Most dogs are social creatures by nature, and they tend to jump on new people they encounter. They perceive this behavior as a way to greet a potential new friend, bringing them to the same eye level as the individual.

Jumping can grab attention and bring them closer to receiving pets. While this might seem like a harmless gesture, it can escalate into scratches or even knocking people down as dogs grow older and stronger.

Preventive Measures for Dogs Jumping on People

During puppyhood, it is crucial to discourage jumping. Inform those around you not to engage with the puppy until all four paws are on the ground. Refrain from yelling "no" or using physical deterrents, as these actions may inadvertently encourage jumping behavior.

Utilize a verbal cue like "off" to redirect your dog's behavior. Positive reinforcement through praise or treats is effective in reinforcing desired behavior. For older dogs, training may take longer but using the same techniques can yield positive results over time. The ultimate goal is to encourage dogs to keep all four paws on the ground when interacting with people.

Teaching your dog to sit on command is essential in managing their excitement levels. Provide praise and treats as a reward for sitting instead of jumping. Over time, condition your dog to sit when approaching someone instead of jumping. Instruct your family and friends to prompt your dog to sit upon entering your home.

When dealing with jumping behavior, ignoring the dog often proves to be the most effective approach. However, some dogs may require redirection to a sit command. If the dog persists, calmly remove them from the situation to lower their energy levels.

Training Techniques to Avoid

It is important to refrain from rewarding a dog after the desired behavior has ceased. Offer praise or treats immediately when the dog follows the command. Also, avoid permitting loud or chaotic entrances to prevent triggering excitable behavior in your dog.

Negative forms of punishment, such as physical corrections or harsh treatment, should never be employed during training. Opt for positive reinforcement techniques to establish positive behavioral patterns.

While home training is possible, seeking professional assistance can aid in refining your dog's behavior. Consider enrolling your dog in training classes or consulting a certified trainer for personalized obedience training.

Super simple way to stop a dog from jumping.

Beckman's Dog Training