When it comes to training your Chihuahua, most people will say that training a Chihuahua is very difficult. However, in almost all of those cases, they are referring to housebreaking, and not to general training. It is true, unfortunately, that housebreaking a Chihuahua is difficult, but there is a specific reason why this is so.

The reason it is so hard to housebreak a Chihuahua is because no matter whether the dog is male or female, he or she will be inclined to mark his or her territory ? often. When this happens, it is essential that you clean the area well, so that the entire odor is removed. Look for products designed to remove the smell of urine, and remember that the dog’s sense of smell is about one hundred times greater than your own.

Let the dog know that this displeases you, but don’t do this using discipline. Take the dog outdoors as soon as you see him urinate indoors. When you return outdoors, have him watch you clean the area. Do not rub his nose in it, as this will serve no purpose other than to harm your relationship with the dog. By all means do not spank the dog. You can speak to him in a tone about what he has done that lets him know that you are unhappy about it ? without being abusive.

Next, make sure that you are consistent with your housebreaking. Dogs typically need to urinate upon waking, after eating, and after playing. Make sure that you take him out at these times ? consistently. When you take him outdoors, stay outdoors with him until he has taken care of his business, and once he does this, make sure that you praise him and let him know that he has pleased you.

In this respect, housebreaking a Chihuahua is as easy as housebreaking any other breed of dog. The only real problem comes with him feeling the need to mark his territory ? but if the odor is removed, and he knows that this is making you unhappy, he will stop doing it. Often, Chihuahuas will stop marking their territory after they have been spayed or neutered, but this isn’t always the case.

Most of all, try to have patience with your stubborn Chihuahua. Talk to other Chihuahua owners to see how they have dealt with the territory marking problem as well. If you are patient, and you are constantly looking for a solution, the problem will be resolved in a way that satisfies you and your Chihuahua.