Remember that movie, Sherlock Holmes? Remember the adorable bulldog named Gladstone that was always around? Well, as lovable as Gladstone was, he was not essentially the quickest to learn tricks or be trained. This is the case with our real-life bulldogs too. Although exuding a great sense of individualism and determination, Bulldogs are usually hard to train. But hey, before you let the disheartened sigh escape your lips, remember, a rough diamond is a diamond nonetheless.
Bulldogs are popular for their distinct look which includes a wrinkled face and a stout built, lending an air of staunch resolution. On the inside, these adorable balls of energy are quite the opposite. They are gentle, friendly, and downright lazy. Hence, what makes the training hard?
The reason why bulldogs are considered hard to train is not that they aren’t smart – they are! The trouble lies in their independent nature and yes, their stubbornness. These traits can make training a tough nut to crack, especially if you are new to it. On the other hand, Bulldogs are awfully food-motivated, which can help accelerate the training process if utilized smartly.
So, before we come to the conclusion that bulldogs are not easy to train, let’s look into some key factors to understand what it entails and why! This will help us find some productive solutions for training your bulldog effectively.
Firstly, while starting to train your bulldog, it helps if you set the right expectations. Bulldogs are not among the easiest breeds to train but if you have patience and consistency, then it is not impossible either. Bulldogs are known to be a little stubborn, which means that the training might take a little longer than it would with a more cooperative breed. However, don’t let this deter you. With appropriate training techniques, you can get them to obey, albeit at their own pace.
In the context of learning new commands, bulldogs rank at an average level. According to Stanley Coren, a renowned professor of canine psychology, bulldogs take around 40 repetitions to learn a new command. While this statistic might look daunting, it is far from impossible. Armed with the right rewards and techniques, bulldogs can be trained to obey commands effectively and consistently.
Training a bulldog also presents a series of health considerations. Bulldogs are brachycephalic dogs, which means they have a shorter snout compared to other breeds. This can lead to respiratory issues, making them susceptible to overheating and exhaustion. Hence, it is essential to plan training sessions accordingly, keeping them short and sweet. Also, choosing the right training activities that would cause lesser strain keeps your bulldog healthy and compliant. Bearing this in mind could make training easier and keep your bulldog active and engaged.
Solving the stubbornness puzzle could well be your bet to successful training. While bulldogs can be obstinate, they are also food-driven. Their love for treats is something we can tap into to get them to comply. Choose healthy and tasty rewards to motivate them.
Additionally, exercise plays an essential part in training a bulldog as it helps to burn off their extra energy. Bulldogs need regular exercise to maintain their health but refrain from too much physical activity as it might affect their breathing. Since bulldogs are more prone to obesity, keeping a close watch on their diet during rewards-based training is necessary for their overall health.
Yes, bulldog training is not a cakewalk. It’s no surprise then, that they are a challenge for the new dog owners. But hey, as the saying goes, the more you sweat in training, the less you bleed in battle. The bond that you form during the training process can make it a rewarding experience. The training process can be a great way to establish communication and understand your pet better.
So, if you’re planning to bring home a bulldog puppy or are struggling to train your old friend, it will be worthwhile to remember that dealing with a bulldog involves an element of ‘give and take’. On the days when the stubbornness surfaces, do not engage in a power struggle. Instead, harness the unwavering determination in your bulldog to pivot the training process in the right direction.
Moreover, remember, just like us humans, every dog is unique and responds differently to training. So while one bulldog might take lesser time to learn, another might take quite a bit longer. Hence, be patient and persistent with your training techniques.
In conclusion, while Bulldogs may not be ‘easy’ to train per se, with the right attitude and approach, they certainly ‘can’ be trained. After all, training a dog is not just about teaching commands but also about understanding and adapting to the individual’s needs. Stay patient, be consistent, and remember – every effort you put in is a step closer to building a profound and enduring bond with your beloved bulldog. And at the end of the day, isn’t that what owning a pet is all about?
So, even though bulldogs might get distracted easily, don’t give up. With love, patience, and the right training techniques, you can pave your path towards having a well-behaved and obedient friend residing in that adorable and courageous bulldog body. Who knows? You might just end up with your own well-trained version of Gladstone. And oh, an extra treat or belly rub will ensure you have not only a trained bulldog but a happy one too!
