American bulldogs are quickly becoming one of the most popular breeds of dogs to own. As adults, they are stocky, large and intelligent, and as puppies, they are cute, sweet and blank slates. Puppyhood is the time to train your bulldog, as the personalities of most American bulldogs are structured and developed when they are puppies. In order to train your American bulldog puppy into a well-behaved, polite adult, follow a few techniques that are specific to this loveable breed.
Things You'll Need
- Treats
- Chew toys
Instructions
Stop your puppy from jumping on you by turning away and saying "no." While it may seem cute that this little puppy wants to jump up on you and those who come into your home, it is a different story when he is a 100-pound adult. If this behavior is not corrected as a puppy, it will travel into adulthood and cause potential danger.
After you have turned away from your puppy, place him into a seated position by grabbing his collar and backing him up until he is on his rear. Praise him with a treat or affection and let him go. If he continues to want to jump up on you or act too excited, turn away from him again and start the process over.
Socialize your American bulldog with other people and friendly dogs. American bulldogs have a tendency to become protective over their families. Therefore, allowing your puppy to see you interact with other people will teach him that not everyone is dangerous and he will learn the difference between those he needs to protect you from and those who are safe. In addition, socializing your puppy with other dogs will allow him to become familiar with other canines. Bulldogs are often aggressive with other dogs and socializing yours at a young age can help to deter that for the future.
Offer your dog a toy to chew on when he wants to "play bite." Puppies naturally bite and chew. However, if this behavior is not corrected when your American bulldog is a puppy, he can grow up to be a 100-pound adult who bites people. In order to prevent this, you must take action while he is a puppy. When he bites you, say "no" and redirect his biting to an object that is appropriate to nibble on. If he does what you ask, reward him to let him know he did a good job.
Earn the respect of your American bulldog by practicing exercises that show him you are in charge. American bulldogs tend to be dominant breeds and will try to establish leadership roles over their owners, unless owners show them first that they are the alphas. Do not allow your puppy to eat unless you give him permission. Furthermore, walk through doors ahead of your American bulldog and always walk side-by-side when on a leash--never let him walk ahead of you and lead the way.