7 Best Dog Doorbells for Housetraining: Let ’em Ring when They Gotta Go!

Last Updated: May 15, 2023

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Finally getting across that huge housebreaking hurdle and watching your pup doing their business outside can be a very proud moment. But there's no denying that it can sometimes be a nightmare to get there! 

Housetraining is no easy task. Even if you do get things right, there are no guarantees that your dog will always wait until you're ready to open the door. Accidents happen all the time. Unfortunately, dogs can't verbalize that they need to "go" beyond a bark or whine. 

But what if they had a tool to get the message across?

Dog Doorbellsattached to the door for Housetraining

The best dog doorbell can do just that! Instead of sitting at the door anxiously waiting for your attention, your pup can ring that doorbell and get your attention in an instant!

It's a gadget that both you and your dog can benefit from. Your pup won't have to hold it in and wait so long. Meanwhile, you'll have far fewer messes to clean up!

Dog doorbells are a unique training tool that your canine companion can use for the rest of their life. So, it's important to take some time and find the best one for your home.

To make things easier for you, here's a collection of some of the best dog doorbells for housetraining.

7 of the Best Dog Doorbells to Potty / Housetrain your Dog

1. Mighty Paw Tinkle Bells Dog Doorbells, Solid

Mighty Paw Tinkle Bells Dog Doorbells, Solid

This doorbell from Mighty Paw might be simple, but it's a very effective training tool. The doorbell is comprised of a thick nylon strap and several silver bells. The entire unit measures about 24 inches long and features a loop at the end. Thus, it's the perfect length for handing on a door handle.

For added protection, the nylon material is very durable. It has reinforced stitching and rivets. The bells are tough, too. They have thick sidewalls to prevent denting. The design also ensures that the tone rings clear throughout your home.


2. PoochieBells Proudly The Original & 100% American Made Dog Potty Doorbell

PoochieBells Proudly The Original & 100% American Made Dog Potty Doorbell, Doggie Dialogue Collection

From PoochieBells is this handcrafted doorbell. It's a traditional design that features a long nylon band. The band is looped on one end, allowing you to simply hand it off the doorbell. It hangs about 26 inches down. So, it's a great choice for dogs big and large.

The custom bells are placed at the bottom of the nylon band and in the middle. There's also a metal tag at the top of the loop. The bells aren't your average craft store fare. They're custom made. PoochieBells designed the bells to have a loud ring that you can hear easily.


3. Caldwell's Potty Bells Original Dog Doorbell

Caldwell's Potty Bells Original Dog Doorbell, Blue

With a total of six bells, you won't have any trouble hearing this doorbell. The large bells are built tough. The tiny ball inside strikes the sides very loudly, producing a rich and audible tone. The strap of the bells is pretty durable too. It's also made of nylon. However, the nylon strap features a thick weave that can withstand some serious rining.

Like most traditional doorbells, this unit features a detachable loop. A strong clasp closure makes it easy to wrap around even thick doorknobs.


4. Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 Potty Training Dog Doorbell, White

Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 Potty Training Dog Doorbell, White, 2 count

Here's another great option from Mighty Paw. However, this one is electronic. It's a two-piece set. The receiver features a loudspeaker that you can quickly adjust with a press of a button. It features four volume levels and 38 different tones. You can customize it to ensure that you can hear it anywhere.

The receiver plugs directly into a standard household outlet. Meanwhile, the activator doorbell button doesn't require any power at all. Just mount it next to your door. It's a pushbutton system that only takes 0.75 of pressure to activate.


5. Mighty Paw Metal Brass Tinkle Bell Dog Doorbell, Silver

Mighty Paw Metal Brass Tinkle Bell Dog Doorbell, Silver

What's simpler than an old-fashioned bell? This system is incredibly easy to mount and use. It features a strong iron support bracket. All it takes it two screws to place it next to your door.

Hanging off of the support is a thick brass bell. The walls of the bell help to create a nice rich tone that you can hear from anywhere in the home. The bracket is designed in such a way that it flexes pretty easily. It springs into action whenever your dog touches it, keeping them safe.


6. Li'l Pals Dog Potty Training Bells, 27-in

Li'l Pals Dog Potty Training Bells, 27-in

This doorbell from Li'l Pals is best suited for smaller dogs. It's not made out of the toughest materials. However, it is soft and frilly enough to keep even the most pampered pooch happy.

It's a traditional doorbell that hangs on the doorknob. The cool thing about this particular doorbell is that it's designed to look like a toy. It's brightly colored and features a soft doorbell plus. The design entices your dog to play with it, which could make the training process a bit easier.


7. GoGo Dog Door Bell Deluxe with Solid Brass Bell for Loud Clear Tone

Dog Doorbell - GoGo Bell Deluxe with Solid Brass Bell for Loud Clear Tone

Looking for something a bit more classic in design? Check out this dog doorbell. It's quite simple, featuring a solid brass bell and a tough metal hanging bracket. The base of the bracket can be attached to the wall with two screws.

A thin piece of flat metal arches downward with the weight of the bell, providing a lot of flexibility when your dog rings it. Thanks to the solid brass construction of the bell, the tone is very clear and loud.


How Does a Dog Doorbell Work?

These little training tools work just like any other doorbell! They're meant to make a sound so that you know when your pup needs to go out. Typically, they're placed on the inside of your home next to the door that you use to let your pup out to go potty.

However, you can also place one outside whenever your pooch is ready to come back inside.

Designs for dog doorbells can vary a bit. You can have an advanced model that uses push-button technology and a speaker. Or, you can get a relatively archaic option that acts like jingle bells. We'll get into that a bit later.

Regardless of how the doorbell actually works, the goal is to implement it into your training. Dogs are smart creatures. With a little bit of encouragement and positive reinforcement, they'll eventually make that connection.

Before you know it, your dog will be ringing that bell multiple times a day to be let out, making your job much easier.

Types of Doorbells Available

There are two different types of dog doorbells available on the market. They both work very well, so the best option for you will depend entirely on your needs and how you want to approach training.

Electronic Doorbells

If you're looking for a high-tech solution, electronic doorbells are the way to go. Essentially, these operate the exact same way as a wireless home doorbell. You have a trigger button and a speaker. The difference is that the doorbell button is designed for a dog to use.

That means that the doorbell is large enough to be pushed by a small paw or nose. The button will need to be placed relatively low to the ground next to your door. The speaker can be placed anywhere, which is quite handy.

The Mighty Paw Dog Electronic Doorbell

The biggest benefit of an electronic doorbell is that they usually offer more flexibility. Some models come with different sounds, which could be useful if you're trying to find a sound that cuts through typical home noise.

Another big perk is that you can place the speaker system where you need it.

Now, not every model is going to come with a dedicated speaker unit. Some have the speaker built into the button. However, those that do have a speaker allow you to place it in a room that you have difficulty hearing in.

Say, for example, that your dog isn't allowed upstairs. You could place the speaker upstairs so that your pup can alert you even when you're out of sight.

The disadvantage of an electronic unit is that you will need power. This could be a dedicated outlet or replaceable batteries. It all depends on the product itself.

Traditional Door Chimes

The most basic version of a dog doorbell is just chimes on a rope! These doorbells feature bells that jingle at the slightest touch. To trigger it, your dog would either paw at the rope or use their snout to ring it.

dog ringing a dog door bell chime

These doorbells simply hang at a comfortable height for your dog. Some come with dedicated wall mounts while others simply loop over the door handle.

Either way, they're still quite easy for dogs to use.

The advantage of a simpler doorbell is that they're built tough. Most utilize high-quality materials like metal jingle bells and leather. They're also non-powered. Thus, you don't have to worry about constantly replacing batteries.

The disadvantage of these doorbells is that they can be quite limited. You can only put them in one place. If you're on the opposite side of your home, you might not hear the ring when your dog is ready for potty time.

Important Considerations When Choosing a Dog Doorbell

These may be rare training tools, but you'll still find tons of options on the market! Not every doorbell is going to work for your home and dog, so it's important to take some time thinking about your situation. Here are some things to consider.

Available Sounds

The sound that your doorbell makes is going to be one that you hear multiple times a day for several years! The last thing you want to do is choose something that's super grating.

Ultimately, this is all about personal preference. Would you rather have a pleasant bell chime or something a bit more high-pitched?

Another important thing to keep in mind is how it's going to cut through the noise in your home. While it might be unpleasant, sometimes a high-pitched tone is better.

Those high-frequency noises can cut through the noise from the television, people talking, and more

Range of Sound

How big is your home? Will you be able to hear the dog doorbell from every room in the house? This is where finding the right doorbell can get tricky. Traditional bell-based products aren't that loud.

Of course, your dog can go ham and make the bell ring incessantly, but it defeats the whole purpose.

Electronic systems usually have adjustable volumes. Plus, you can place speakers anywhere if it's a dedicated unit.

Safety Features

This is something your pup will be interacting with regularly. It's crucial that they can use it comfortably without any risk for injury. I know what you're thinking. How can a dog hurt itself on a doorbell?

Well, it's completely possible with a wall-mounted hanging unit. Your dog could easily snag their paw in loose material or even hurt themselves on the mount!

Pay close attention to the mounting hardware that's included. For hanging doorbells, a sturdy mount with some flexibility is a must. Make sure that the bell has some recoil so that your dog isn't getting snagged.

Also, examine the bells themselves. Is there a chance that your dog could get a nail stuck in them? Electronic systems aren't without their issues. 

Any powered product poses a risk for shock. If your dog were to press their wet paw against the doorbell, will the electric components do any damage?

Look for sealed doorbells that are built to withstand all the messes dogs bring with them.

How to Train Your Dog to Use a Dog Doorbell

A doorbell is only going to be effective if your pup knows how to use it! Luckily, the process isn't as difficult as you might think.

Anything that makes noise is going to be enticing for young pups, so the trick is to create a connection between going outside and making that noise.

Start off by introducing the doorbell to your dog before you install it in its final place. Get them familiar with the noise it makes and how it moves. Then, teach them to ring it on command. Use the same techniques you would with potty training or tricks.

Positive reinforcement is always good. Never yell at your dog or hit them. Whenever they successfully ring the bell, reward them.

Now, move the doorbell next to your door. Using positive reinforcement, teach your dog to ring it in the new location. At this point, you need to show your dog that ringing the bell means that they get to go outside.

To do this, have them ring the bell before you let them out. Eventually, they'll understand that connection and start using the doorbell every time.

Conclusion

Dogs are smart, so why not use their intelligence to your advantage? Dog doorbells have a lot to offer. They're not just for young puppies. Even adult dogs can be taught to use them.

Give one these doorbells a try. You'll be surprised at how efficient it can make potty time.

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About the author 

Steve

Steve is a writer with over 10 years of experience in dog training and nutritiion.

His goal is to educate dog owners about the ins and outs of canine behavior as well as keeping up with the latest scientific research in the field.