Housebreaking is the bane of many a dog owner, and dogs that can't learn to go outside to do their business frequently are turned into shelters and rescue groups.

There are many tips that work, but the bottom line is this: Housebreaking or potty training a dog takes patience, consistency and constant supervision during the process.

Many dogs become accustomed to going outside, especially when you take them out at the same times each day. But a common problem is that many dogs don't let you know when they need to go out right now.

Some will bark at the door. Others will scratch at the door. Those are the easy dogs.

Others will just stand silently at the door. If you don't see them, they'll do their business right there. The tough ones will urinate or defecate wherever they are when the mood strikes them. Some will hide accidents -- behind the furnace or under furniture because, I think, they know at some level that what they are doing is wrong.

Here's a solution to part of the problem, and this tip will have you hearing bells.

Hang a string of bells on the door knob or next to the door. Every time you take the dog out, use a happy tone of voice to give a command like "Let's go out!" Shake the bells as you say this.

I've never used bells, but I've talked to people who have, including a first-time dog owner. The family adopted a dog from a shelter and the staff there gave them the bell tip. They brought the dog into their home right after Christmas, so they used a short leather strap with sleigh bells that had been part of their holiday decor.

They said it worked like a charm and the dog quickly learned to shake the bells when it was time to go out.

Now there's a company that is sending out news releases about a product called Poochie-Bells. The Web site, poochie-pets.net, includes detailed instructions about how use bells to house-break your dog.

The Poochie-Pets site says it has "the only designer doggie doorbell." They offer more than 50 designers styles and colors, or you can personalize a product that suits your dog and your decor. Prices range from $15.95 to $29.95. You order online.

Pet Tales Journal is interested in reader feedback. Do you have any housebreaking tips? Are you having problems with house-breaking? Send me an e-mail and I'll post them.