Bed vs. Crate
(Your Puppy's First Night Home)
Bringing your Frenchie home is a big moment for both of you. There is no single right answer — but there is a right answer for you & your puppy.
Understanding Frenchie Attachment
French Bulldogs are bred for companionship. Closeness is not a bad habit — it is literally in their DNA. A 2024 study published in the Animals journal found that tight bonds between French Bulldogs and their owners enhance their social cognition, likely through the same oxytocin pathways that bond human children to caregivers. If your puppy is crying, whining, or begging to be near you, that is communication worth listening to.
Co-Sleeping
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Many Frenchies do best sleeping near or with a companion, especially in the early weeks.
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Be prepared to cuddle your puppy and possibly, bring them into bed with you.
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Keep at least a couple waterproof pet blankets on hand — one to protect surfaces from accidents, one as a backup.
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We are not advocates of the "cry it out" method. We believe it is traumatic and unnecessary.
Crate Training
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Some puppies are more independent and settle happily in a crate — honor that.
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We pre-expose our puppies to crates & play pens before they leave us, so they feel safe and familiar.
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Crate size: fits one or two Frenchies comfortably, with soft padding inside.
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Avoid using the crate as punishment. It should always feel like a safe haven.
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Treats are your friend while crate training! Reward generously when your puppy gets it right.
Set up for Success...
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Two or more waterproof pet blankets to protect your bed.
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A properly sized crate with soft bedding, treats on hand.
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Puppy playpen for safe daytime containment.
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Fresh water should be available at all times.
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Keep expectations low and patience high — they are adjusting to an entirely new world. They will get there, it may take some time.
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We believe it is possible to enjoy the best of both worlds: Co-sleeping and crate training are not mutually exclusive. There's no reason you can't enjoy both with your dog.
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Your needs and boundaries are also important, so please use your best discernment when balancing this with your puppy's demands.
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→ See Amara's Favorite Things for our recommended crates, playpens, and waterproof blankets.