Jumping Dog Problem - How to Stop Dog from Jumping Behavior
Many dogs have a habit of trying to jump on people and it is suggested that the dog is trying to interact by getting closer to the person’s face. When with other dogs, especially of the same breed, their faces are usually at the same level and the dog is able to use its eyes and nose to explore. Jumping behavior varies between breeds and the individual character of the dog. To help stem this activity, kneel and interact with a dog at its level so they are able to explore your face safely, though you need to watch for excessive assertive behavior by the dog. There are very few instances where a dog will bite its owner in this situation, especially if the dog views the owner as the ‘alpha’ (leader). You do need to take safety measures when using this method, particularly if the dog has only recently become part of the family, especially if the dog is older, and was obtained from a shelter. Place a collar on the dog, and put your thumb under it behind the dog’s neck, being prepared to pull the dog sideways if required. Where possible, it is better to pull a dog sideways rather than backwards. Despite having strong neck muscles, their throats bruise easily. By pulling sideways, the owner is protected and the dog is aware of wrong behavior, but not punished. Another option is off-leash training. Make sure you are wearing thick, protective pants and get the dog to stand in front of you. A dog isn’t able to sit constantly, but it is a good command to help stop a dog from jumping. As jumping often happens after standing or running, begin training with the dog in a standing position. Be aware of how your dogs’ body language changes when it’s about to jump, and when you see them begin this behavior order them to ‘sit’. Should the dog still jump, knock the dog gently on the chest with your knee or thigh. Also put your palm near the dog’s face and away from you while commanding ‘off!’ (rather than ‘down’ as this should be used in different circumstances.) The intention isn’t to smash into the dog’s chest or to put your hand on its face. Raising the leg is meant to keep the dog off balance and the hand is used to slightly block its vision and discourage jumping behavior. Leash training, especially with a partner, can be very useful in stubborn cases. When the dog begins to jump, have your partner pull sideways as you give the ‘off’ command. As the dog is focusing on you when it is trying to jump, you need to be the one to issue the command. If working outside without a partner, you may be able to use a long leash wrapped around a tree or post. Often this will result in pulling the dog backwards rather than sideways though. A different method is to use positive reinforcement. Have a treat or favorite toy in one hand and as the dog begins to jump, hold the toy or treat slightly above and behind the dog’s head. This serves to divert the dog’s attention and also puts it a little off balance. If prior ‘sit’ training has been undertaken, it also encourages this behavior, just as the impulse was to jump. As with any training, you need to be patient and firm, using repetition and consistency to teach the dog the command ‘off’. With regular training, most dogs will learn not to jump unless they are given permission. More Dog Training Tips Articles: | 