How Can I Get My Dog to Tell Me When She Needs to Go Out?

Question:
My dog knows it is bad to use the bathroom in the house but I can't get her to warn me. How can I get her to let me know when she needs to go out?

A:  One of the most commonly used training tools is a bell hung on the doorknob.

I would recommend getting a large bell (too big for your dog to swallow in one piece) and hang it on the doorknob.  Before you go out, have your dog ring the bell.  Show him/her how to use the bell by ringing it with his/her paw, and ask if he/she wants to go outside.  Over time, your dog will learn that if he/she needs to go out, all they need to do is to ring the bell.  It is a very neat trick and has worked well in many homes. 

~Dr. Page Wages

Oberlin Animal Hospital