Top 10 Tricks to Teach Your Frenchie That Will Make Training a Breeze

Welcome to the world of French Bulldog ownership! These charming and affectionate dogs can be quite the characters, and teaching them tricks is a fantastic way to bond with your furry friend while keeping their minds sharp. In this guide, we’ll explore ten top tricks that will make your training sessions fun, rewarding, and stress-free. Each section will provide step-by-step instructions, tips on positive reinforcement, and insights into the challenges you might face along the way. Let’s dive in!

1. Sit: The Foundation of All Commands

The ‘sit’ command is the cornerstone of basic obedience training. It’s simple, yet essential for your Frenchie to learn.

Step 1: Get Ready
Start by gathering some small treats your Frenchie loves. Position yourself at eye level with your dog, holding the treat close to their nose.
Step 2: Show the Command
Hold the treat above their head, guiding it slightly backward. As your Frenchie follows the treat with their eyes and head, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground.
Step 3: Reinforce the Behavior
As soon as they sit, say “Sit” clearly and give them the treat immediately. Praise them enthusiastically.
Step 4: Practice Makes Perfect
Repeat this process several times a day. Gradually reduce the number of treats given as your Frenchie gets better at sitting on command.

Tips: Use a consistent word or hand signal for the ‘sit’ command. Always end each session on a positive note.

Common Challenges: Some Frenchies may jump up instead of sitting. If this happens, gently push them back into a sitting position and try again.

2. Shake Hands: A Fun and Interactive Trick

This trick is not only entertaining but also great for strengthening the bond between you and your Frenchie.

Step 1: Start with the Sit Command
Ensure your Frenchie is sitting calmly next to you.
Step 2: Introduce the Handshake
Hold a treat in one hand, and place it near their paw. Gently lift their paw towards you as you say “Shake.”
Step 3: Reward and Repeat
Praise and give the treat once they’ve lifted their paw. Repeat this process until they understand the connection between lifting their paw and receiving a reward.
Step 4: Fade Out the Treats
Gradually phase out the treats by offering verbal praise or a pat instead.

Tips: Keep the sessions short and fun to maintain your Frenchie’s interest.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may be hesitant to let go of their paws. Patience is key here; keep practicing and they’ll eventually get comfortable.

3. Roll Over: A Clever Trick for Mental Stimulation

Teaching your Frenchie to roll over is a great way to challenge their problem-solving skills.

Step 1: Begin with the ‘Down’ Command
First, ensure your Frenchie knows how to lie down on command. If not, practice this before moving on.
Step 2: Guide the Movement
Once they’re lying down, hold a treat in front of their nose and slowly move it toward their shoulder. As they follow the treat, they’ll likely roll onto their side.
Step 3: Complete the Roll
Continue moving the treat around their body, guiding them into a full roll. Once they’re completely rolled over, give them the treat and lots of praise.
Step 4: Practice Regularly
Consistency is crucial. Practice daily until they can roll over without needing the treat as a guide.

Tips: Be patient and encouraging. Some Frenchies may need more time to get comfortable with this trick.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may resist rolling over. Encourage them gently, and don’t force the movement.

4. Play Dead: A Classic Trick for Laughs and Bonding

This trick is perfect for impressing friends and family, and it’s a great way to play with your Frenchie.

Step 1: Start with the ‘Down’ Command
Begin with your Frenchie in a lying-down position.
Step 2: Add the ‘Play Dead’ Gesture
Use a hand signal, like pointing at the floor, and say “Play dead.” Gently press their shoulder to encourage them to stretch out further.
Step 3: Reinforce the Behavior
Give them a treat and praise when they’ve stretched out fully.
Step 4: Fade Out the Physical Guidance
Gradually stop pressing their shoulder and rely solely on the command and gesture.

Tips: Keep the tone light and playful throughout the training session.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may be reluctant to stay still. Use treats and gentle encouragement to help them relax.

5. High Five: A Crowd-Pleasing Trick

This trick is sure to draw attention and is a fun way to engage your Frenchie.

Step 1: Begin with the ‘Shake Hands’ Command
Ensure your Frenchie is already familiar with the ‘shake hands’ trick.
Step 2: Change the Gesture
Instead of shaking hands, guide their paw upwards towards your face. Say “High five” as they raise their paw.
Step 3: Reinforce the New Behavior
Give them a treat and praise each time they successfully give you a high five.
Step 4: Practice Until Consistent
Keep practicing until they reliably perform the high five on command.

Tips: Use a clear and enthusiastic voice to reinforce the new command.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may be confused by the change in gesture. Take it slow and be patient.

6. Fetch: A Classic Game for Exercise and Bonding

Fetching is a wonderful game that provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation for your Frenchie.

Step 1: Choose the Right Toy
Select a toy that is easy for your Frenchie to carry and throw. Toys that float or have a squeaker can be particularly appealing.
Step 2: Teach the ‘Drop’ Command
Before teaching fetch, teach your Frenchie to drop the toy. This ensures they’ll bring it back to you.
Step 3: Initiate the Game
Throw the toy a short distance and call your Frenchie’s name. When they retrieve the toy, give them praise and a treat.
Step 4: Encourage Bringing Back
Gradually increase the distance you throw the toy, always rewarding them when they bring it back.

Tips: Keep the game short and exciting to prevent your Frenchie from becoming overwhelmed.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may not want to give up the toy. Practice the ‘drop’ command consistently to address this.

7. Spin: A Simple Trick for Fun and Agility

This trick is a great way to show off your Frenchie’s agility and coordination.

Step 1: Start with a Treat
Hold a treat near your Frenchie’s nose and move it in a circle, guiding them to follow it.
Step 2: Say the Command
As they complete the circle, say “Spin” and give them the treat.
Step 3: Repeat and Refine
Practice this several times a day, gradually reducing the number of treats given.
Step 4: Fade Out the Treats
Once they’ve mastered the spin, start using just the command and hand signal.

Tips: Keep the circle small at first to avoid confusing your Frenchie.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may not follow the treat easily. Try different treats or move slower to help them understand.

8. Come: A Crucial Command for Safety

The ‘come’ command is vital for ensuring your Frenchie’s safety in various situations.

Step 1: Create Positive Associations
Start by calling your Frenchie to you in a calm, happy environment. Reward them with treats and praise each time they come to you.
Step 2: Practice in Different Settings
Gradually practice the ‘come’ command in different locations and environments, always rewarding them for obeying.
Step 3: Address Distractions
If your Frenchie is distracted, gently guide them back to you and reward them for coming when called.
Step 4: Maintain Consistency
Consistently use the same command and reward system to reinforce the behavior.

Tips: Never call your Frenchie to you if you’re about to scold them. This could cause them to associate ‘come’ with negative experiences.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may ignore the command due to distractions. Practice in various settings and be patient.

9. Speak: A Silly Trick for Entertainment

Teaching your Frenchie to speak can be a fun way to entertain guests and showcase their personality.

Step 1: Wait for a Natural Bark
Wait for your Frenchie to bark naturally, then immediately say “Speak” and give them a treat.
Step 2: Encourage Speaking
When they bark, say “Speak” and give them a treat. Repeat this process several times a day.
Step 3: Reinforce the Command
Gradually start saying “Speak” before they bark, rewarding them when they comply.
Step 4: Practice Regularly
Continue practicing until they reliably bark on command.

Tips: Use a cheerful and excited tone when giving the ‘speak’ command.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may not bark naturally. You can encourage them by making noise or clapping your hands.

10. Leave It: A Vital Command for Safety and Manners

The ‘leave it’ command is crucial for preventing your Frenchie from eating dangerous objects or inappropriate food.

Step 1: Place an Unappealing Item
Place an item your Frenchie doesn’t usually eat, like a toy or a book, on the floor.
Step 2: Give the Command
Say “Leave it” as your Frenchie approaches the item. If they try to touch it, gently block their paw and repeat the command.
Step 3: Reward Compliance
Once they leave the item alone, give them a treat and praise.
Step 4: Practice with Different Items
Practice this with various items, gradually increasing the difficulty by using more tempting objects.

Tips: Always reward your Frenchie for leaving the item alone, even if they initially tried to touch it.

Common Challenges: Some dogs may struggle to resist temptation. Be patient and consistent with your training.

Conclusion: Patience and Consistency Are Key

Training your Frenchie can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Each trick offers unique benefits, from enhancing your bond to providing mental stimulation. Remember, every dog learns at their own pace, so celebrate small victories and enjoy the journey with your beloved companion.