How to stop a Bulldog from chasing other animals
Let me say it straight—a Bulldog chasing other animals isn’t funny, it’s dangerous. I’ve seen the outcome firsthand in rescue situations: injured animals, stressed households, and dogs rehomed because nobody addressed the issue early. So, if you’ve got a Bulldog who bolts after squirrels, cats, or other dogs, it’s time to get serious and take charge. This isn’t about being mean—it’s about being in control.
Rule #1: Supervise or Confine—No Free Passes
You can’t train what you don’t see. That Bulldog should never be unsupervised around other animals until you’ve built control.
- Use a leash even indoors if you have to.
- Baby gates, crates, and tethers are your tools.
- If you’re not watching, the dog’s not roaming.
Freedom is earned, not given. Let your Bulldog earn it.
Rule #2: Interrupt the Chase Immediately
Timing is everything. The moment your Bulldog locks eyes, stalks, or stiffens up, you act. Don’t wait for the full chase.
- Use a firm leash correction and a sharp “Leave it!”
- Redirect them to a sit or down.
- Reward calm behavior—not curiosity, not tension, calm.
Catch the fire before it sparks. You’ll save yourself a whole lot of work.
Rule #3: Drill “Leave It” and “Recall” Until They’re Automatic
These aren’t cute party tricks—they’re lifesavers.
- Practice “Leave it” with food, toys, then distractions.
- Practice recall (come when called) on a long line, daily.
- If your dog ignores you in the house, they’ll ignore you in the park—fix that first.
You’re not teaching tricks. You’re building control.
Rule #4: Don’t Just Exercise—Drain the Tank
Your Bulldog may act lazy, but don’t be fooled. Mental and physical energy builds up. When it does, that cat becomes a target.
- Walk your dog with purpose. None of that dragging and sniffing every mailbox.
- Use mental work—obedience, puzzle toys, sniff games.
- Do this every single day. Not “when I have time.” Daily.
A tired Bulldog doesn’t chase. They nap.
Rule #5: Stop Making Excuses
“He’s just playing.” “He wouldn’t hurt a fly.” “He’s never caught anything.”
Let me stop you there. That’s denial, not training.
- Even if the chase hasn’t ended in injury, it’s still stressful for the other animal.
- One mistake can end in tragedy.
- Your dog isn’t being mean—but he is being unmanaged.
Stop excusing. Start leading.
Rule #6: Respect Other Animals’ Space
Your Bulldog doesn’t have to be best friends with every cat, squirrel, or rabbit. But they do need to leave them alone.
- Keep a buffer. Don’t force interactions.
- Let your dog observe from a distance until boredom replaces obsession.
- Reinforce calm detachment, not forced friendliness.
You’re not raising a social butterfly. You’re raising a respectful citizen.
Rule #7: Get Help Before It Gets Worse
If your Bulldog’s chasing comes with growling, lunging, or obsession, bring in a qualified behaviorist or trainer. No YouTube shortcuts. No gimmicks.
You don’t wait for a fire to burn the house down. You call the fire department.
Final Word from the Vet
Bulldogs are powerful, loyal, and stubborn. That’s the combo you’re working with. So your training? It better be firm, consistent, and fair. No shouting, no hitting—just structured leadership.
You lead. You train. You follow through.
Because if you don’t stop the chasing, you’re leaving it up to chance. And that’s a risk no responsible dog owner takes.
