We have our two yorkies bell trained and had this problem a while back. I live in a house and Buster & Bailey go potty out in the backyard, so it's a little different than your situation in an apartment, but I'm guessing the problem is the same - whenever they wanted to go see a bird, squirrel, other dog, kids, etc, they would bonk the bell to go outside. We go for walks and car rides out the front & garage door so their bell is only on the back door where they go potty. I paid a lot of attention to their body language. If they just went out, I would say, "no you just went out, come here" and distract them with a toy, or a snuggle on the couch or something. If they ever looked at their butt (I know!) or just laid or sat down by the door, those were signs that they needed to go potty. Now we're back to them just bonking the bell if they need to go potty. I also learned to NOT force them to come back in, because one time I thought they were done going potty but Bailey just hadn't found her "spot" yet and I made her come in the house & she pooped inside (shame on me!). It takes time to figure them out but you can do it and have some success. Not sure if this helps, but good luck with your training!
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Buster & Bailey's Mom |