How to Train a Puppy to Let You Know When It Has to Go Potty

A puppy that is properly house trained will offer enjoyment and pleasure; the opposite is true of a dog that is not properly trained. Elimination indoors can cause stress and tension for you and your puppy, which wants to please you but may be confused on how to do so. A fantastic way to teach your puppy to communicate its elimination needs is through a designated gesture such as ringing a bell.

Things You'll Need

  • Bell
  • Leash
  • Puppy treats
  • Pet odor neutralizer
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Instructions

  1. Instructions

    • 1

      Pick the signal or gesture you would like your dog to use to communicate its bathroom needs. For example, you can introduce a bell and attach it to the door your puppy uses to go outside and eliminate.

    • 2

      Choose the phrase you want your puppy to associate with doing its business. For example, the Humane Society recommends using the phrase "go potty." Say the phrase in an enthusiastic and sing-song voice. Go to the door, ring the bell while saying "go potty" and then open the door and go outside. Walk your puppy on a leash directly to the designated elimination area and repeat the phrase "go potty" until your puppy eliminates. Reward your puppy with praise and a treat immediately and then come inside.

    • 3

      Ring the bell before going outside while saying the key phrase "go potty" for one week. After the first week has passed, go to the door and say "go potty" without ringing the bell. Your puppy should nudge the bell on its own, probably with some hesitation at first. If it does nudge the bell immediately, praise it for a job well done. If you puppy continues to stare at you and does not ring the bell on its own, don't worry. Just give it a few more days and try again. Do not wait longer than 10 seconds before ringing the bell on your own and saying "go potty."

    • 4

      Never ring the bell for anything other than communicating elimination needs. Also, never let your puppy outside without ringing the bell and using the key phrase--this would send it a mixed signal. Be consistent and positive, and most puppies will learn this desired action in a short time. Soon they will go directly to the bell and ring it to be let out.

    • 5

      Immediately stop your puppy from eliminating indoors by picking it up and pushing its tail down. Ring the bell, say "go potty" and take the puppy to the designated area. Always expect accidents in the beginning, and stay calm: Your puppy is learning. Clean up all elimination accidents with a pet odor neutralizer to remove the scent, and prevent the puppy from seeking the same spot again.