How to stop a Bulldog puppy from pulling on the leash
Alright, let’s talk straight. You’ve got a Bulldog puppy, and you’re out there trying to enjoy a walk. Instead, it looks like your arm’s in a tug-of-war with a snorting, stubby tank. I’ve seen it more times than I can count. Cute at first—but give it six months, and you’ll be getting dragged down the block. Let’s put a stop to that. Today.
Why Is Your Bulldog Puppy Pulling?
Understanding what’s going on in their wrinkly little head helps you correct it effectively.
- Excitement. They see, they smell, they move. Bulldogs are curious, even lazy ones.
- Lack of training. If you haven’t taught leash manners, they’re making it up as they go.
- Reinforcement. Every time they pull and you follow, they learn it works.
This isn’t about dominance. It’s about structure. And you’re the one who needs to build it.
Start Training Indoors, Not on the Sidewalk
Don’t expect miracles in the middle of a busy street. You’ve gotta teach the basics in a quiet, distraction-free place—like your living room.
- Put the leash on inside. Let them wear it and get used to the weight.
- Walk in circles. Practice following, stopping, and turning with treats in your hand.
- Reward when the leash is loose. The second they walk without tension, give praise or a treat.
Build good habits before hitting the pavement.
Use the Right Equipment
I’m not saying go overboard, but you need the right tools if you want results.
- Harness over a collar. Bulldogs have thick necks and delicate airways. Go for a no-pull harness that clips in front.
- Leash control. Use a 4-6 foot leash. No retractables. You need to feel the dog, not fish for them.
You don’t need gadgets. You need leverage, patience, and control.
Teach the “Stop and Stand Still” Rule
Here’s what you do the second that puppy pulls—stop. Dead stop. No yelling. No tug-of-war. Just freeze.
- The moment they stop pulling and look back, mark the behavior—say “Yes” or “Good.”
- Reward if they return to you.
- Start walking again.
- Repeat every time they pull.
You’re showing them that pulling gets them nowhere. But walking nicely keeps the journey going.
Be Consistent Like It’s a Religion
If you let your Bulldog pull sometimes but correct them other times, they’ll never figure it out.
- Walks are not for exercise at first—they’re for training.
- Keep sessions short but consistent. Every day. Twice a day if you can.
- Everyone in the house needs to follow the same method. No exceptions.
Mixed signals confuse the dog. Clear rules train the dog.
Engage Their Brain, Not Just Their Body
Bulldogs get stubborn when they’re bored. You need to keep their mind working.
- Change direction often. Make them pay attention to you.
- Use treats to reward eye contact and calm walking.
- Toss in a sit or stay command mid-walk. Make it a game they want to win.
A Bulldog that’s thinking isn’t pulling.
Don’t Let the Puppy Set the Pace
This walk belongs to you. You choose where, when, and how fast. Not the dog.
- If they surge ahead, stop.
- If they try to turn toward something, redirect.
- If they yank—correct with calm, not anger.
Control the route, and you control the behavior. Simple as that.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your puppy’s turning into a 40-pound plow machine and nothing seems to work, it’s okay to get backup.
- Look for a trainer who uses positive reinforcement and has experience with stubborn breeds.
- Stay involved—don’t outsource your authority.
- Training is teamwork. You’re the leader; the trainer is the coach.
Don’t wait until it’s a full-blown problem. Catch it early and fix it right.
Final Word From the Vet
I’ve raised Bulldogs in my sanctuary and rehabbed ones that came in completely untrained. They’re funny, lovable, and yes—stubborn as bricks. But they’re not beyond learning.
Stop treating walks like free time and start treating them like lessons. Be calm. Be stern. Be steady. That leash is a lifeline—it should lead back to trust, respect, and control.
