When dogs jump, it is generally because they are excited or happy. To them, jumping is a good thing, so changing their behavior requires special training and exercises. This is best done through positive reinforcement, as you want to be careful not to discourage your dog from being happy. Teaching a dog when it is and isn’t okay to jump requires as much behavioral change on the part of a dog’s guardian as the dog itself.

When a puppy runs up to you and jumps in excitement, it’s cute and makes you feel special. While they are puppies, it may not cause much of a problem, but without proper training, dogs will grow up and continue their jumping behavior. This can be a problem when it comes to having guests to your home, especially those who may not feel comfortable around dogs in the first place.

Jumping up on counters, also called counter-surfing, is also a common problem with dogs, especially when food is being prepared. Preventing access to the kitchen can help curb this behavior but most people would prefer to not have to use gates or keep doors closed all the time. It will be better in the long run to train your dog to not jump. It may take time and consistency, but that extra bit of effort will go a long way.

There are a few ways to respond to your dog jumping:

• If you are playing and your dog is jumping a lot, drop any toys you are holding and walk away. They will learn to associate jumping with the end of playtime.
• If your dog starts jumping while you prepare their food, walk completely away.
• If your dog jumps when you come home, wait a moment outside the door for your dog to calm down before you enter.

In these common situations, your dog jumps because they want something – a toy, food, and most often your attention. If they see that they will not get those things when they jump, they will eventually cut down on how much they jump.

If your dog is a jumper, their behavior isn’t going to change overnight. However, with the help of the experienced trainers at Michael’s Pack, your dog will learn when it is not an appropriate behavior. In home dog training is especially effective as the dog will be learning in their primary environment. Contact Michael’s Pack today with any questions and to discuss our dog training services. We offer in home dog training in New Jersey and New York, as well as personal and group sessions at our facility in Mineola, Long Island.