Dog won't ring bell for potty breaks. What am I doing wrong?

Question

I have been determined to teach Mabel to ring the bell by the front door to go outside. We went through all the steps and she rings the bell before we take her out each time if we ask her to touch the bell, but has yet to figure out to ring it on her own. It’s been over two months at this stage of training. What are we doing wrong? I don’t want to give up on the bell as she’s doesn’t bark or do anything to let us know she needs to go out. Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | spayed | 8 months and 10 days old | 11.5 lbs

Dr. Kristin DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for your question. Bell training can be a great solution. Some dogs pick it up very quickly, but some take a bit longer. My biggest suggestion is to go out a little less frequently. You might be taking her out before she would ask to go, so she hasn't learned to ask. At 8 months old, she can hold her bladder much longer than a younger puppy can. Try putting her leash on her and waiting near the bell. She may wonder why you are just standing there when she needs to go out. Give her a few minutes to think about it, and see if she touches the bell. Wait at least 5 minutes, ignoring her before you direct her to the bell. If she does touch it on her own, make a big deal about it with lots of praise, and immediately head out the door. I hope this helps her make the connection! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Dog won't ring bell for potty breaks. What am I doing wrong?

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