Well, I wanted to update again on the progress of my outside potty training. I am happy to say that they have not had an accident in 2 months.
Also, they are no longer using their crates. Even at night. They are sleeping in bed with me. Which is really different since I've never had a dog sleep in my bed. But I did get a portable completely enclosed exercise pen for them when we need to leave the house. I trust them when I am home, but it will be a little while before I can trust them while we are out. They'll get there. Also, they don't ring the bell still, but they do pace by the door. But just to make sure, if they don't do to the door, I let them out every 3 hours.