How to Potty Train a Puppy Using a Bell

Getting a new puppy is a big commitment that requires a lot of your time. One of the most important things you need to train your puppy is to go potty outside. In addition to learning where you want him to go, your new puppy needs to learn how to let you know that he has to go. Using a bell is a great way to do this.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Attach a few jingle bells to a string and hang them over the door knob of the door that you use to take your puppy in and out for potty. Make sure the bells hang low enough that the puppy can reach them with his nose and paws. Choose jingle bells that do not have large enough openings for the balls inside to fall out, causing your puppy to choke. You could also purchase Poochie-Bells, which are marketed for this purpose.

2. Chose a word or phrase to use with your puppy when taking him outside to go potty. You might want to use "go out" or "go potty", whatever works best for you. Be sure to consistently use the same words every time.

3. Bring your puppy to the door, on leash. When you get to the door, say your chosen phrase and then ring the bell. After you have rung the bell, take the puppy outside to go to the bathroom. Repeat this every time that you take the puppy out for the first couple of weeks.

4. Take the puppy to the door and say your chosen phrase but do not ring the bell, after your first two weeks of training. Instead, wait for the puppy to paw at or nose the bell, causing it to ring. Tell her she is a good girl, with enthusiasm. Then open the door and take her outside. Repeat this every time you take out her out for another couple of weeks.

5. Expect your puppy to start ringing the bell all by himself when he wants to go out. He has been trained that ringing the bell means going out. Be sure to listen for the bell so you can give him his reward of opening the door.

Resources

• Poochie-Bells sold here.