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.
Training Your Dog to Stop Jumping
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.
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.
In Home Dog Training with Michael’s Pack
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.