Teaching a bulldog to relieve themselves in the correct place is one of the first and most important lessons in their life. Although this breed is intelligent, it’s also known for being a bit stubborn, which can make the process require patience, consistency, and a smart approach.
In this article, you’ll learn step by step how to train your bulldog — whether a puppy or an adult — to do their business where they should, without stress and with long-lasting results.
Start as Early as Possible
The sooner you begin, the better. If you adopted a puppy, the ideal time to start or reinforce training is around 8 weeks of age, when they begin to better control their bladder. In the case of adult bulldogs that haven’t been trained, it’s still possible to correct the behavior, though it may take more time and firmness.
Establish a Single Spot for Their Business
The first step is to define a specific place where you want your bulldog to go. It can be a pee pad, newspaper, synthetic grass, litter tray, or the backyard. The key is that they always associate that place with the time to pee or poop.
Avoid constantly changing the location. Frequent changes confuse the dog and slow the learning process.
Set a Clear Routine
Dogs learn best when they have a predictable routine. This applies to feeding, walks, and of course, potty time.
You should take your bulldog to the correct spot:
Right after waking up
After every meal
After playtime or running
Before bedtime
Every 2–3 hours if it’s a puppy
Over time, they will understand that these are the expected times to relieve themselves.
Immediate Reward: Essential in Training
The reward must come immediately after they go in the correct spot. If you wait too long to give praise or a treat, they won’t associate the reward with the correct behavior.
Use verbal praise in a cheerful tone (“good job!”, “good boy!”), gentle petting, and dog-friendly treats. Repeat this every time they get it right until the behavior is fully ingrained.
Don’t Scold Them for Mistakes
Punishing or yelling at your bulldog when they go in the wrong place is ineffective and harmful. It can make them fearful or cause them to hide when they need to go.
Instead:
Completely ignore the mistake.
Clean up without drawing attention, using an enzymatic cleaner (to eliminate the scent and prevent repeat accidents).
Reinforce good behavior positively every time.
Supervise Closely (Especially at First)
In the first days or weeks, it’s essential that you watch your bulldog closely. If they start sniffing the floor, circling, or acting restless, it’s a sign they need to go.
At that moment, quickly guide them to the correct spot and wait until they go. The more often you catch them in time and redirect, the faster they’ll learn.
Use a Keyword During the Act
To help your bulldog associate the act of relieving themselves with a specific action, use a short keyword like “go potty” or “bathroom” each time they are doing their business.
Over time, they’ll understand the command and may even go on cue, which is especially helpful during walks or travel.
Proper Cleaning Makes All the Difference
When cleaning up accidents, avoid using ammonia-based products (like bleach), as the scent is similar to urine and may attract your dog back to the same spot.
Use enzymatic cleaners, sold in pet stores, which completely remove the odors and break down urine molecules. This is crucial to prevent repeat mistakes.
Adaptation for Apartment Living
If you live in an apartment, the ideal is to train your bulldog to use pee pads indoors, preferably in a well-ventilated area. Another good option is a tray with synthetic grass, which helps your dog associate the smell of grass with going potty.
If you have access to the street or backyard, keep walk times consistent, always at the same times each day, to build the habit.
Adult Bulldog: Can They Be Trained?
Yes! Although more challenging, adult dogs can learn where to go. The basics are the same: routine, positive reinforcement, patience, and supervision.
At first, it may help to limit access to certain parts of the house using gates or pens to prevent accidents. As they get it right more often, you can gradually give them more freedom.
Common Mistakes That Hinder Progress
Avoid:
Changing the potty area every week
Getting angry or using physical punishment
Waiting too long to take them to the right spot
Rewarding them too late
Using the wrong cleaning products
These mistakes increase confusion and make the process take longer.
Be Patient: Every Bulldog Learns at Their Own Pace
Some bulldogs learn in a few days, others take weeks. It depends on age, past experience, environment, and how consistent you are.
Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. They’re part of the process. The important thing is to maintain the routine and positive reinforcement without losing your temper.
Conclusion: Loving Discipline Is the Key
Teaching a bulldog to go potty in the right place isn’t difficult, but it does require dedication. With consistency, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcement, you’ll have a companion who knows exactly where to relieve themselves — without stress or mess.
Beyond making your life easier, this training improves your bond, strengthens your relationship, and creates a clean, harmonious environment for the whole family.