by Andy Sands, Certified Dog Trainer, Suncoast Good Citizen Dog
A dog jumping on guests is a common occurrence, especially with puppies and extremely friendly dogs. The friendlier the dog, the more persistent it typically is with the jumping. Why does the dog jump so much, and what does it really want to achieve from the jumping? Sometimes the jumping has been misconstrued by well-meaning individuals as a way for a dog to assert his “dominance.” This is absolutely incorrect. A dog that is jumping wants the attention and contact of the person that he is trying to jump up on. The dog is in effect saying, “Love me, love me, pay attention to me.” However, in the human world this is the wrong way to go about it. So, it is up to us to teach our dogs how to properly receive that love and attention they so desperately crave.
Dogs need to be desensitized to the things that excite them the most. And oftentimes, we and our fellow humans are what excite them the most. The key is asking the dog to sit every single time a visitor approaches. In other words, making them work for their reward. Remember, the love and attention from us is what the dogs seeks. Keep tasty treats nearby as well, as an added incentive, and always be ready to deliver one when the dog does the right thing (sitting).
Approach your dog. If he tries to jump on you, immediately step back or turn around, not allowing him to jump. At that point, he may actually sit down or you can ask him to “sit.” When he does – praise and treat the dog, then deliver the affection he is seeking. If the dog does not jump up, invite him to jump by saying “you want to jump on me” and clapping your hands on your thighs. Then, when he jumps step back or turn around and follow the instructions above.
If your dog is persistent and continues to jump or follows you even when you turn around, then turn and walk away. You are, in fact, gently punishing the dog by ignoring him, thereby depriving him of what he wants most – contact! Time may be needed, but your dog will learn, especially if you repeat this process several times with different people and in different places. It’s best not to shout or raise your knee into the dog’s chest. This tends to reinforce the behavior by giving the dog the contact he seeks and encouraging play.
If, after a while the dog sits on his own, without you having to command it, it’s time for a jackpot. A jackpot is a small handful of little treats to really set the dogs bells off. After receiving a jackpot for a job well done, the dog is more likely to behave in a similar way the next time someone arrives on the scene.
