How to Train a Stubborn French Bulldog: Expert Tips

French bulldogs aren't actually stubborn—they're selective listeners who need the right motivation and approach. After training hundreds of Frenchies over the years, I've found they respond best to short, engaging sessions with high-value rewards and consistent boundaries.

Understanding Your French Bulldog's Training Mindset

Frenchies were bred to be companions, not working dogs like Border Collies or Labs. This means they don't have that intense drive to please that makes some breeds easier to train. Instead, they're thinking "What's in it for me?" every step of the way.

Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure also means they overheat quickly and can't handle long training sessions. I typically keep sessions to 5-7 minutes maximum, especially in warm weather. Any longer and you'll lose their attention completely.

Most importantly, Frenchies are incredibly food-motivated. I've seen dogs that wouldn't respond to praise or toys suddenly become eager students when the right treats appeared. We're talking freeze-dried liver, tiny pieces of cooked chicken, or high-quality training treats—not basic kibble.

The 3-Step Frenchie Training Method

Step 1: Find Their Currency (Week 1)

Before teaching any commands, spend a week discovering what truly motivates your Frenchie. Try different treats during regular interactions—not formal training sessions yet. Note which ones make their eyes light up and which they'll work hardest for.

I keep a "treat hierarchy" list for each dog I work with. For most Frenchies, it looks something like: freeze-dried liver (jackpot reward), small pieces of cheese, commercial training treats, then regular kibble at the bottom.

Step 2: Master the Foundation Commands

Sit: Hold the high-value treat just above their nose, slowly move it back over their head. As their bottom hits the ground, say "sit" and immediately reward. Practice 3-4 repetitions, then take a break. Frenchies typically master this in 2-3 days with consistent practice.

Stay: Start with sit, then hold your palm out like a stop sign while taking one small step back. Wait 2 seconds, return, and reward. Gradually increase distance and duration. This usually takes 1-2 weeks to solidify.

Come: Never call your Frenchie to come for something unpleasant. Start in a small, enclosed space with high-value treats. Get excited, say "come" once, and reward generously when they approach. Practice this daily for at least 3 weeks.

Step 3: Proof the Behaviors

Once your Frenchie knows the commands in quiet settings, gradually add distractions. Practice sits during mealtime preparation, stays while you're putting on shoes, and recalls during mild distractions like kids playing nearby.

What If It's Not Working?

If your Frenchie still seems "stubborn" after 2-3 weeks of consistent training, here's what I investigate:

Health issues: Frenchies are prone to spinal problems (IVDD) and hip dysplasia. If they're reluctant to sit or lie down, have them checked by a vet. I've seen dogs labeled as "stubborn" who were actually in pain.

Environmental factors: Is it too hot? Too noisy? Too many distractions? Frenchies need calm, comfortable environments to focus. I often start training indoors in a quiet room.

Timing problems: Are you training right after meals when they're sleepy? Right before walks when they're excited? Find the sweet spot—usually 30-60 minutes after meals when they're alert but not hyperactive.

Reward value mismatch: That treat you think is amazing might be boring to your dog. I once worked with a Frenchie who only responded to tiny pieces of rotisserie chicken skin. Whatever works!

Common Training Mistakes With French Bulldogs

The biggest mistake I see owners make is treating Frenchies like Labradors—expecting them to work for praise alone or handle 20-minute training sessions. They're not built that way physically or mentally.

Another common error is inconsistency with commands. If sometimes "down" means lie down and sometimes it means get off the couch, you're confusing your dog. Everyone in the household needs to use the same words for the same behaviors.

Many owners also give up too quickly. Frenchies often have a "testing phase" around week 2-3 where they'll ignore commands they clearly know. Stay consistent, keep rewarding good behavior, and don't repeat commands multiple times—this teaches them they don't need to listen the first time.

Age and Individual Differences

Puppies under 4 months have tiny attention spans—we're talking 2-3 minutes maximum. Focus on basic house training and simple sits rather than complex commands.

Senior Frenchies (7+ years) might move slower due to joint issues, but they're often more focused than younger dogs. Adjust your expectations for physical commands but maintain mental stimulation.

Some Frenchies are naturally more independent than others. I've worked with dogs from the same litter where one was eager to please and the other needed significant motivation for every single command. It's not stubbornness—it's personality.

Building Long-Term Success

The key to training any French bulldog is understanding that consistency beats intensity every time. Short, positive sessions done daily will always outperform marathon training weekends followed by weeks of nothing.

Keep training fun and varied. Frenchies get bored with repetition faster than most breeds. Mix up locations, rewards, and even the order of commands to keep them engaged.

Remember that Frenchies are people-focused dogs. They want to be part of your daily routine, not isolated for formal training sessions. Incorporate command practice into regular activities—sits before meals, stays before opening doors, recalls in the backyard.

For personalized guidance tailored to your specific French bulldog's personality and challenges, our AI Dog Trainer can provide customized training plans and troubleshoot specific issues you're facing with your pup.