eliminated. Two hours later, take the pup out of the crate and carry him or her outside immediately. Take your Chihuahua to the same place each day. Dogs are creatures of habit, and they will recognize the proper place by its odor. Have a command you give each time, such as, "Do Your Outside Thing," or "Do Your Business." After he or she has eliminated, praise your pet. Dogs want to please their families and like to get praise. Two hours later, repeat the process. On days when you go to work and leave your Chihuahua alone, do not leave food or water in the

crate, since this will make it difficult for the puppy to control his or her bladder and bowels. When you come home, take the puppy outside and then come in and feed and water it.

When you want to take your Chihuhua puppy out of the crate, watch carefully, and if he or she walks away from you and begins sniffing the ground, or squats, quickly pick him or her up and go outdoors. Go to the usual place, and praise your pup when elimination takes place. Do not scold or hit when accidents take place. This will only make your little pup afraid of you.

When your Chihuahua puppy eats his or her food and drinks, he or she is likely to need to go outside, so take this time to take the pooch for a walk. Again, praise your friend when he or she eliminates. Puppies also often eliminate after playtime, so that is also a good time to go outdoors, or, in good weather, you can play outdoors.

The best time to buy a Chihuahua puppy is in the spring or summer so that you will be able to take him or her for walks comfortably. Puppies need to go out frequently, so be patient, and think of your walks as a good time for both of you to get some fresh air and exercise. With consistent training your Chihuahua should be housetrained in about two weeks. Then you will have a friend for many years and a clean carpet too. Enjoy your Chihuahua.