I've taught both my yorkies to ring the bell to go outside for potty. They only ring it if they have to either pee or poop. I think it's important to, initially, either leash them outside or keep them in a small area outside so that they can't run and play, they will soon learn that ringing the bell is only for potty. That's what I did. And then gradually I gave them more space and be able to roam the backyard a bit.
I think by me doing that right from the start, the association with the bell and it being only for potty is really strong. It has never turned into a game or a bell to ring just to go play outside. But I worked really hard on this and I didn't have any set backs with training them that behaviour. It's a great thing to teach them. It's so much better than listening to whining or barking, or having to catch them pacing or maybe them waiting quietly at the door, etc.
I don't see any reason why Max can't learn how the bell works and that its just for potty. I say go for it and train him to ring the bell. |