How to Train Your French Bulldog to Love the Crate
How to Train Your French Bulldog to Love the Crate
At Champs French Bulldogs, we teach calm, happy crate habits so the crate feels like a cozy den—never a punishment. When you keep it positive and consistent, your Frenchie will trot in on their own and settle beautifully.
Why Crate Training Works?
A good crate gives your Frenchie a safe, quiet place to relax. It also supports potty training, makes travel easier, and helps puppies learn to self-soothe.
- Calmer naps & faster settling
- Easier potty training (den instinct)
- Safer car rides & vet visits
Our Step-by-Step Method
1) Make it inviting
Toss 1–2 treats into the back of the crate. Say your dog’s name warmly as they investigate. Door stays open.
2) Treat toss + name + praise
Toss their favorite treat into the crate, call their name, and when they step in, say “Good boy!” / “Good girl!” in a calm, happy voice.
3) Close, praise, open, reward outside
Gently close the door for a moment while praising. Then open it and reward again outside the crate. This teaches calm entries and exits.
4) Short, fun reps
Do 5–10 quick repetitions (60–90 seconds). End while it’s still fun. Use your entry command each time (“Go in your crate”).
Pro tips
- Put rewards at the back so they go all the way in.
- Keep your voice soft and your movements smooth.
Build Solid Habits (time, door, distance)
- Time inside (door open): Feed 2–3 treats for staying calmly, then release.
- Door practice: Close 1–2 seconds → treat through bars → open → release. Slowly increase time.
- Distance: Ask from one step away, then two, then across the room. If they hesitate, step closer and help once.
Bed Manners & Gentle Correction
We want the crate calm and comfy. If your Frenchie bites, digs, or wrestles with the bed:
Say a neutral “Hey!” or “leave it”, then redirect with a treat on the floor outside.
Invite back in calmly and reward quiet behavior.
Persistent bed play? Try a flat mat for a bit and offer a safe chew during supervised crate time.
Potty Training & the Den Instinct
Because dogs see a crate as a den, most avoid soiling it—great for potty training.
Right size matters: Too big invites accidents.
Schedule: Take them outside after naps, meals, and play.
Calm returns: Keep the crate a place to rest, not to wrestle.
(This topic also lives inside our Frenchie Academy basics—where we guide families on crate + potty timing.)
Safety & Comfort
Provide appropriate potty breaks and a safe chew.
Keep the crate in a low-distraction area at first.
If you’re unsure about timing for your dog, check with your vet or trainer.
Work with Champs
We raise AKC-registered, champion bloodline French Bulldogs with a focus on better temperaments and better health. Want guidance, or looking for French Bulldog puppies in Florida?
Join our Waiting List: $500 USD deposit secures your spot.
Questions? Contact Champs French Bulldogs—we’re here to help.
