Dog Training Secrets

The bulldog is a breed that was originally developed for fighting. Bulldogs are mean looking dogs with a gentle heart. They are medium sized with a smooth coat and a heavy body. They have small pudgy sturdy legs and a massive short-faced head. They seem to have a permanent scowl on their face and thus look ferocious to many. Because of their temperament and physical attributes, they require specific training.

• Physical differences
  They are very loyal, but are more difficult to train than other dogs, as they are known to be rather stubborn. Bulldogs are not good at running, and are most likely to waddle along than run at high speeds. They have weak lung capacities due to their distinctive nose and chest, and therefore get breathless after a short while of energetic play. Just like any other dog requires long walks regularly, so do bulldogs. Furthermore, bulldogs are not fast enough at learning new tricks. So, how do you begin training your stiff and stubborn bulldog? Let’s start with the basics.

• Potty training
  Place your bulldog in a pen. Put newspapers in one section to demark that as his toilet and keep his crate on one side. Dogs usually do not like to spoil their sleep areas so he will use the “toilet” for his natures call. You can clear away the soiled newspaper, taking care to leave some of that paper as a reminder for his place. Once he gets used to this method, you can take him out of the holding area. Remember to carry some of that newspaper so that you can show him he can relieve himself. Placing the dog in a pen for such long periods may seem cruel to you, but remember that bulldogs can be well..too bull headed! They learn the hard way.

• Sit, stay, and go
  Here too you have to be extremely repetitive and firm. While other dogs may learn these commands faster, a bulldog will take his own sweet time. But positive reinforcement will eventually help him learn.

• Alternate rewards
  Bulldogs can be very indifferent to your efforts if they want to. They easily get bored of the same treats and toys though they are creatures of habit. To keep him interested in training, try alternating treats to reward him. You can use different foods and treats, toys praises and so on for positive reinforcement.

• Consistency
  Bulldogs love to follow a routine. So, the first step in training is consistency they like to take their walks at the same time everyday, like their food on time and in the same place. Even quality time with them should be on the same time every day. Bulldogs can get anxious if their routine is broken even for a day.

Bulldogs are generally very gentle and silent pets who like children and get along very well with them unlike other small breeds. They are like old grouchy people who only like to keep you company as long as you keep them out of exhausting games. Work around these minuses and you will have a perfectly obedient bulldog for yourself.