Stopping Your Dog from Jumping
A frequent problem many people have is their dog’s jumping. When your dog is a puppy, people think that it is adorable when they jump, making bad behavior a common occurrence without realizing it. However, as the dog gets bigger and older that charming habit becomes a dangerous one, as well as a one that is very difficult to break.
It is vital that your training of your dog, including teaching it not to jump, begin as soon as you bring your pet home. Remember, it is never too late to start training your pet, whether it is a puppy or an older dog, as long as you don’t get frustrated and stick to the plan. Again, the trick is to begin the training process as soon as your dog comes home and this will not only reinforce your position as master but also aid in keeping negative behavior from developing into a habit.
Getting your Dog to Learn How to Not Jump
Step #1 – Institute an Off Command
Making a specific off command is one of the first things you should handle. This command is to be used every time you dog jumps on you or a member of your family. The word “off” is good, but you can use “down” or another word of your choice. At every instance of the dog jumping on you, forcefully use the off command. Your dog will learn at an even quicker rate if you have other people use the same commands when your dog jumps up onto them, showing your dog that no one approves of that type of behavior.
Step #2 – Train Your Dog to Sit
If you want to find other ways to keep your dog from jumping, you should show your dog how to sit. Use your sit command as soon as your dog comes up to you. As the training proceeds, you will soon have your dog sitting when he greets you, rather than jumping on you and ruining your clothing or knocking you over.
Step #3 – Get on the same level
Get down at your dog’s level when you say hello to him or her. Your dog will be less likely to jump up onto you because you will be at eye level with them already, making them very happy. Your dog will have no need to jump if you bend down to see him. When you finish acknowledging your dog, if it jumps up for more attention, demonstratively use the off command and then the sit command to make it known that jumping is not allowed.
Step #4 – Use a Time Out
Should you have difficulty with your dog responding to either the off or the sit command, going into a time out period may be necessary. When the dog jumps up and does not adhere to your commands, put them in their crate or kennel. You will cut off the attention that your dog is seeking by putting him in a time out when they misbehave, showing them that you will not stand for that type of behavior and you won’t positively reinforce it by spending more time with your dog.
Consistency is important, and if you are able to consistently follow these steps you will soon find that your dog has stopped jumping. It is natural that some dogs will learn this faster than others, so you may also need to be patient. The trick is to maintain consistency in your commands and not be discouraged if the dog does not appear to listen. If you find that your dog is particularly stubborn and he continues to resist the lesson and continue jumping, then you should probably seek the services of a professional dog trainer who can help you determine exactly where the breakdown is in your training methods.
