Curb the Crazy: Train Your Dog to Stop Jumping Up

Does your lovable pup greet everyone with an enthusiastic leap? While adorable at first, dog jumping can quickly become an unwelcome behavior. This uncontrolled excitement can knock over small children, stain clothes, or simply feel overwhelming. Luckily, there are ways to teach your dog calmer greeting manners! This blog post will explore effective techniques to address dog jumping, while also highlighting when professional dog training can be a valuable solution.

Why Do Dogs Jump Up?

Understanding the reasons behind dog jumping is the first step towards effectively addressing it. Here are some common causes:

  • Seeking Attention: Jumping is often a learned behavior that gets rewarded with attention, even if it’s negative attention like scolding.
  • Excitement: Excited greetings can lead to jumping as a way to express joy and anticipation.
  • Dominance: In some cases, jumping can be a sign of dominance, particularly in larger breeds.

Calming Techniques to Curb Dog Jumping

Here are some techniques you can implement to discourage your dog from jumping on people:

  • Ignore the Jump: When your dog jumps, stand completely still with your arms crossed and avoid eye contact. Wait for all four paws to be on the ground before rewarding them with attention or petting.
  • Turn and Walk Away: If your dog jumps, calmly turn and walk away, depriving them of the desired interaction. Reward calm greetings with praise and petting when they approach politely.
  • The “Leave It” Command: Teach your dog the “leave it” command to redirect their attention from jumping to a desired behavior like sitting or lying down. (Obedience Training)

When to Consider Professional Dog Training

While the techniques above can be effective, some dogs might require more structured training to overcome their jumping habit. Here’s when professional dog training can be beneficial:

  • Persistent Jumping: If your dog continues to jump despite consistent application of the techniques mentioned above, a professional trainer can create a customized training plan addressing the root cause of the behavior.
  • Underlying Behavioral Issues: If the jumping is accompanied by other behavioral problems like anxiety or dominance, a professional trainer can provide specialized techniques to address them.
  • Multiple Dog Households: Managing jumping behavior can be more challenging in multi-dog households. A professional trainer can help ensure consistent training across all dogs.

Building a Strong Bond with a Well-Behaved Pup

Teaching your dog not to jump on people takes time, patience, and consistency. By implementing the calming techniques mentioned above and seeking professional dog training when needed, you can create a happy and well-behaved pup who greets everyone politely.

Remember, Dawgz & Stripes is here to help! We offer a variety of dog training services, including basic obedience training that can address jumping behavior. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help your dog become a master of polite greetings!