How To Train Your English Bulldog Puppy
You’re probably aware that English bulldogs are notoriously difficult to train. They can be stubborn, lazy, and downright uncooperative, which can make training a challenge. Still, it doesn’t have to be that challenging! There are things you can do to manage a bulldog’s obstinacy so you–and your dog–can be happy while training.
Crate Training
You might think it’s cruel to keep your dog in a crate. After all, it resembles a cage. But training your puppy to sleep in a crate is actually good for him and provides a living situation similar to that in the wild. Keeping your dog in a crate also keeps him away from household objects that he can chew or destroy, and makes potty training much easier.
Potty Training
Like children, potty training a puppy is no walk in the park. You can’t expect to potty train your dog overnight, yet you can’t keep finding “presents” under your bed, either. Proper potty training requires patience, consistency, rewards, proper steps, and lots of commitment.
There are several practices you can follow to potty train your dog. Remember crate training? Good, because it’s going to come in handy here. Since dogs will not urinate or defecate in their living space, crating your dog will train him to not urinate or defecate inside. In addition to crate training, develop a potty training routine. Within fifteen minutes of feeding your dog, take him outside to the same spot each time. When your dog goes to the bathroom, praise him. To avoid accidents, observe your puppy’s behavior. If you see him smelling a particular spot or circling around it, pick him up and take him outside. Always remember to praise your dog if he does his business outside
For more in-depth info on house training your bulldog puppy click here.
Leashes and Walks
It is very important to get your dog used to leashes. For starters, you will have to take your dog to a vet. Obviously, your dog needs to go on walks as well. To get your dog used to a leash so he doesn’t pull or bite at it, ease him into it.
Start introducing your dog to the leash when he’s around eight weeks old. Attach a small leash to his harness while he roams around the house. Later, start to pick up the leash up and follow him with it in your hand. But do not pull or jerk at it. Once he’s used to the leash, start walking him. Begin slowly at first by taking a few steps forward and praising him when he follows. When your dog pulls against the leash, stop walking and wait. Once he masters this, take him on longer walks outside.
Training an English bulldog takes time and consistency, but with the proper steps, it can be done. Dogs function best with structure, routine, and clear expectations. Add a little love and a few laughs, and training won’t be as bad as it seems.
