Stop Your Dog From Jumping Up

Of course, any dog owner knows that there are plenty of irritating things your pooch can do. Most owners will find that consistent training in the puppy stage will stop most unwanted behavior. However, some adult dogs develop bad manners simply because they receive less attention as an adult than they did as a puppy. Most owners are disturbed by continuous barking and seek ways to rectify the behavior. Barking is not necessarily a danger to anyone coming to your door, but it can become an extremely unpleasant situation. On the other hand, visitors greeted with a dog jumping up on them are not only bothered by the behavior, but they can be injured by it as well.

Why the Behavior and How to Correct It?

Excitement and happiness to see its owner or other visitors may be the primary reason for a dog jumping up on people. On the other hand, the dog could be trying to establish his authority over those entering his territory or he could simply be bored. The downside to the pleasure of being greeted so enthusiastically is to possibly have your clothing ruined, be scratched by claws or even be physically knocked down. This becomes obviously clear and pertinent in the home with small kids and older folk that may sustain serious injury from a dog jumping up on them.

Of course, as with any training, it is easiest to stop a dog from jumping up when she is still just a pup. Jumping up should never be given positive attention, as this only praises the dog for his behavior. The owner must be constant in his efforts to stop the dog from jumping up on people, as just one instance of attention for the behavior will encourage it further. She will then begin to realize that she must be obedient to receive attention. Allowing a dog to jump up some of the time because it's "cute" and praising her, only to discipline her for doing it at other times, only confuses the dog. If this is the case, she may never really understand. The owner must demand the same behavior of the dog whether it's for a guest or a member of the family.

In order to effectively stop dogs from jumping up, the owner should shun the dog with body language-- avoiding eye contact and positioning their body opposite of the dog. Ignore her completely until she is no longer overly excited, and then give her eye contact. One effective method to stop a dog from jumping up is to divert her attention from the negative behavior to focus on a positive one, such as giving her the command to "sit." This is a great way for your dog to maintain good behavior to get the affection she craves, rather than jumping up to get it.

As a consultant focussing on dog training, James helps owners and their pets improve their relationship. Puppy training is another of his specialties. Enjoy a tour of his website for tips on how to teach your pup. Once there, you'll see product reviews, helpful tips, and a free booklet on dog training.

Learn more at: www.puppy-training-advice.com/stop-dogs-jumping