How to keep a French Bulldog puppy entertained indoors
Listen up—French Bulldog puppies are a handful. Sure, they’re small and have that adorable wrinkly face, but don’t let that fool you. They’ve got energy, curiosity, and a stubborn streak that’ll test your patience if you don’t keep them busy. If you think a little couch cuddling is enough, you’re setting yourself up for chewing, barking, and behavior headaches.
I’ve seen plenty of Frenchie puppies come through my sanctuary and clinic. The ones who thrive indoors are the ones whose owners take the job seriously—mental stimulation, physical activity, and clear boundaries. Here’s how you keep your French Bulldog puppy entertained indoors without losing your mind.
1. Short and Sweet Play Sessions Are Your Best Friend
French Bulldog puppies have bursts of energy—they’re not marathon runners. Expect several short play sessions a day, 10 to 15 minutes tops.
- Play gentle tug-of-war with soft ropes (teach “drop it” early)
- Toss soft toys in a hallway for a quick fetch
- Use flirt poles for short chase sessions (watch their breathing!)
- Play hide-and-seek with treats or toys around the room
Remember: keep it low-impact to avoid overexertion and overheating.
2. Use Food Puzzles to Work That Brain
These puppies love food, so use it to your advantage. Don’t just dump kibble in a bowl. Make them work for it.
- Start with simple puzzle feeders and increase difficulty gradually
- Freeze stuffed Kongs with puppy-safe goodies
- Hide treats under towels or in snuffle mats for scent games
- Use muffin tins and tennis balls to challenge their nose and mind
Mental work tires a puppy out faster than running around the house.
3. Train Consistently—It’s Not Optional
Frenchie puppies test limits every chance they get. Consistent training sessions build focus and prevent bad habits.
- Keep training sessions short, 5 to 7 minutes, 2–3 times a day
- Teach basics: sit, down, stay, come, and leave it
- Use high-value treats and stay calm but firm
- End sessions on a positive note to keep puppy motivated
You want them thinking “I want to listen because it pays off,” not “I’ll ignore because it’s easier.”
4. Rotate Toys to Keep Things Interesting
French Bulldog puppies get bored fast. Don’t expect one toy to keep their attention all day.
- Keep 2–3 toys out at a time and swap weekly
- Mix up textures: rubber, plush (if puppy-safe), and rope
- Include interactive toys like treat dispensers or snuffle balls
- Avoid toys that can be destroyed quickly—Frenchies have strong jaws
A rotating stash keeps your puppy curious and entertained.
5. Chewing Is a Must—Give Them the Right Stuff
Teething is rough. If you don’t provide safe chew options, your furniture and hands are on the menu.
- Offer durable rubber chew toys designed for puppies
- Use frozen wet cloths or puppy-safe teething chews
- Avoid rawhide or anything that can splinter or choke your puppy
- Always supervise chew time to prevent accidents
Chewing relieves pain and keeps destructive behavior at bay.
6. Create a Daily Routine for Stability
French Bulldog puppies thrive when they know what’s coming next. Random days lead to random behaviors.
- Morning potty break, followed by breakfast with a puzzle feeder
- Mid-morning play and short training session
- Quiet chew or crate time early afternoon
- Afternoon nose work or treat hunt
- Dinner from a slow feeder
- Evening wind-down with calm play and cuddle time
Stick to the routine—it builds security and reduces anxiety-driven mischief.
7. Teach Calmness and Reward It
French Bulldogs love attention, but you don’t want to reward jumping, barking, or whining.
- Teach a “place” command where your puppy learns to settle
- Reward quiet moments with treats and praise
- Ignore attention-seeking behaviors to avoid reinforcing them
- Use calm, consistent tone—no yelling or harshness
Calm puppies grow into calm adults. You’ve got to show them the way.
Final Word: Be the Leader Your Frenchie Puppy Needs
French Bulldog puppies are smart, stubborn, and adorable—exactly why you can’t slack on their indoor entertainment and training. If you don’t fill their days with purposeful activity and structure, they’ll fill it themselves—with chaos.
Show up every day with patience, a plan, and the confidence to lead. Your French Bulldog puppy will reward you with a well-behaved, happy companion who loves being indoors with you—not driving you crazy.
