MauiGirl,
Aw, I just love schnauzers!
My parents had schnauzers most of the time I was growing up, and they'll always hold a special place in my heart.
From what I understand, it's pretty much never too late to start bell training - and certainly under a year isn't too late! Go for it, and let us all know how it goes for you. Just don't forget to be insanely consistent - ALWAYS ring that bell when you guys go out for potty, try to never forget. I'm sure once or twice forgetting won't ruin everything, but consistency sure seems to be super important.
Nikko sure is my special cutie... and up to a certain extent, he does get away with murder - but we are also trying very hard to raise a well-adjusted dog (NOT easy for overprotective, overbearing, overloving first-time parents like us). It's so hard to balance the two sides. BTW, I took a little Japanese and spent a bit of time over there ... I'm pretty sure "cat" in Japanese is Neko, not Niko. I didn't actually know what Nikko meant, I just liked how it sounded, but someone on here on YT kindly told me it was Japanese for "daylight" if I remember right. Nikko sure is my little sunshine.
Lauren & Nikko