Jumping can be a common behavioral challenge for many dog owners. Whether it's a joyful greeting or an attempt to seek attention, it's a behavior that often needs curbing. Here are five practical tips to help you address jumping behavior and ensure your dog greets people politely, while weaving in essential dog training insights.

Tip 1: Manage the Environment

One of the most effective strategies in curbing jumping behavior is to manage your dog's environment. Preventing your dog from practicing jumping is the key. Use tools like leashes, baby gates, or even a kennel to control their access to people. By being proactive and blocking access until your dog is calm, you set them up for success.

Tip 2: Be the Most Interesting Person

Dogs often jump to seek attention. Flip the script by asking people to ignore your dog when they enter. Instead, focus on training and reward your dog for moving away from the guests. Your dog will become more interested in gathering information through sniffing and returning to you.

Tip 3: Teach a Calm Greeting

Choose a specific behavior you want your dog to perform when greeting people, such as sitting, standing, or lying down. Mark or click the moment your dog exhibits this behavior and provide them with calm attention for a few seconds. This reinforces polite greetings and reduces jumping.

Tip 4: Ignore the Undesirable, Reward the Preferred

Refrain from engaging with your dog when they jump. Avoid saying "off" or pushing them down, as these actions still provide social interaction. Instead, completely ignore the jumping behavior. Praise and offer attention only when your dog stands with all four paws on the ground. Wait for them to demonstrate the desired greeting behavior, mark or click, and then reward with attention.

Tip 5: Stay Calm & Be Consistent

Training your dog not to jump requires consistency. Ensure that everyone interacting with your dog follows the same reward principles. This consistency helps your dog understand that calm behavior leads to attention, while jumping results in attention withdrawal. Maintain a calm demeanor when ignoring or greeting your dog, as they tend to mirror your energy level.

By implementing these tips and maintaining a consistent approach, you can address jumping behavior effectively.

Pat's Pack's Dog Training located in sunny San Diego is always here to help if you have any questions concerning this or other training needs!

Happy Dog Training!