New Years Resolutions Can Be for Dogs Too

Three Methods for Stopping Your Dog From Jumping Up on People

Everyone can stand for some improvement, so why not start the New Year off with some resolutions for you and your dog? 

A dog that jumps up on people can be both annoying and embarrassing. The good news is that this behavior can quickly turn around. If you start now, you might see results in a week or two.

Why Dogs Jump Up 

First of all, it helps to understand why your dog is jumping up at you and/or your guests. As with most behaviors, jumping is a learned behavior. It may have started when your dog was a puppy, when the behavior was inadvertently reinforced until it became a bad, maybe annoying and—with the wrong person—even dangerous habit.

Puppy owners mistakenly reinforce the behavior by giving the jumping dog attention. But for most dogs, attention is exactly what they are looking for, so any sort of attention only encourages the behavior.

The number one reason dogs jump up is because they excited to see their owner and/or the guest. Your dog is looking for attention.On rare occasions, some dogs may jump up to assert their dominance over you or your guest.

Tips for Turning the Behavior Around

Method One – Ignore

Turn away from the dog as soon as you see the jumping start.Do not have eye contact with the dog or talk to the dog. Completely ignore her.Once the dog has calmed down, bend down, look at her and give praise.

Method Two – Redirect

Redirect your dog by giving her something else to do. For example, ask the dog to sit.Once your dog has listened and obeyed, give her praise.

Method Three – Manage

It may be best to put your dog in her crate or in a separate room just before guests arrive. Introduce the dog once everyone is settled.Put your dog on a leash and ask her to sit as guests arrive.

General Advice

When you are training your dog to stop jumping up, do not raise your voice, push your dog away or try to “knee” her. These actions can make your dog even more excited. 

Also, be prepared with treats and periodically reward your dog with them once she has greeted you appropriately. Always give verbal praise when the desired behavior is displayed.

Be consistent and rigorous with your technique. Mixed behaviors on your part send your dog mixed signals. You are the Alpha and she will follow your lead.