Puppies are often encouraged to jump up on people. It is cute to see them jumping up and it is a nice display of affection. The problem is that these puppies will grow up thinking that jumping on humans is perfectly acceptable, and when they are fully matured they will be capable of doing real harm and becoming a nuisance.
Most of the time dogs jump up on people because they are very excited. You may have noticed this upon your arrival home from work, or if youve been out all day. The other reason that a dog may jump up on you is to show dominance. This is a problem that should be taken seriously.
Noticing the difference in jumping up to dominate and jumping up to express excitement is very easy. Jumping due to excitement usually happens when you arrive home or during playtime. If your dog jumps up on you at random times during the day, it is most likely trying to dominate you.
If your dog is trying to exert dominance over you, its vital that you show your dog that you are indeed the Alpha dog. You cant become the Alpha dog instantly, but through applying a few recommendations (shown below), you will quickly be able to command your dogs respect. Heres what you need to do to become the Alpha dog:
1. Dont greet your dog immediately when you arrive home. Greet your dog in a relaxed manner after you have already been in the house ten minutes.
2. Anytime you are going to give your dog attention, make him work for it ” always make your dog sit before giving it a treat.
3. Always give you dog food once you and your family have finished your meals.
4. Get your dog trained up in the basics of sit, stay, come and down.
Following these 4 simple tips will get you in Alpha Dog position in no time at all.
Having achieved Alpha dog status ” you are now in a position to train your dog not to jump. Before starting the training, remember that consistency is the key to success, and that no jumping should ever be allowed unless asked for.
Showing that jumping isnt ok can be done by giving your dog the cold shoulder. Next time your dog is about to jump, quickly turn away and dont give your dog any attention. You body language will show that jumping is unacceptable.
Keep ignoring your dog until it is calmly standing on all four feet next to you. You can now go ahead and praise the dog.
Practice makes perfect so keep practicing the method mentioned above. In a very short time frame your dog will learn not to jump up on you.
