Dogs have a habit of jumping on people; it’s their way of either greeting or seeking attention. But it seems cute only when they are puppies, not when they grow bigger and stronger. This can create a problem for both the dog and the owner. Sudden jumping can lead to accidental injuries, knockdowns, or discomfort for guests. Fortunately, with proper dog training, you can teach your pet to greet people politely without jumping on them. Let us understand the effective strategies that will train your dog to jump on people.
Ways to train a dog to stop jumping on people:
Understand the reason for jumping
Dogs often jump out of excitement or seek attention. Dogs instinctively jump to reach the person’s face as a form of greeting. Some dogs just jump over the excitement of seeing people. Knowing the reason behind their jump is the first thing to correct them.
Ignore the jumping behavior
One of the most effective ways to stop jumping is to ignore it. When your dog jumps on you or someone else, try turning away and avoiding eye contact. Cross your arms and remain still until your dog calms down. Only give them attention when they are standing or sitting on the ground. This will make them understand gradually that jumping doesn’t help. If jumping gets no longer attention, it will stop over time.
Teaching an alternative behavior
Instead of punishing them for jumping, it is always a better way to teach an alternative behavior and an appropriate way to greet people. Ask your dog to sit before they get attention or petting. Give treats and praise when they remain calm. Have others approach your dog and reinforce sitting instead of jumping. Controlling their excitement into positive action, your dog will learn to greet people in a mannered way.
Teach with the help of a leash for better control
Using leash will be very helpful while teaching them to control themselves from jumping on people. Keep your dog on leash when there are visitors or guests at home. Control through leash to prevent jumping on people. Keep rewarding them with words or treats for remaining calm. Leash is a better option when you have just started with the dog training. As you start observing changes in your dog’s behavior, you can gradually off-leash your dog.
Practice and consistency
Training only works when all the members in the house are following the same rules. All the family members and visitors have to ignore the jumping behavior commanding them to “sit before giving attention. Dogs will learn quickly and best when practiced regularly.
Stopping your dog from jumping on people requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Teaching an alternative behavior to greet works best when followed consistently. Teaching your dog to stop jumping will protect your dog and the people around; therefore, it is the owner’s responsibility to focus on this behavior and take all necessary measures to correct it.