Jessica
At WeLovePetz, we are dedicated to providing you with the best pet care tips.
Introduction: The End of Scratching and Barking?
Potty training is arguably the most frustrating phase of dog ownership. You miss the subtle signs, and suddenly there is a puddle on the rug. Or worse, your dog learns to scratch the expensive paint off your back door to signal they need to go out. The BLUETREE Dog Doorbell offers a simple, analog solution to this communication gap.
The concept is ancient but effective: teach the dog to ring a bell instead of barking or scratching. But are all bells created equal? Some are too quiet to hear from the next room, while others fall apart after a week of enthusiastic pawing. We tested the BLUETREE model, with its 7 extra-large bells and adjustable strap, to see if it stands up to the paws of a determined puppy.
Key Features and Design Analysis
It looks like a simple strap with bells, but the devil is in the details. Here is why this specific design is a bestseller.
7 Extra-Large Loud Bells
Most cheap training bells use small, craft-store quality jingles that barely make a sound. BLUETREE uses 1.4-inch diameter bells. They are loud. Not “annoying alarm” loud, but crisp and resonant enough to be heard from the second floor or the basement. The cluster of 7 bells ensures that even a gentle nose boop creates a distinct sound.
3-Level Adjustable Length
Not all dogs are the same height, and not all doorknobs are placed equally. This strap features snaps that allow you to adjust the length. This is crucial.
- Short Setting: For tall dogs (keeps bells from dragging).
- Long Setting: For puppies or small breeds (ensures bells are reachable near the floor).
Durability: Heavy Duty Nylon
The strap is made from thick, woven nylon, similar to a high-quality dog leash. This is important because puppies will try to chew it or tug on it during the learning phase. It feels robust enough to withstand incidental chewing, though it is not a chew toy.
Hands-On Experience: The Training Test
We installed this on the back door for “Cooper,” a 4-month-old Golden Retriever who was struggling to signal his needs.
Installation and Setup
It loops around any standard doorknob or handle. Installation takes 5 seconds. We adjusted it to the middle length so the bells hung right at Cooper’s nose level. It didn’t slide off the handle when the door opened and closed, which is a common annoyance with lighter straps.
The Learning Curve
The “3 Simple Steps” training method works, but it requires consistency.
- Touch: We taught Cooper to touch the bells with his nose for a treat.
- Ring: We rang the bells every time we opened the door for a potty break.
- Repeat: After about 5 days, the connection clicked.
Durability Check
Cooper is an enthusiastic ringer. He paws at the bells vigorously. After two weeks of abuse, the silver coating on the bells is still shiny, and the nylon strap shows no fraying. The snaps holding the length adjustment have stayed secure without popping open.
Pros and Cons
Is this the right training tool for you? Here is our honest assessment.
| Pros (The Good) | Cons (The Bad) |
|---|---|
| Loud & Clear: Easy to hear from other rooms. | Get Stuck in Door: Can occasionally get caught in the jamb if door closes fast. |
| Adjustable: Fits puppies and adults perfectly. | False Alarms: Smart dogs learn to ring it just to go play outside. |
| Durable: Nylon strap withstands scratching. | Noise: It rings every time the door opens, even when you use it. |
| Easy Install: No drilling or adhesive required. | Chew Risk: While tough, persistent chewers could damage the strap. |
| Value: Incredibly affordable solution. |
Product Comparison
How does BLUETREE compare to other potty training signals?
| Feature | BLUETREE Bells (Our Pick) | Electronic Smart Bell | Scratch Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | 🔔 Physical Bells | 🔊 Touch Sensor | 🪵 Wood/Sandpaper |
| Power | 🚫 None Needed | 🔋 Batteries/Plug | 🚫 None Needed |
| Durability | 💪 High | ⚠️ Medium (Electronics) | 💪 High |
| Volume | 🔊 Loud Jingle | 🔊 Adjustable Chime | 🔉 Scratching Sound |
| Price Tier | 💰 Budget | 💰💰💰 Premium | 💰 Mid-Range |
Final Verdict
The BLUETREE Dog Doorbells are a must-have for any new puppy owner. For the price of a fancy coffee, you get a durable, effective communication tool that can save your carpets (and your sanity). It is louder and more adjustable than generic pet store versions, making it suitable for any home setup.
We highly recommend it for puppies and dogs transitioning to a new home. Just be prepared for the “false alarms”—once your dog realizes the bell is a magic “open door” button, you will need to be strict about only opening it for potty time!
