🐶 Full Article: How to Stop Your Dog from Jumping on People
Jumping might seem like a sign of love from your dog, but to guests, strangers, or small children — it can be overwhelming (and sometimes dangerous). The good news? With the right training, you can teach your dog to greet people politely — all four paws on the floor.
Let’s fix the jumping habit!
🤔 Why Dogs Jump
Before we stop the behavior, we need to understand why they do it:
- Seeking attention
- Excited to see you
- Learned behavior that was unknowingly rewarded
- Trying to get close to your face (dog-style greeting)
✅ 7 Ways to Stop Your Dog from Jumping on People
1. Ignore the Jump
No eye contact. No talking. No touching.
Jumping = zero attention.
🧠 Even scolding = attention to your dog.
2. Reward Calm Greetings
When your dog keeps all four paws on the floor, mark that moment with a “Yes!” and a treat or praise.
Repeat it until “calm = reward” becomes a habit.
3. Use a “Sit” Command
Train your dog to sit as a default when greeting people. This redirects their excitement into a controlled behavior.
4. Teach “Off” Command
Use a consistent verbal cue like “Off” if they jump.
Only say it once, then guide them gently back down — no shouting.
5. Practice with Friends
Ask a friend to help with training sessions:
- Friend enters → Dog jumps → Friend turns away
- Dog sits → Friend rewards
Repeat until your dog makes the connection.
6. Manage the Environment
Use a leash when guests arrive to control the situation.
In early stages, it’s okay to put them behind a gate or in a crate until calm.
7. Stay Consistent
Everyone in the house must follow the same rules.
If one person allows jumping and the other doesn’t, your dog will stay confused.
🐾 What Not to Do
- ❌ Don’t knee your dog in the chest
- ❌ Don’t shout or push them harshly
- ❌ Don’t give mixed signals (e.g., laughing when they jump on you)
❤️ Final Thoughts
Jumping is natural for dogs — but with calm, consistent training, you can teach them a better way to show love. Every time your dog chooses to stay grounded instead of launching into your lap… that’s a win!
Start today — one “paws-on-the-ground” greeting at a time.