Little Smelly Problem!

[Brooklyn]

My Chihuahuas are housetrained and everything but they will still go in the basement on potty on the floor, and the basement has carpet in it too! I usually prohibit them from going down there by putting up a baby gate but it is yard to jump over everytime we need down there. I have been working with them and letting them go down in the basement but I watch them and when the go I immediately put them outside and say, "No, no honey you cant potty on the carpet." In a sweet voice and I cant yell at them because they are too sensitive and cute, it has been working a little but not hardly at all. Has anyone else had this problem, what did you do to correct it?

[Brooklyn]

Do I need to be more firm with them and say NO in a firmer voice?

[calgal]

If they are still going potty on a floor or carpet in the basement then they aren't totally house trained. Don't let them anywhere that you know they will potty. I think because there is no door in the basement to go outside then they feel they have no choice. Hang a small bell at the bottom of the stairs and teach them to ring it and take them outside when they do. You will not be able to take your eyes off the dogs the entire time your in the basement. If they even start to potty, in a loud voice say ACH, grab them up, ring the bell, praise, and take them out. If you cannot watch them and want them in the basement with you then put them in the crate. Just make the bell fun. Start by taking their paw and hit the cord till it rings, say good girl/boy take outside, pet, praise and reward if they potty outside.