How to Use Bells for Housebreaking

Housebreaking a puppy or older dog requires repetition of the training technique and positive reinforcement on the part of the trainer. Using the same training method each time the dog needs to go out creates a pattern of learned behavior and conditions the dog to become house trained. The animal will alert you of his needs, preventing accidents in the house.

Things You'll Need

  • Bell
  • String
  • Dog Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a lightweight bell that makes a jingling sound. Choose one door that you want your dog to associate with going outside to relieve himself. Cut a string that will hang low enough from the door handle that your dog can touch it with his nose or paw. Attach a string to the bell. Tie the bell to the door handle. Place a bag of dog treats on a table in close proximity to the door so that you may provide a positive response for your dog immediately after he rings the bell.

    • 2

      Observe the dog. Ask the dog the same question: "Do you need to go out?" each time he appears ready to relieve himself. Walk to the door immediately after asking the question. Ring the bell when your dog approaches the door to go out so he begins to associate ringing the bell with going out.

    • 3

      Choose a positive response such as "Yes" or "Good" that you will use each time your dog exemplifies the correct behavior. Put a dog treat in your hand. Use your finger from the opposite hand to gently push the bell toward the dog, enticing him to investigate the bell. Allow the dog to touch the bell with his nose or paw.

    • 4

      Say "Yes" or "Good" with enthusiasm when he touches the bell. Reward the dog with the treat in your hand immediately after he rings the bell. Practice this 10 to 15 times per training session to condition the dog. Place a treat in your hand. Move the bell a few inches away from the dog as the training progresses over the course of a couple days. Coax the dog to touch the bell with his nose with a verbal cue such as "Touch" or "Ring." Give the dog a positive verbal response and treat upon touching the bell. Practice 5 to 10 times per training session.

    • 5

      Let the dog out to go relieve himself. Accompany him outside with a treat in your hand. Give him five minutes outside. Reward him with a treat and verbal response such as "Good" or "Yes" as soon as he urinates or defecates outside. Repeat the entire training method until the dog rings the bell unprompted each time he needs to go out.