Potty-training is frustrating for all dog owners. Accidents are expected, especially for puppies. Luckily, the French bulldog is a clean breed that avoids accidents, so consistent training will have yours eliminating solely outside in a matter of weeks.
Step 1
Create a schedule with regular eating and potty times. The Humane Society recommends taking your dog outside immediately after waking up, after playing and after eating or drinking. Remove food between meals so your dog knows to eat when food is available. Remove your dog's water dish at least two hours before bedtime.
Step 2
Confine your frenchie if you can't provide supervision. Limit your dog to a crate or small blocked-off area. Frenchies are a clean breed and will avoid eliminating in their sleeping area. Puppies under 12 weeks old do not have complete bladder control and can hold waste only for the same number of hours as his age in months plus 1, according to the ASPCA.
Step 3
Watch for warning signs that your French bulldog needs to potty. Warning signs include circling the room, pacing from room to room, sniffing, whining, barking or simply staring. If you see these warning signs, immediately take your frenchie outside to eliminate.
Step 4
Teach the “go potty” command. As soon as your French bulldog starts eliminating, say “go potty” and once he finishes, praise him with a treat while still outside. Wait until the dog is completely finished or he may finish in the house. Before long, you'll say, “go potty,” and your dog will know what's expected before he starts eliminating.
Step 5
Clean indoor accidents thoroughly to eliminate urine and feces odors. If your dog smells waste in the house, he is likely to frequent this spot to go potty. If your frenchie poops in the home, place the feces in the appropriate area of the yard so your dog smells it next time he goes outside.
Step 6
Take your dog outside on a leash and bring him to the same spot every time. This helps your frenchie become aware of approved potty areas.
