I visit many people in their homes every week by assisting them finding solutions to their dog issues. They are those that are happy to have their little fluffy jump on them, but find it unacceptable to have their giant dog do the same. Go figure? Large or small, old or young, jumping up on people is a universal message- it doesn't change the headspace thanks to the size of the dog.

There are several reasons that explain why dogs jump on people. For one….it is standard dog behavior! Standard “but not satisfactory! It isn't suitable in a pack of dogs unless the offending dog is the leader and in that case- go jump on whoever you like!

GREETING:

When in play and socialising puppies and dogs have to figure out where they rank in each particular social group. It may be the regular family pack; it could be a new social group at the park or a friend’s dog that is over to visit.

It is quite normal for dogs to welcome one another by first sniffing each others faces, then moving to their rear ends (where the info is).

Because, generally speaking, dogs are smaller compared to humans, the sole way they can greet somebody in the same manner is by jumping up. They adore a good crutch sniff then too- so much information!

Young puppies will try to get right in your face because they require attention that way from higher ranking dogs and in truth as little puppies changing to solids, they get fed that way by exciting them to regurgitate their food by licking under their chins. Yuk!

ATTENTION SEEKING:

Jumping can also be an attention seeking behavior, even if the resulting attention is more frequently than not, a negative reaction. This behaviour is often unintentionally braced if they dog has been permitted to jump up on some occasions and not on others a dog won't simply be able to tell the difference between when it is and when it's not an acceptable instance to jump.

This particularly applies to a dog that was authorized or perhaps inspired to leap when he was a puppy, and of a far littler size! While this fellow is not always a cheeky dog, he requires teaching some manners! Stick to the rules- you either allow it and people get smashed- or you don't allow it- EVER- for ANYONE- even the big powerful male human of the family, who can cope or actually encourages it in play!

SPACE INVASION:

The next reason is generally reserved for the stronger character type dogs- a few individuals like to pigeonhole them ‘Dominant’. However your dog could be a passive dominant dog though and you are currently ignorant of it- it is not always about huff and puff!

Your personal space is just that- YOURS! If you were to be jostled around or moved out of the way by somebody there would most likely be something to say, but somehow with a dog we tolerate being bullied. Shield your space! When your dog takes your space by jumping onto you it's a major statement.

WHAT TO DO:

There are many ways that you can prevent your dog from jumping on you:

The 1st and most clear way: Ignore him .

When your dog starts jumping, stand still, cross your arms and have a look at the ceiling. Completely pay no attention to your dog until he's calm. Once he has stopped jumping, praise him.

Alternatively, as he jumps up, you can turn around and face the other direction. As the dog moves sideways, give him the sit command, and if he obeys, praise him.

Bear in mind that getting your dog to obey a command beats physical interference every single time. If he won't obey your commands, then you need to re-establish your leader position, and have daily obedience sessions with your dog.

Takes rather more strategy: Beat him to it

When you see your dog is about to jump on you- take a gigantic step in the direction of him instead , this takes his space instead of him taking yours. The dog will take a couple of steps backwards to prevent being stepped on, at which point you can give him the sit command. If he obeys, praise him.

Teach the “Off!” Command

Attach your dog’s leash, and put him in a situation in which he would usually jump. When he jumps up, give the command “OFF” in a firm tone, and gradually pull your dogs leash to one side, so that he is forced to drop back onto all 4s. Then praise him for staying in that position, even if only briefly.

If you're searching forfurther ways to stop dog jumping then please visit our website or visit us on facebook.

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Sandra Mullay is a dog trainer in Wollongong. She can show you how to train your dog without shouting, hitting or demeaning your dog. As Illawarra’s Leading dog trainer with over 17 years experience there is no better dog instructor.

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