Training your French Bulldog in basic obedience not only improves their behavior—it strengthens your bond and keeps them safer in everyday life. While Frenchies are intelligent, they can also be a little stubborn. That’s why training needs to be positive, consistent, and full of patience.
Let’s walk through the most important basic commands and how to teach them to your Frenchie, even if you’re just starting from scratch.
1. Why Training Is Important for French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are naturally affectionate and people-oriented, but they benefit from clear structure. Without it, they may become pushy, demanding, or develop bad habits like jumping, ignoring you, or darting off on walks.
Benefits of obedience training:
- Improves communication and trust
- Builds confidence and mental stimulation
- Prevents behavioral problems
- Strengthens your leadership role
Training is also a great form of enrichment—Frenchies love challenges when rewards are involved!
2. How French Bulldogs Learn Best
Frenchies are motivated by food, praise, and fun—but not by harsh discipline. They thrive with short sessions, a light-hearted tone, and lots of treats.
Tips:
- Keep sessions 5–10 minutes, 1–2 times per day
- Use small, soft treats they love
- Choose a quiet, distraction-free area
- End each session on a positive note—even if it’s just one successful command
Avoid punishment or frustration. If something isn’t working, break it down into smaller steps.
3. Teaching “Sit”
“Sit” is one of the easiest and most useful commands—it lays the foundation for many others.
Steps:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move the treat up and back, over their head.
- As their head follows the treat, their butt will naturally lower.
- The moment they sit, say “Yes!” or “Good!” and give the treat.
- Repeat several times, then begin saying “Sit” before the motion.
Practice this every day for a week, then try in different rooms and eventually outside.
4. Teaching “Stay”
Once your Frenchie can sit, you can begin teaching them to stay in place until released.
Steps:
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Hold your palm out (like a “stop” sign) and say “Stay.”
- Wait 1–2 seconds, then reward them.
- Gradually increase the time before the reward.
- Add distance and distractions slowly.
Always return to your dog to give the treat—this helps reinforce the idea that staying gets rewarded.
5. Teaching “Come”
“Come” is one of the most critical safety commands. It should always be associated with something positive.
Steps:
- Start in a quiet room or hallway.
- Crouch down and say “Come!” in an excited voice.
- Open your arms and offer a treat.
- Praise and reward immediately when they reach you.
- Use a long leash outdoors for practice in safe areas.
Never use “Come” to scold your dog—it should always be followed by good things.
6. Teaching “Leave It”
This command helps your dog avoid dangerous or unwanted items on the ground.
Steps:
- Hold a treat in a closed fist.
- Let your Frenchie sniff or paw at it. Say “Leave it.”
- Wait until they stop trying and look away—even briefly.
- Reward them with a different treat from your other hand.
- Repeat, and then practice with items on the floor.
Gradually work up to more tempting objects (like toys or food), always rewarding with something better.
7. Teaching “Down”
“Down” is great for calming your dog and improving self-control.
Steps:
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Hold a treat at their nose, then slowly move it down toward the floor and forward.
- As they follow, their elbows should lower.
- The moment they lie down, say “Down” and reward.
- Be patient—it can take a few tries.
Use soft surfaces like a rug or mat to encourage comfort during training.
8. Use a Release Word
Once your dog is in a position like sit or stay, they need a word to tell them they’re free to move.
Good release words:
- “Okay!”
- “Free!”
- “All done!”
Always use the release word consistently after each command so your Frenchie learns when the exercise is finished.
9. Practice in Real Life
Once your dog knows a command indoors, try it:
- In different rooms
- Outside in your yard or on walks
- Around mild distractions (like music, toys, or other dogs)
This is called proofing—it helps your Frenchie understand that commands apply everywhere, not just at home.
10. Be Patient and Celebrate Progress
French Bulldogs may not learn as fast as working breeds, but with consistency, they’ll surprise you. Focus on small wins, and remember every step forward is a success.
Celebrate by:
- Ending each session with play or cuddles
- Offering a jackpot of treats for major breakthroughs
- Practicing during daily routines—before meals, walks, or bedtime
Training should be fun for both of you!
Conclusion: A Well-Trained Frenchie Is a Happy Frenchie
Teaching your French Bulldog basic commands is one of the best gifts you can give them. It keeps them safe, builds confidence, and helps them become a polite and balanced family member. With consistency, patience, and love, your Frenchie will master the basics and maybe even surprise you with a few extra tricks.