Dogs Jumping
The problem of dog jumping is very common. Many dog owners unwittingly encourage this behavior by enthusiastically responding to a puppy that races towards them and makes small jumps at their knees.
The puppy quickly realizes that jumping up gets him lots of hugs and kisses. Dogs can’t possibly understand the difference between a small puppy and a large adult dog jumping up.
Your dog will see no good reason to stop jumping just because he’s somewhat older. You will need to make it clear to your dog that jumping is no longer acceptable.
So when is jumping inappropriate?
Jumping up is viewed by some owners of toy dogs as a sign of affection. Fortunately, these dogs are unlikely to knock anyone over with their boisterous behavior, and their small size normally wouldn’t intimidate anyone except for a very young child. Even so, it is unusual for anyone to enjoy a strange dog jumping up no matter how small their size. Simply put, it is a good idea to teach your dog the “off” command for those times when you’re not close by to prevent the jumping behavior.
The “no jump” or “off” command is essential for owners of large dogs. Frequently, a large dog standing on his hind legs will be taller than a human being – just think how intimidating that would be for a small child! Also, they are often heavy enough to knock over a smaller adult. Having your own dog scratch or bruise you is not good but it’s far worse if he harms someone else. Dog owners should make sure that dogs are furnished with a recall to the “off” command.
So why do dogs jump?
Most dogs jump up out of excitement. Often dogs will only jump up when their master comes home after being away the entire day. If your dog jumps up on you at that time, he is simply jumping for joy. Some dogs jump up to show their dominance over the person which is a serious issue.
Your dog is obviously displaying his joy and enthusiasm if the only time he jumps up is during playtimes or when he is thrilled to see you. If the jumping occurs under many different circumstances, it is probable that your dog is showing dominance behavior, which is indicative of a communication or attitude problem. This will require modifications in the way you and your dog relate to each other, with emphasis being placed on your role as top dog.
Useful Tip: Secrets to Dog Training is an amazing guide designed to help dog owners tackle dominance issues in their dog. To stop your dog’s jumping behavior, visit Dogs Jumping.
Your reaction to dogs jumping up on you is key to whether the behavior is repeated or not. A consistent and prolonged effort will be necessary to stop your dog from jumping. He needs to be trained that it is always unacceptable for him to jump up. You can’t allow your dog to jump up sometimes and not another time. To a dog, your work and play clothing look the same – if you allow him to jump up some of the time, he’ll attempt to do it whenever he feels the inclination.
How to stop your dog from jumping up
Most trainers are in agreement that the best way to stop undesirable behaviors in your dog, such as jumping, is also the simplest. If he jumps up, you need to walk away. All attention should be withdrawn (including negative attention such as shouting, pushing or correcting).
Here’s how this training technique works: when your dog jumps up on you, right away turn your back on him, fold your arms, turn your face away, and don’t make eye contact with him. Dogs can understand body language more than vocals so he will be able to tell from your posture that his jumping is unacceptable.
Many people confuse disregarding their dog’s bad behavior with disregarding their dog. Rather than pretending that your dog’s jumping behavior isn’t happening, you should be ignoring your dog. You can easily let dogs know that you are not pleased by giving them the cold shoulder treatment. When your attention and reaction are removed, your dog will quickly calm down.
The appropriate time to praise your dog
Once all of your dog’s feet are firmly back on the ground, you can heap praise on him. Even if you were giving him the cold shoulder treatment a second before, it’s fine for you to show enthusiasm the moment his paws touch the floor.
For more information on how to stop dog jumping, visit Dog Jumping Up.