Every Frenchie owner knows trying to potty train a puppy is no easy task. There are many factors that play into successful potty training, such as feeding schedules, rewards, and one of the most important things, setting a pattern.
Setting a Pattern
Setting a schedule is probably one of the most important steps you need to take in order to properly potty train a puppy. Setting a schedule will help your Frenchie pup learn when it’s time to eat, sleep, play and eliminate.
We all know puppy bladders are hard to control, so having a schedule will help you better plan out bathroom breaks. For the most part, a puppy can hold his bladder for about one hour for every month he is old. So, a two-month-old puppy can hold it in for about two hours. If you wait any longer than that, you’re asking for an accident. If you work outside the home, be sure to arrange for someone to give your Frenchie their breaks. There is also the 15-minute rule. If your Frenchie is 8-12 weeks old this “rule” will be very effective. In raising two Frenchie’s, I have found that approximately 15 minutes after eating or drinking there would be an accident. So, after the allotted time, I would keep a closer eye on the pups and make sure they were eliminating on their pee pads!
Motivate Him with Fun
There’s nothing better than a yummy treat to motivate a puppy to do something. Using treats and praise helps when potty training a Frenchie pup. After he has finished, reward them with praise, a treat, and playtime. Remember to do this consistently and immediately after he’s finished and when you are still outdoors. This step is very important because it’s the only way your French Bulldog know what you expect.
Make sure they are finished before you reward them. Praising your Frenchie too soon may excite him enough to stop in the middle of his business and then complete the job when he’s back in the house.
Accidents Happen
Like any small creature, accidents can happen. It’s a normal part of training a puppy. If you catch your Frenchie in the act of soiling in the house, say “OUTSIDE” and immediately grab the leash and take him to his favorite potty spot. After he finishes, praise him and give him a treat, but only if he finishes outside.
To help prevent accidents inside you will have to clean the area really well using Bleach or Clorox wipes to keep your Frenchie from soiling in that same area.
Paper Training
If you must leave your French pup alone for long periods of time, confine him to an area with enough room to sleep and play, along with a separate place to eliminate. Use a puppy pee pad with a floor protector in this area for your convenience!
