Frenchie puppies are adorable bundles full of energy, curiosity, and a large dose of mischief. The secret to surviving those first months? Starting training early. It gives them the solid foundation they need to become a happy, relaxed, and well-behaved family member. 

This guide, written by our vets, walks you through those important steps, from the first essential "sit" commands to establishing the good habits that shape a wonderful temperament. 

Why early training is really important

The first few months are a key time for learning. Early training helps your puppy:

• Learn what’s okay and what’s not (like chewing the sofa!)

• Feel confident when facing new situations and people

• Avoid the behaviour problems that can crop up down the line

Short, fun, consistent sessions are absolutely key. Aim for just 5 to 10 minutes, multiple times a day. Puppies love routine, gentle guidance, and positive reinforcement. Frenchie puppies, in particular, may have a tendency to be a little headstrong at times. Developing steady routines and good habits early really helps to get everyone on the same page.

Puppy milestones by age

Knowing what to expect at each stage makes training and socialisation a lot smoother.

8–12 weeks: Your Frenchie is like a sponge, soaking up the world around them. Focus on gentle socialisation, getting them comfortable with handling (especially their ears and paws for later vet visits), starting toilet training, and introducing simple cues like sit or come in short, fun sessions.

3–6 months: This is the curious, high-energy phase. Continue socialising and start adding a bit more structure, like short obedience sessions, clear guidance, and consistent routines. 

6–12 months: Welcome to the teenage stage! Your Frenchie might start testing limits, or they'll forget what they've learned. Just stay patient and reinforce good manners and positive habits. 

Crate training

A crate can become your puppy’s safe space and also help with house training. Most puppies settle into crate training within a few days, though some take a little longer.

Tips:

• Make it cosy: their favourite blanket, a toy or two to help them feel safe.

• Encourage voluntary crate use with treats and praise.

• Take advantage of your Frenchie’s love for snoozing when things are quiet.

• Never use the crate for punishment.

• Start with short periods, and gradually increase the time.

Toilet training

Toilet training a French Bulldog can take patience, as this breed often needs clear routines and positive reinforcement to learn good habits.

• Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and play.

• Stay with them to build confidence.

• Immediately praise and reward successful toilet breaks.

• Watch for those unmistakable signs, like sniffing, circling, the 'I need to go!' dance, and rush them outside.

• Clean accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner and avoid punishment.

Some Frenchie puppies will have setbacks with their toilet training later on and need the training to be refreshed. Success comes from offering timely toilet breaks, keeping a routine, and rewarding good behaviour.

Teaching basic commands

Short, positive, and consistent sessions help your puppy learn their first essential commands. Reward them immediately with praise, a cuddle, a favourite toy, or a tasty treat so they know exactly what they did right. 

Start with sit, stay, and come, keeping sessions fun and never punishing mistakes. You notice your puppy pauses to think before they get it right. That’s normal.

Sometimes your Frenchie will be too excited to pay attention or have their mind set on something else. In those moments, it’s usually best to just let them burn off all that energy, and try a short training session again a little later.

Tip: Watch treat portions! Too many can lead to weight gain or put stress on growing joints. Stick to vet-approved snacks and definitely avoid toxic foods like chocolate or grapes.

Collar and lead training

Getting your puppy used to a collar, harness, and lead is important for safe and enjoyable walks for the whole family.

Step 1: Start indoors with a lightweight collar for short periods. Make sure it fits comfortably—the general rule of thumb is two fingers between the collar and neck. Some shaking or scratching is normal. Reward calm behaviour with praise or a small treat.

Step 2: Attach a lightweight lead and let your puppy drag it around under supervision. Encourage them to follow you and reward them with treats, toys, or praise. Remember to keep sessions short.

Step 3: Teach “heel” with a tasty treat to keep your puppy by your side. Start at home with few distractions. If they pull, stop, guide them back, and reward calm, polite walking.

Frenchie puppies can struggle with recall training, especially in highly stimulating environments. Remember to get the basics down first, at home with fewer distractions, and high-value treats. Be very gradual, and always prioritise safety!

Managing nipping and biting

Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Gentle, consistent guidance helps them learn what’s okay to chew.

• Keep a toy within reach during play so you can redirect your puppy as soon as their sharp teeth catch your hand. 

• Give a calm, firm “ouch” or pause play briefly to signal that biting isn’t acceptable.

• Avoid using your hands or feet as toys to prevent giving mixed messages about what’s appropriate to bite.

• Everyone in the household should respond the same way so your puppy learns faster.

• Don’t underestimate a Frenchie’s strong jaws! Make sure toys are sturdy.

Introducing puppies to other pets and kids

Early socialisation helps puppies feel comfortable around others:

• Introduce pets slowly and always under supervision.

• Help kids learn to be gentle and to respect when your puppy wants a bit of space.

• Discourage young children from touching a Frenchie’s ears, nose or mouth; handling these areas can be quite stressful for them.

When to seek professional help

Every puppy is unique. Professional behaviourists or veterinarians can address behaviour concerns, health issues, or specific training challenges. Early guidance can save frustration and help your puppy thrive.

French Bulldog Puppy Q&A

Q: My French Bulldog puppy refuses to walk on the lead. Is this normal?
A: Yes, Frenchies can be stubborn and may “plant their feet” when unsure or uninterested. Start with short, positive sessions, use treats to encourage forward movement, and avoid pulling. A well-fitted harness is essential to protect their neck and airway.

Q: My Frenchie gets tired quickly on walks. Am I doing something wrong?
A: French Bulldogs can overheat and fatigue easily due to their flat faces. Keep walks short, avoid hot weather, offer plenty of rest breaks, and watch for signs of overheating. Training should prioritise calm, steady pacing rather than long distances.

Tips for success

• Use positive reinforcement: Praise, treats, and affection work really well.

• Keep training short and fun: Multiple 5–10 minute sessions a day are more effective than one long session.

• Don’t force training sessions when your puppy has other things in mind. This can cause stress and make learning more difficult later. Try again at a better time. 

• Socialise early: Gradually introduce your puppy to people, pets, and new environments to build their confidence.

• Sleep is important: Make sure your puppy is getting enough sleep. Tired puppies can become overstimulated and harder to train.

• Redirect unwanted behaviour: Teach calm, controlled alternatives early on to prevent habits like jumping or mouthing from becoming bigger issues.

• Professional help: If you’re struggling with something specific, a vet or behaviourist can give you personalised guidance.

Join us next month as we explore common puppy health conditions, including what to look out for and how to keep your pup happy and healthy.