Advanced Obedience Training For Bulldogs

As a veterinarian with over a decade of experience—and someone who runs a sanctuary for stray dogs and cats—I’ve worked with my fair share of bulldogs. Stubborn, strong-willed, and built like tanks, these dogs have a mind of their own. But don’t let their stubborn streak fool you. Bulldogs are intelligent, eager to please (when motivated properly), and capable of mastering advanced obedience. The key? Patience, consistency, and the right approach.

If you’ve already nailed the basics—sit, stay, come—you’re ready to take your bulldog’s training to the next level. Here’s how to get it done.

1. Fine-Tuning Basic Commands

Before jumping into advanced training, make sure the fundamentals are rock solid. Your bulldog should respond to commands the first time—not after you’ve repeated yourself five times.

• Increase duration – If your dog can hold a sit for five seconds, push it to 30. Work up to a full minute.
• Add distance – Start stepping away when giving commands. Eventually, your bulldog should obey from across the room or yard.
• Strengthen recall – If “come” is optional in their mind, fix that. Use high-value rewards and train in different environments.

Once these basics are automatic, you’re ready for more.

2. Off-Leash Obedience

Bulldogs are not natural off-leash dogs. They tend to get distracted easily, and let’s be honest—once they decide they’re done listening, good luck. But with the right training, they can learn solid off-leash control.

• E-collar training (if necessary) – Used responsibly, an e-collar can reinforce recall and off-leash commands.
• Long-line training – Start with a 30-foot leash. Practice “come,” “stay,” and “heel” before transitioning to off-leash.
• Controlled environments first – Don’t go straight to a busy park. Start in a fenced yard, then move to quiet open spaces.

3. Advanced Commands and Problem-Solving

At this stage, your bulldog is ready for more complex tasks.

• Place Command – Teach them to go to a designated spot (like a bed or mat) and stay there until released.
• Heel Under Distraction – They should be able to walk at your side even when people, dogs, and loud noises are around.
• Leave It (No Matter What) – A bulldog that respects “leave it” will drop food, toys, or anything else you don’t want them touching.

4. Behavioral Polishing

Bulldogs are naturally headstrong, and if you don’t keep them in check, they’ll push boundaries. Advanced obedience training also means refining their behavior.

• Door Manners – No charging out the door. Make them sit and wait for your cue.
• No Jumping on Guests – Teach them to sit when people enter instead of bulldozing them.
• Impulse Control – Teach them to wait before eating, getting in the car, or playing with a toy.

5. Mental and Physical Challenges

Bulldogs might not be marathon runners, but they still need stimulation. Keep their minds and bodies engaged with advanced training activities.

• Agility for bulldogs – Low-impact obstacle courses can challenge them without overexerting their joints.
• Scent Work – Bulldogs have strong noses. Hide treats and teach them to search.
• Trick Training – Bulldogs can learn complex tricks like rolling over, playing dead, or even skateboarding (yes, some of them love it).

Final Thoughts

Bulldogs will test you. They’ll pretend they didn’t hear you. They’ll decide mid-command that they’d rather nap. But don’t mistake stubbornness for lack of intelligence. They’re fully capable of advanced obedience—you just have to outsmart them.

Be patient. Be firm. Be consistent. Keep training fun, and always end on a positive note. Stick with it, and you’ll have a bulldog that listens the first time, every time. No arguments, no attitude—just solid obedience.