Why do dogs jump up?
Dogs may jump because they are excited, want to greet someone or have learned that jumping gets attention.
For puppies, this is especially common and needs to be taught.
What happens after the jump?
If jumping gets talking, eye contact or petting, the behaviour can be reinforced even when the person is trying to stop it.
Look at what the dog gets from the behaviour.
Teach an alternative
“Do not jump” does not tell the dog what to do instead.
Teach behaviours such as keeping four paws on the floor, sitting, looking at you or waiting before greeting.
Practise before the dog is overexcited
Learning is harder when the dog is already extremely excited.
Start with easier people and situations, then gradually increase the challenge.
Visitors are part of the training
Ask visitors to ignore the dog while they are jumping.
When the dog has four paws on the floor or sits, they can receive attention.
What about on walks?
The same principle applies outdoors. We do not necessarily need to stop every greeting.
We want the dog to learn a calm and appropriate way to greet people.