Method of training - Paw Talk

luvchi · #1 11-09-2006, 03:36 AM

I will be purchasing a Chihuahua puppy in Jan/Feb and I'm a first time dog owner. I have been doing a lot of reading and I'm wondering wha the best method of house training a small breed like that is? I will be moving into an apartment or condo with my boyfriend (something around the size of those) so it would be nice if we could avoid lots of accidents, lol. I know they will happen sometimes while training of course, but I want the training to be effective so they don't happen afterwards.

Mel · #2 11-09-2006, 10:09 PM

Crate training! All the way.

My Dane puppy was house broken in 3 days once I bought her crate.

Vanilla_Rat · #3 11-09-2006, 10:11 PM

I agree...crate training is really good!!Also stick with a routine or schedule!

GeishaGirl · #4 11-10-2006, 02:52 AM

Crate training will work, but ONLY if done properly. I tried it and I have heard from my sister who is learning about this and has heard from people who train dogs that it can work but if not done properly he will probably be crated for life, and still have not learned a thing.

Chihuahua? You should try getting him to use a cat litter box. My sister works for a animal care business called Creature Care - I would give my LEFT hand to work their but SIGH do not own a car, anyway one of her previous clients had a Chihuahua and was trained to use a litter box. It is really helpful!!

So I would say do lots of research before crating and ask for help from people who can or has done it successfully, or a trainer, or even your vet, because number one thing is any dog needs to feel like the crate is a safe place and never feel like it is a punishment or a bad place...but I am horrible crate training, guess that is why I have cats

Vanilla_Rat · #5 11-10-2006, 03:59 AM

Yes,crates should NEVER be used for punishment.

I have crate trained many dogs (my fosters) and helped with crate training office/kennel dogs,which get used to it pretty quickly in most cases,as they are on routine.Eventually dogs see the crate as a safe place and will often go there on their own to feel safe or "get away from it all".

I know someone who has a litter trained chihuahua too...but if you wanna housetrain the dog and litter train it,this CAN confuse the dog.I say just stick to one method of house training.