I think they train us. I bought poochie-bells for the door so Natalie could tell us when she had to go out. I was hoping if it was fun for her it would help with her potty training. She loves the bells, she rings them and as soon as I show up, she looks at me, grabs a bite of her food and runs off. As soon as I sit down she rings again. I guess my training is coming along well.