How to Train Your Frenchie Like a Pro in Just 7 Days

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to training your French Bulldog (Frenchie) like a pro in just one week! This structured seven-day plan will cover everything from basic obedience and potty training to addressing behavioral issues and enhancing the bond between you and your furry friend. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to having a well-behaved, happy Frenchie.

Day 1: Establishing Routine and Basic Commands

The first step in training your Frenchie is to establish a routine and teach some basic commands. Begin by setting up a predictable schedule that includes feeding times, playtime, and rest periods. Consistency helps your Frenchie understand what to expect next, reducing anxiety and promoting good behavior.

Establish a Feeding Schedule: Feed your Frenchie at the same time every day to regulate their eating habits and help with potty training later.
Introduce Basic Commands: Start with simple commands like ‘sit’ and ‘stay’. Use treats as rewards and keep sessions short but frequent to maintain your Frenchie’s interest.
Positive Reinforcement: Always reward good behavior with praise or treats. Avoid punishment as it can lead to fear and aggression.

Day 2: Potty Training Basics

Potty training is crucial for housebreaking your Frenchie. It requires patience and consistency. Choose a specific area outside where you want your Frenchie to relieve themselves and take them there regularly.

Set a Schedule: Take your Frenchie out every hour initially, then gradually increase the intervals as they show more control.
Use Verbal Cues: Say a phrase like “go potty” when taking them outside. Over time, your Frenchie will associate this command with the action.
Clean Up Mistakes: If accidents happen inside, clean thoroughly to remove any scent that might encourage repeat incidents.

Day 3: Socialization and Bonding

Socializing your Frenchie early is vital for their development. Expose them to different people, animals, and environments in a controlled manner. This helps prevent shyness or aggression towards strangers.

Invite Friends Over: Have friends visit with treats and toys to get your Frenchie used to new faces.
Playdates: Arrange playdates with other dogs under supervision to encourage friendly interactions.
Bonding Exercises: Spend quality time together through walks, games, and cuddles to strengthen your relationship.

Day 4: Addressing Behavioral Issues

Frenchies can sometimes exhibit behaviors such as chewing, barking excessively, or jumping up on furniture. These actions are often due to boredom, anxiety, or seeking attention.

Chewing: Provide appropriate chew toys and redirect unwanted chewing by offering a toy instead.
Barking: Teach a ‘quiet’ command using treats to reward silence. Gradually increase the duration of quietness before giving a treat.
Jumping: Ignore jumps and only give attention when all four paws are on the ground. Reward calm behavior to reinforce the desired response.

Day 5: Advanced Obedience Training

Now that your Frenchie has mastered basic commands, move onto more advanced obedience training. These include commands like ‘come’, ‘leave it’, and ‘heel’. Continue using positive reinforcement techniques.

‘Come’ Command: Practice in a safe, enclosed area. Call your Frenchie by name followed by ‘come’. When they approach, reward them with a treat and lots of praise.
‘Leave It’: Place a treat on the floor and cover it with your hand. Say ‘leave it’ and wait until your Frenchie stops trying to reach it. Once they stop, uncover the treat and give it to them as a reward.
‘Heel’: Walk beside your Frenchie while holding a leash. Encourage them to walk alongside you using treats and verbal cues.

Day 6: Mental Stimulation and Exercise

Frenchies need both physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Incorporate activities that challenge their minds as well as their bodies.

Interactive Toys: Use puzzle toys filled with treats to engage your Frenchie’s problem-solving skills.
Training Games: Play hide-and-seek or fetch to combine physical activity with mental engagement.
Leash Walking: Take daily walks to ensure your Frenchie gets enough exercise while also familiarizing them with the neighborhood.

Day 7: Review and Reinforce

The final day of your training plan involves reviewing everything you’ve learned over the past six days. Reinforce all commands and behaviors through repetition and positive reinforcement.

Consistent Practice: Regularly practice all commands and behaviors to ensure your Frenchie retains what they’ve learned.
Patience and Persistence: Training takes time and effort. Stay patient and persistent even if progress seems slow.
Enjoy the Journey: Celebrate small victories along the way and enjoy the process of building a strong, loving relationship with your Frenchie.

Summary and Encouragement

By following this seven-day training plan, you’ve taken significant steps toward becoming a confident, skilled trainer of your French Bulldog. Remember, consistency is key in dog training. Each day builds upon the previous one, creating a solid foundation for continued learning and growth.

Understanding your Frenchie’s unique needs and responding positively to their behaviors fosters trust and respect. Always remember to celebrate progress and remain patient during setbacks. With dedication and love, you’ll have a well-trained, happy companion who brings joy into your life every day.