Hang your dog training bells on the inside doorknob that your dog uses to get out. If your dog uses more than one gate, he should hang them on those gates as well.
Note: A good set of dog training bells has the hanging loop conveniently divided and equipped with hook and loop tape to attach securely to each style of knob and handle.
Decide on a “potty training command” for your pup
We suggest the plain and simple: “Let’s do it!”. Make sure everyone in your household uses the same command with your dog, as consistency is vital.
Starting
We think the best time to start potty training your pup is first thing in the morning, when you know your dog really has to! As you state your “Potty Training Command,” take your dog’s paw and gently tap the dog training bells. Since you will need to do it urgently, just guide them to ring the bells a couple of times. As he does, give them words of encouragement like, “Good boy, good bells” and “Ring the bells, let’s do!” Note: If your dog is so small that he cannot reach the bells while standing, gently pick your dog up on his hind legs and guide one front leg toward the bells.
DO NOT give him treats at this time. You don’t want to accidentally train your dog to think that ringing the bell is a trick! Only AFTER your dog goes out to do (and actually does!) will you reward him with a treat. Again, no treats unless they really relieve themselves!
Repetition
Repeat the above training method every time you take them out to do. Be consistent and diligent with this training, and your dog will soon be ringing the bells on his own!
It’s also critical that you continue to praise your pup when he rings the dog training bells, as it will further reinforce this positive style of communicating his needs.
Also, if you have multiple dogs in your home, they can all be bell trained simultaneously. It doesn’t matter if you are potty training a puppy or an old dog, everyone can learn to use bells! Some dogs notice within days, while others take longer, even up to 4 weeks. Be patient, and again, use lots of positive reinforcement. Once your dog has mastered the sound of the bell, feel free to take your dog for bell training on the way to Grandma’s house, or even a hotel room! Immediately show your dog where you have hung your bells. Then they’ll know, wherever the bells are hung, it’s the door they’ll use to go out and do.