Ask the Trainer - Outwitted by a French Bulldog Puppy!
gollygear May 21st, 2008
Hi Hope,
We just brought home our 12 wk old male Frenchie. Our lively little guy, Max is out smarting us at every hop on potty training. I see his signs, the sniffing around and he’s going in the same places.
Thankfully, not carpeted areas! Before I foul this up completely, how best do you potty train a Frenchie?
If you could recommend a particular book that the whole family could read, I would appreciate that just as well as any advice you can lend.
Thank you
Hope writes -
Congratulations on the new member of your family. I love your description of Max - especially “at every hop.” It’s a very Frenchie thing, isn’t it?
There’s a saying in dog training that “every dog is trained to his owner’s level of comfort.” We all may have different opinions about dogs on the furniture, dogs begging at the table, etc. Everyone agrees on one aspect of training - potty training.
It is essential that Max hears one consistent voice on this. Every member of the family has to abide by the rules. If Max is not being actively watched - he’s in his crate. At the first sign of circling, sniffing, etc. - out he goes, on collar and leash. And you stand in the place you’ve chosen for his potty. No playing, no joking around. Tell him “go potty” or another phrase you choose. When he’s accomplished his mission, say “good go potty” and give him a treat. Then you and Max can play.
If you have no luck in 10 minutes - back into the crate he goes. And goes back outside in 15 minutes. Same routine.
As you become familiar with Max’s schedule, you can allow slightly more freedom. Put on his harness or collar and leash and knot the leash to your belt loop. He can follow you around the house as you go through your day, but he’s never out of your sight and never allowed to wander off on his own.
I know that having a puppy can severely crimp your style at first. Many things around the house may not get done while you’re actively paying attention to Max. But it’s well worth it - consider it part of bonding with the baby. The more time and energy you put into training now, the less you’ll have to do later. And you’ll have a wonderful Frenchie companion who will be welcome wherever you go.
We like the book “Outwitting Dogs
Best of luck with little Max!
Hope
- French Bulldog Training
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