Puppy chihuahua indoor toilet training

Question
I have a 4month male chihuahua puppy. I live in a large apartment, and don't have a garden. Even though he gets taken out for walks outside every day, I am trying to train him to go on 'puppy mats' indoors but am finding myself constantly cleaning his pee from the rest of the apartment. When ever he goes somewhere else i tell him off and put him straight on the mat, and if he ever goes on it i praise him with dog treats. Any tips for training him to go on them, or if i should use a litter tray or a different method? I love him so much, but my partner is now talking of getting rid of him if he doesnt start learing, and i desperately need some help asap.
many thanks

Answer
Hello, Jascia!  I have a few suggestions for you to try with your Chihuahua puppy.  Consistency is key with any dog training, including potty training.  Be sure the mats are always in the same place and you should use a specific word like "potty" with your puppy, so he will eventually associate the act with that word.  So, when you take him outside or on the mat and he goes potty, say "Potty - good boy" and praise him.  Make every effort to take puppy outside (or to the mat) anytime he wakes up from a nap, or finishes eating or playing, and anytime you arrive after leaving him alone.  Also, if you do leave him alone I would highly recommend a crate if you don't already have one.  Crates are wonderful, not just for potty training.  Be sure to always thoroughly clean up any urine puppy leaves on your carpets/floors with a neutralizing solution.  I have found that a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water works well.  If you do not neutralize the odor, puppy is likely to go back to that spot again.  Also, when you do clean up any urine, you can leave the towel on the potty mat to entice puppy to go there next time.  Praise is much more effective than punishment, so don't punish puppy - he won't understand.  Most puppies will learn potty training by about 6 months old, so don't lose hope.  Good luck!