Changing A Behavior in Dogs

Jumping up to greet a person is a dogs way of getting close to the action; your face and hands. Unfortunately, some of these normal behaviors for the dog become irritating to the human owner.

Often people call with the question, “My dog did so well in obedience class, but he still jumps up at home.” A behavior is the actual jumping up, obedience training is teaching the dog simple commands and having him obey them. While one can utilize obedience training in shaping a behavior, just because a dog knows how to heel and sit in class does not mean he understands why not to jump up on people.

To change the jumping up behavior, it is vital to have everyone that deals with the dog comply or the behavior will never go away. When the puppy is little and cute, if he is allowed to jump up on you, he is learning that jumping up on your leg gets your attention and you look down at him and pet him or talk to him. Instead, even as a 8 week old puppy, have him sit in front of you, give him a little food treat and pet him all you want. If he gets up and jumps up on you, stop immediately, ask him to sit again and resume petting. It is important to stop petting or interacting in any way when he jumps up and to only give him your attention when he is sitting down.

Even very young puppies learn this quickly and if everyone follows through you will never have a problem. Often the problem develops because while Mom is trying to teach the puppy not to jump up,the kids are encouraging him and playing with him when he does jump. Since the puppy is reinforced with attention, he continues to jump up and Mom’s frustration builds. Young children can learn how to ask the puppy to sit and then pet him. It is also safer for them as they have less chance of being knocked over or scratched, when that cute little puppy grows up and is taller and bigger than the children.

Provided as a public service by Conni Borwick at 941-745-2054.