Tips on Potty Training English Bulldogs

Potty training an English bulldog is not that different from any other dog. English bulldogs, while very loyal, can also be extremely stubborn. Establishing a routine and standing ground as the dominant owner will help make the training easier. It is common for puppies to go to the bathroom every half hour, so be committed to supervising and reinforcing positive behavior at all times.

  1. Proper Timing

    • Take the dog outside about 10 or 15 minutes after it finishes eating and directly after sleeping, play time or drinking a lot of water. A routine is very important for puppies: food, potty, play time, potty, nap, potty, repeat. Point the dog to the same place every time you go outside. After the dog goes to the bathroom, provide positive reinforcement such as patting on the head or belly, treats or verbal cues. Negative reinforcement usually will not change a dog's behavior. Do not hit the dog if it is not behaving in the way you would like. A stern "No" or "Stop" should help terminate any unwanted behavior over time.

    Crate Training

    • A crate helps prevent the dog from going to the bathroom inside the house or chewing on household items while you are not home or cannot directly supervise the dog. It is not common for a dog to go to the bathroom inside the crate, as it will not relieve itself where it sleeps. Choose a crate that is big enough for the dog to turn around and lay down. If the crate is too big, the dog will relieve itself in the corner of the crate. Place a T-shirt or another soft item with your scent to help comfort the dog if it is having difficulty getting used to the crate. Never use the crate as a form of punishment.

    Apartment Living

    • Taking the dog outside multiple times a day is not always possible for some people, especially when living in a high rise building. Create a designated area in your home for the dog to go to the bathroom. Use a pan or box layered with newspaper or potty training pads available at your local pet store. Follow the same rules stated before regarding positive and negative reinforcement. If a dog has an accident outside of his designated area, pick it up and take it to the designated area as quickly as possible. Praise the dog if it relieves itself in the area.

    Common Problems

    • It is a common problem that the dog will not always go to the bathroom when you want it to. Return the dog to its crate if it does not relieve himself during designated potty times.

      Territory marking can be a problem for many dogs and their owners. Your dog may want to pee on the legs of chairs or tables or in corners. This is a behavior that may prove difficult to modify. Neutering your dog and removing all traces of urine smell with pet cleaner helps reduce the frequency of the behavior.