New Chihuahua questions

Question
I'll be getting my new chi in the next several weeks and I have some questions. We've crate trained our other dogs (bigger breeds). Is it a good idea to crate train chis? She will be housebroken with puppy pads before she comes to me. How do I make the transition to going outside? I am getting Sophie from a friend. Usually they let their puppies go to new homes around 5 weeks if they've been eating for a week. That seems a little young to me. Is it? Sophie is smaller than her litter mates. Does that mean she'll have health issues? And one last question. At what age can you tell if they will be long or short coat? This pup came from a long coat mom and short coat dad.
Thanks!

Answer
Hi Paula - Well, please ask if she can stay with mom until 8 weeks... If not, at least 6 weeks old...OK>>>>>>
Next, crate training chi dogs is easy - just get a good book and follow it to a T.  
Chi doggies like to push the limits...Don't let that cute face make you MELT...

Go here to the following sites and learn more about the breed...
BEST wishes...
Marie Peppers

A Past Q and A on Chi doggies : from Pet Nurse Marie

http://en.allexperts.com/q/Chihuahuas-3344/2008/11/Crate-training-feeding.htm

http://www.pottytrainingpuppiesblog.com/uncategorized/indoor-potty-training-for-...