Potty Training a Chihuahua Puppy: Complete Guide for Fast, Stress-Free Success

ByShirley Brown

Housebreaking Tips That Actually Work for This Tiny but Stubborn Breed

Potty training a Chihuahua puppy can feel like a full-time job. With their tiny bladders, big personalities, and love for routine, Chihuahuas require a patient and consistent approach to housebreaking.

But don’t worry — if you follow the right method, your Chihuahua can be fully potty trained, even in a small apartment or busy household.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • Why potty training Chihuahuas can be tricky
  • How to create a training schedule that works
  • Outdoor vs indoor pad training (or both)
  • Common mistakes and how to avoid them
  • What to do if your adult Chihuahua still has accidents

Why Are Chihuahuas Hard to Potty Train?

Chihuahuas are not untrainable — they just require a unique approach. Here’s why some owners struggle:

  • Tiny bladders: They physically can’t “hold it” very long
  • Cold or wet weather sensitivity: They often resist going outside
  • Strong-willed nature: They prefer comfort and routine
  • Over-spoiling: Some owners carry them too much and skip training
  • Inconsistent schedules: Makes learning more difficult

But once they understand what you want, Chihuahuas learn quickly — especially when positive reinforcement is used.

Step-by-Step Chihuahua Potty Training Schedule

Consistency is your number one tool. Follow this structured plan:

Morning Routine

  • Take your puppy outside immediately after waking up
  • Praise and reward immediately after they potty — don’t wait to get inside
  • Feed breakfast 10–15 minutes after potty
  • Take out again 10–15 minutes after eating

Midday

  • Potty break every 60–90 minutes
  • After naps, play sessions, or drinking water — always go outside

Evening

  • Last potty break right before bedtime
  • Limit food and water intake 2 hours before sleep (if recommended by your vet)

Nighttime (for young puppies)

  • Wake up at least once around 3–4 a.m. for the first few weeks
  • As bladder control improves, you can phase this out

Outdoor vs Indoor Potty Training (Pee Pads)

You have two training options — or a hybrid approach:

Outdoor Training

Pros:

  • Long-term solution
  • Avoids indoor accidents later
  • Encourages walking habits

Cons:

  • May be tough during winter, rain, or late nights
  • Harder if you live in an apartment

Indoor Pad Training

Pros:

  • Convenient and clean when managed properly
  • Ideal for apartment dwellers
  • Great backup during harsh weather

Cons:

  • May lead to confusion if not transitioned outdoors later
  • Some dogs think it’s okay to potty inside anywhere

Tip: Use a designated “potty zone” and don’t move the pad around.

Tools That Make Potty Training Easier

  • High-value treats: Use soft, small training treats and reward immediately
  • Leash and harness: Keep your Chihuahua focused when outside
  • Crate: Great for preventing accidents when unsupervised
  • Potty bell: Hang near the door — teach your dog to ring it when they need to go
  • Cleaning spray: Use enzymatic cleaners to remove odor from accidents

Crate + Potty Training: A Perfect Combo

Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area — which makes crate training a powerful potty training tool.

How to use it:

  • Keep your Chihuahua in their crate when you can’t supervise
  • Immediately take them outside when you let them out
  • Don’t leave them in the crate longer than they can hold it (60–90 mins for young puppies)

Never use the crate as punishment. It should be their safe space.

What to Do When Accidents Happen

Accidents are part of the process — how you react matters.

Don’t:

  • Rub their nose in it
  • Scold or yell
  • Punish after the fact (they won’t connect it)

Do:

  • Clean thoroughly with odor remover
  • Supervise more closely
  • Re-establish the routine
  • Reward them generously when they do it right

If accidents keep happening, consider:

  • Going back to crate training
  • Limiting access to too many rooms
  • Consulting a vet for any underlying issues

How Long Does It Take to Potty Train a Chihuahua?

Every dog is different, but here’s a general timeline:

  • 8–12 weeks: Start training — expect accidents
  • 12–16 weeks: Some consistency forms
  • 4–6 months: Most Chihuahuas can be mostly potty trained
  • 6+ months: Full control, especially with outdoor access

Rescues or older dogs may take longer, but the same rules apply.

Troubleshooting: Common Potty Training Issues

Problem: Puppy goes inside right after being outside

  • Stay out longer
  • Avoid distractions
  • Reward immediately when they go

Problem: Puppy only goes on the pad, won’t go outside

  • Slowly move the pad closer to the door
  • Place it outside, then remove once they adapt

Problem: Puppy hides and goes potty

  • Too much unsupervised freedom
  • Use crate, gates, or leashes to keep them near you

Final Thoughts

Potty training a Chihuahua isn’t always easy — but it’s absolutely possible. The key is structure, patience, and positive reinforcement.

Stick to your routine, celebrate small wins, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. With time and consistency, your Chihuahua will be clean, confident, and fully housebroken.

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