Potty training a new puppy or even an older dog can feel like a never-ending journey of accidents and frustration. You try everything – scheduled walks, praising success, cleaning up messes – but sometimes, your furry friend just doesn’t know how to tell you they need to go outside. That’s where a fantastic tool like a dog doorbell comes into play! It offers a simple, non-confrontational way for your canine companion to communicate their needs, saving your floors and your sanity.
Choosing the best dog doorbell for potty training can make a huge difference in your housebreaking journey. Forget barking or scratching at the door; with a doorbell, your dog learns a clear, polite signal. We’ve rounded up 10 top-notch options, ranging from classic hanging bells to modern push-button designs, to help you find the perfect fit for your home and your pup. Let’s get ringing!
Why Use a Dog Doorbell for Potty Training?
Dog doorbells are a game-changer for several reasons:
- Clear Communication: They provide a distinct signal that’s easy for both you and your dog to understand.
- Reduces Accidents: When your dog can tell you they need to go, indoor accidents become less frequent.
- Less Frustration: No more guessing games or cleaning up unexpected surprises.
- Empowers Your Dog: It gives your dog a voice, building confidence and a stronger bond between you.
- Positive Reinforcement: It’s a fun, positive way to reinforce good potty habits.
Types of Dog Doorbells
Generally, dog doorbells come in two main types:
- Hanging Bells: These are straps with bells attached that hang from a doorknob or hook. Your dog nudges or bats them with their nose or paw to make them jingle. They’re often adjustable to suit different dog sizes.
- Button Bells: These are push-button devices that emit a chime or sound when pressed. They can be placed on the floor, wall, or door at an accessible height for your dog.
Both types offer effective potty training solutions; the best one for you will depend on your dog’s personality and your preference.
What to Look For in a Dog Doorbell
Before diving into our top picks, consider these factors:
- Durability: Dogs can be enthusiastic, so look for sturdy materials that can withstand regular use.
- Sound Quality: You want a chime that’s clear and loud enough to hear throughout your home but not annoying.
- Adjustability (for Hanging Bells): Ensure the length can be adjusted to your dog’s height.
- Ease of Training: Does it come with clear instructions?
- Installation: Is it easy to set up?
Now, let’s explore some of the best dog doorbells for potty training on the market!
1. BLUETREE Dog Doorbells Premium Quality Training Potty Great…
The BLUETREE Dog Doorbell stands out for its exceptional adjustability and robust build, making it a favorite for pet parents with dogs of all sizes. Its upgraded design features three levels of length adjustment, ensuring a perfect fit whether you have a tiny chihuahua or a majestic Great Dane. The large, thick-walled jingle bells are crafted from durable, shiny metal, producing a clear, pleasant sound that’s easy on the ears yet loud enough to catch your attention. This hanging doorbell is designed for simple, effective training, often yielding success on the very first day!
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Key Features:
- 3-level adjustable length for all dog sizes
- Large, thick-walled, durable metal bells with silver coating
- Heavy-duty nylon belt for ruggedness
- Loud and clear jingle sound
- Easy 3-step training process
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Pros:
- Highly adjustable for optimal fit
- Very durable and chew-resistant materials
- Loud sound ensures you hear your dog
- Simple training process for quick results
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Cons:
- Can be loud if your dog rings it excessively
- Requires a doorknob or hook for hanging
User Impressions: Many users rave about the BLUETREE doorbell’s ease of use and the quick success they achieved in potty training their dogs. The adjustability is frequently highlighted as a major plus, accommodating various breeds without issue. Customers appreciate the sturdy construction and the clear, consistent bell sound.
2. COOYOO Dog Doorbells, Adjustable Potty Training Dog Bells…
The COOYOO Dog Doorbell offers a unique twist on the traditional hanging bell, providing enhanced flexibility in placement. Its innovative design includes double-sided tape, allowing you to mount the doorbell directly onto the door or wall at any desired height, rather than being limited to just a doorknob. This adaptability, combined with a wide-range adjustable buckle strap, makes it an incredibly versatile choice for any dog, big or small. Crafted from heavy-duty nylon with loud stainless steel bells, it’s built to withstand enthusiastic use for years.
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Key Features:
- New design with double-sided tape for flexible wall/door mounting
- Wide-range buckle adjustment (26.5”-43”)
- Heavy-duty, chew-resistant nylon material
- 5 extra-loud 1.5″ stainless steel bells
- Polished metal hardware for a sleek look
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Pros:
- Offers more placement options than standard hanging bells
- Highly adjustable strap for various dog sizes
- Exceptional durability for long-term use
- Loud bells ensure clear communication
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Cons:
- Tape might not adhere well to all surfaces
- The initial “new design” description can be a bit confusing for first-time buyers
User Impressions: Users love the COOYOO doorbell’s innovative mounting options, saying it allows for perfect placement regardless of door configuration. The durability and loud, clear jingle are consistently praised, and many report quick success in housebreaking their pets.
3. CATHYLIFE Leather Dog Doorbells for Door Knob/Potty…
For those seeking a more premium and aesthetically pleasing option, the CATHYLIFE Leather Dog Doorbell delivers. This unique doorbell combines genuine leather with high-quality copper bells, making it not only a functional potty training tool but also a stylish piece of home décor. The copper bells, featuring polished silica polymer inner balls, produce a crisp, bright sound reminiscent of Christmas bells. It’s designed for simple doorknob hanging, offering an elegant solution to your dog’s communication needs without the need for a bulky dog door.
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Key Features:
- Premium leather and brass bell combo
- High-quality copper bells with polished silica polymer inner ball for crisp sound
- Sturdy and reliable belt and connecting parts
- Easy to hang on doorknobs
- Promotes environmental protection through rolled packaging
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Pros:
- Elegant, decorative design complements home aesthetics
- Crisp and pleasant bell sound
- Durable, premium materials
- Simple, no-installation setup
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Cons:
- May not be as adjustable in length as some nylon strap options
- Leather may temporarily be uneven when first unrolled (as is characteristic of leather)
User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed by the CATHYLIFE doorbell’s sophisticated look and feel, often commenting on how it blends seamlessly with their home decor. The clear, sweet sound of the bells is a frequent highlight, and many report effective potty training with this stylish accessory.
4. Luckyiren Upgraded Puppy Bells Dog Doorbells for Door…
The Luckyiren Upgraded Puppy Bells focus on superior material quality and long-lasting performance. The bells themselves feature a special plating coating technology to maintain their shine and prevent rust, while the inner ball is made of premium stainless steel for a consistently clear and crisp jingle. The heavy-duty nylon belt is rigorously tested for durability, with excellently sewed connections to ensure reliability. With a three-level length adjustment system, this hanging doorbell accommodates a wide range of dog sizes, making it a reliable best dog doorbell for potty training choice.
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Key Features:
- Bells with plating coating technology for shine and rust prevention
- Premium stainless steel inner ball for clear sound
- Heavy-duty, durable nylon belt with strong connections
- 3-level length adjustment with snap/buttons
- Designed to encourage communication instead of barking/scratching
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Pros:
- High-quality, rust-resistant bells
- Exceptional durability of belt and connections
- Versatile length adjustment for different dog heights
- Clear and pleasant jingle sound
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Cons:
- Requires consistent training to achieve desired results (as with any training tool)
- Some users might prefer more adjustment points than 3 snaps
User Impressions: Reviewers commend the Luckyiren doorbell for its sturdy construction and the pleasant, clear sound of its bells. The rust-resistant coating is a popular feature, promising longevity. Many users found the adjustable length very helpful in training their puppies effectively.
5. Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 – Potty Training Button for…
Stepping away from traditional hanging bells, the Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 offers a modern, wireless button-style solution that streamlines potty training. This innovative doorbell is designed for rapid learning, with many dogs mastering its use in just days. Its wireless connection means no complicated wiring or tools are needed for setup; simply mount it with the included adhesive or screws. The loud chime ensures you’ll hear your pup from anywhere in the house, and its durable, weather-proof build guarantees longevity, even for outdoor placement.
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Key Features:
- Wireless, push-button design for quick training
- Easy setup with adhesive or screws (included)
- Loud chime audible throughout the house
- Durable and weather-proof for indoor or outdoor use
- Tested for easy activation by small dogs and puppies
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Pros:
- Faster training potential due to direct interaction
- No hanging required; flexible placement options
- Wireless and easy to install
- Highly durable and resistant to tampering/weather
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Cons:
- Requires battery (though typically long-lasting)
- Some dogs may require more encouragement to press a button than to nudge a hanging bell
User Impressions: The Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 receives high praise for its effectiveness and ease of use. Pet parents love how quickly their dogs pick up on pressing the button, and the loud chime is consistently highlighted as a key benefit, ensuring no missed signals. Its robust build also garners positive feedback.
6. GoGo Bell Dog Doorbell for Housebreaking/Housetraining Door…
The GoGo Bell Dog Doorbell offers a robust, unique, and safer alternative to traditional jingle bells. Crafted from solid metal, this bell eliminates the dangerous slots found in jingle bells where dog claws can get caught, making it a much safer option for your pet. Its design ensures it floats a few inches away from the wall or door, significantly reducing the chance of your dog scratching surfaces when ringing. Easy to install with two included screws, you can mount it at the perfect height for your dog, whether small or large, guaranteeing a reliable and audible signal.
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Key Features:
- Solid metal construction (no thin fabric to fray)
- No dangerous slots for claws to get caught
- Designed to float away from the wall/door to prevent scratching
- Easy screw-in installation at custom height
- Pleasant chime sound for clear communication
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Pros:
- Enhanced safety for dog’s paws
- Protects doors and walls from scratches
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Customizable installation height
- High reported success rate for training
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Cons:
- Requires drilling screws for installation
- Less portable than hanging or button options
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the GoGo Bell’s safety feature as a major selling point, giving them peace of mind. The robust metal construction is also highly praised, as is its effectiveness in preventing door scratches. Many users reported quick and easy potty training with this unique design.
7. Dog Bell for Door Potty Training, Cotton Handwoven Dog…
Combining charming aesthetics with practical functionality, this Cotton Handwoven Dog Doorbell is a delightful addition to any home. Hand-woven with premium cotton rope, it brings a touch of rustic elegance while serving as an effective potty training tool. The six vintage bronze-plated metal bells are durable, rust-resistant, and produce a loud, clear sound that can be heard throughout the house without being annoying. Its clever adjustable length mechanism, featuring a round spring clip snap, allows for effortless customization to fit any dog size or door handle type, even sliding glass doors.
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Key Features:
- Hand-woven with premium cotton rope for attractive design
- 6 vintage, bronze-plated metal bells for durability and clear sound
- Adjustable length using a round spring clip snap for universal fit
- Metal clasp design fits various door knobs and handles
- Effective for potty training without barking or scratching
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Pros:
- Visually appealing, doubles as home decor
- Highly adjustable to accommodate all dog sizes and door types
- Durable and rust-resistant bells
- Loud but pleasant bell sound
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Cons:
- Cotton rope might attract chewing for some dogs
- Vintage bells might have a slightly different tone than traditional jingle bells
User Impressions: Users absolutely adore the aesthetic appeal of this handwoven doorbell, often commenting on how it enhances their home’s look. Beyond its beauty, they praise its effectiveness in potty training and the clear, distinct sound of the bells. The easy adjustability is also a frequently mentioned benefit.
8. KEXIAVA 2 Pack Dog Door Bells Dog Doorbell to go…
The KEXIAVA 2 Pack Dog Door Bells offers a versatile solution, seemingly blending features of both hanging and button bells in its description. While the product title and some features suggest traditional bells, the “Compact and Portable” bullet clearly describes a button bell designed for paw or nose activation. Assuming the latter for its uniqueness, these portable button bells are perfect for toilet training, trick games, and improving communication. With a compact, palm-sized design, a cute paw print, and a robust button, it’s an excellent tool to teach your pet to signal their needs, promoting a better bond.
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Key Features:
- Compact, palm-sized button bell with cute paw print
- Designed for easy activation by paw or nose
- Painted finish to prevent rust
- Multi-purpose: potty training, treat games, order training
- (Note: Features description is mixed, but highlights a distinct button bell aspect).
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Pros:
- Portable and easy to place anywhere
- No installation required; just place on a flat surface
- Easy for pets to learn to press
- Versatile for various training types
- Rust-resistant finish
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Cons:
- Confusing feature description (mixes hanging and button bell details)
- May be too lightweight for very enthusiastic large dogs to keep in place
User Impressions: Customers using these bells (assuming the button type) appreciate their simplicity and effectiveness for training. They find them easy for pets to use and love the clear “ding” sound. The compact size and portability are frequently mentioned as convenient features.
9. GINIDEAR Dog Bells to Go Outside & Puppy Potty Training…
The GINIDEAR Dog Bells distinguish themselves with their attractive handmade design and impressive length, making them suitable for virtually any door and dog size. Crafted with an exquisite and sturdy twisted rope, these bells come in a variety of vibrant colors to match your style. At 35 inches long with an adjustable snap button, they offer more length than most similar products, ensuring even the tallest dogs can comfortably use them. The 3.5cm large metal bells produce a crystal-clear sound that’s loud enough to be heard across the house without being jarring, providing a reliable signal for your dog’s potty breaks.
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Key Features:
- Handcrafted with exquisite and sturdy twisted rope
- Extra-long (35″) with adjustable snap button for all dog sizes
- Large 3.5cm metal bells for loud, clear sound
- Available in various color options
- Simple “Three-Step Easy Training” guide included
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Pros:
- Visually appealing and customizable with color options
- Exceptional length and adjustability for universal fit
- Loud and clear yet pleasant bell sound
- Durable construction
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Cons:
- Rope design might be attractive to chewers (though covered by warranty)
- Requires a doorknob or hook
User Impressions: Pet owners love the aesthetic quality and variety of colors offered by the GINIDEAR bells. The extra length and adjustability are big hits, making them suitable for large breeds. Many users report quick and successful potty training thanks to the clear, audible signal.
10. Comsmart Dog Training Bell, Set of 2 Dog Puppy Pet…
The Comsmart Dog Training Bell offers a straightforward, no-fuss solution for potty training, featuring a classic push-button design. This set of two bells is incredibly easy to use – simply place them on any flat surface, and your puppy or kitten can ring them by tapping the flat button with a paw or nose. A standout feature is the non-skid rubber bottom, which keeps the bells firmly in place on the floor while also protecting your surfaces from scratches. Made with durable metal and cute paw print designs, these portable bells are a versatile tool for various training needs beyond just potty breaks.
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Key Features:
- Non-skid rubber bottom for stability and floor protection
- Easy to use: no installation required, just place on a flat surface
- Durable metal body with cute paw print design
- Portable and compact size
- Multi-purpose for toilet training, therapy games, and more
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Pros:
- Very stable due to non-skid base
- Extremely easy to set up and use
- Durable metal construction
- Portable for training in different locations
- Versatile for various pet training activities
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Cons:
- Sound might not be as loud as some hanging bells
- Small size might be harder for very large dogs to activate consistently
User Impressions: Users highly recommend the Comsmart training bells for their simplicity and effectiveness. The non-skid bottom is a particularly praised feature, preventing the bells from sliding around during enthusiastic ringing. Many found them perfect for quick and easy potty training and even teaching other tricks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Doorbells
Q1: How do dog doorbells work for potty training?
A: Dog doorbells work on the principle of association and positive reinforcement. You teach your dog to touch or ring the bell whenever they need to go outside. Each time they ring the bell and are immediately taken out, they learn that ringing the bell is the way to signal their need to relieve themselves. This replaces undesirable behaviors like barking or scratching at the door.
Q2: How long does it typically take to train a dog to use a doorbell?
A: The training time can vary greatly depending on the dog’s age, temperament, previous training, and your consistency. Some dogs pick it up in a few days, while others might take a few weeks. Consistency is key! Short, positive training sessions several times a day will yield the best results.
Q3: What’s the best age to start potty training with a doorbell?
A: You can start introducing a dog doorbell to puppies as young as 8-10 weeks old, as soon as they begin house training. Older dogs, even those with established habits, can also be successfully trained to use a doorbell, though it might take a bit more patience.
Q4: Are hanging dog doorbells or button-style doorbells better?
A: Neither is inherently “better” – it often comes down to personal preference and what suits your dog.
* Hanging bells are often easier for dogs to grasp initially as they just need to nudge or bat them. They also typically have a louder, more traditional jingle.
* Button bells are great for portability and can be placed at a precise, comfortable height for your dog. They usually offer a distinct “ding” sound and can be less distracting if your dog decides to play with hanging bells.
Q5: My dog rings the doorbell constantly, even when they don’t need to go out. How can I stop this?
A: This is a common “abuse” of the doorbell! To stop it:
1. Only open the door when they truly need to go. If they ring and don’t go potty within a few minutes, bring them back inside immediately. No play or walks for false alarms.
2. Limit rings. If they ring repeatedly without going out, ignore the subsequent rings after the first one.
3. Positive reinforcement for success. Heavily reward them with praise or a small treat only when they ring the bell and then successfully go potty outside. This reinforces the purpose of the bell.
Q6: Can I use a dog doorbell for apartment living, or are they too loud?
A: Yes, dog doorbells can certainly be used in apartments! Many models offer a clear but not overly loud chime that shouldn’t disturb neighbors. If you’re concerned about noise, consider button bells that often have a gentler “ding” than some jingly hanging bells, or look for hanging bells with fewer bells or a softer tone. Positioning the bell away from shared walls can also help.
Q7: Are these doorbells durable enough for a dog that likes to chew?
A: Durability varies by product. Many hanging doorbells are made with heavy-duty nylon straps that are chew-resistant. Button bells, being solid, might be less appealing to chew. However, no product is 100% chew-proof. If your dog is a known chewer, supervise them, especially during the initial training phase, and choose products specifically marketed as highly durable.
Q8: What if my dog is scared of the doorbell sound?
A: If your dog is timid or scared by the sound, start by desensitizing them. Gently touch the bell yourself to make a soft sound, and immediately offer a high-value treat and praise. Repeat this, gradually increasing the sound volume, until your dog associates the sound with positive things. You can also try a button bell, which might have a less startling sound for sensitive pups.