How to stop a French Bulldog from chasing cats
Let’s not sugarcoat it—French Bulldogs can be little steamrollers when they get fixated on something. That “something” is often a cat. Whether it’s playful or prey-driven, chasing is a behavior you must get under control early. Left unchecked, it creates stress for your cat, chaos in your home, and frustration for everyone involved—including your stubborn Frenchie.
I’ve dealt with this first-hand—at home, in the clinic, and in my sanctuary. You’ve gotta lead the situation. Not with yelling or guilt—but with structure, consistency, and boundaries. Let’s break it down.
Know the Root of the Chase
You can’t fix what you don’t understand. Chasing behavior in French Bulldogs typically falls into three buckets:
- Playful instinct: The dog thinks the cat is a moving toy.
- Prey drive: Yes, even sweet little Frenchies can have it.
- Territorial behavior: They’re guarding “their” space, food, or human.
Watch the body language. Is the tail wagging or stiff? Is it barking with excitement or growling with tension? Identify the why—that determines your next move.
Set Boundaries. And Enforce Them.
Your Frenchie doesn’t get to chase. Period. This isn’t negotiable. Make that crystal clear.
- Use a leash indoors when first introducing or correcting. Don’t give them freedom they haven’t earned.
- Crate or use baby gates to separate and control space.
- Redirect immediately—call their name firmly the second they lock eyes on the cat, then lead them away.
If they ignore you, don’t yell—block their movement. Step in between and use your body to say “Not happening.”
Teach “Leave It” Like You Mean It
“Leave it” isn’t a cute trick—it’s a life skill. Here’s how to make it stick:
- Start with a treat in your hand.
- Say “leave it” and close your hand the moment they lunge.
- When they back off—even a second—reward calmly.
- Practice this daily until “leave it” means stop what you’re doing now.
Once they get it, apply it to real life. Use the command when the cat enters the room. Reinforce with a treat only when they stay calm.
Tire Them Out Before They Even See the Cat
A bored Frenchie is a menace. You want them too tired to care about the cat.
- Walks (not sprints—remember their breathing limitations).
- Tug games or puzzle feeders.
- Obedience drills that make them think.
Work their mind and their body. It reduces chasing by burning off that pent-up energy.
Reward Calm Like It’s Gold
If your Frenchie sits quietly while the cat walks by, don’t ignore it—celebrate it. This is how you rewire their brain:
- Treats.
- Praise.
- Calm affection.
- Access to something they want (toys, a comfy bed).
They’ll start to associate “cat around = calm = good things happen.”
Don’t Let the Cat Handle It
A lot of folks say, “The cat will teach the dog who’s boss.” That’s a recipe for someone getting scratched—or worse. Your cat didn’t sign up to be the disciplinarian. You did.
So step up and supervise every interaction. No free-for-alls. No hoping they’ll “work it out.” You’re the referee here.
When to Call in Reinforcements
If your French Bulldog shows signs of serious aggression (growling, lunging, teeth bared), don’t go it alone. Get a professional trainer who knows behavior modification. And don’t wait until it escalates.
Also: get your vet involved. Sometimes underlying pain, anxiety, or frustration shows up as behavioral outbursts.
My Final Word as a Vet
Listen—Frenchies are full of charm, but they also need firm leadership. Chasing isn’t cute, and it’s not harmless. It’s a stressor for everyone—especially your cat.
Create structure. Correct early. Reward calm. And most of all—don’t ignore the signs. You’re not just protecting your cat. You’re shaping your Frenchie into the balanced companion they’re meant to be.
