When we get our new pup in a few weeks we would like to potty train him by using the bell method. (not sure if there is a technical term for this) From what I understand you place some bells near the door he will be going out. When he needs to go he can either bump the bells with his nose, or paw at them to let us know he needs to go. If anyone here has trained their sheltie in this method, we would realy like some advice on what all needs to be done for this to happen. Thanks!
potty training with bells
- Thread starter War Pig
- Start date
This is exactly how I trained Lexi. I got a HUGE Jingle bell from a craft store (such as Hobby Lobby or Micheal's) and I tied some string around it and hung it at about nose height for Lexi. I started her at about 14 weeks old. About every hour when it was time for her to go out I would force her head to hit the bell. After about a week she put two and two together and now after a year and a half it still works like a charm. It was so easy to teach her and by far the best thing i have ever taught her. The key is to keep forcing them to ring the bell EVERY time you go out, whether to do business or play. Hope this helps!
As others have said, it's a great method to use and very easy to teach! I don't think it is necessary to force your dog to nose or paw the bells, as they are smart dogs, and it seems to come naturally after they understand. You should ring the bells yourself each time you exit with your puppy. Eventually he will be bounding up to the door to ring them on his own!