How to teach your dog not to jump on people and avoid accidents

Whether it's enthusiasm or sheer joie de vivre, our four-legged friends sometimes struggle to contain their excitement. Here's a humorous and informative guide to help you transform your little jumper into a perfect canine gentleman!

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Why does my dog ​​jump on people?

Before attempting to correct this behavior, it's essential to understand why your dog jumps on people. Generally, it's a way for him to express excitement , a need for attention , or even an attempt to show affection.

However, a puppy doesn't stay a puppy forever, and once it reaches adulthood, the situation changes. Its weight increases considerably, and this kind of display of affection could become dangerous. For your children, this can be particularly difficult, as an energetic dog weighing 20 to 50 kg jumping up to their face can cause a shock. What seems adorable to you could then be a source of accidents for them.

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1. Solutions for a calmer dog

1. Don't celebrate every time you walk through the front door

   One common mistake is arriving home like a rock star and turning your arrival into a huge ceremony, even a moment of deliverance for your dog. Of course, you're happy to see him again, and he is too. But don't make a big deal out of it. When you leave, just like when you arrive, if you pet him and talk to him as if it were the last time, don't be surprised if he jumps for joy when he sees you again; he thought you were lost forever… A little pat when you leave and a little one when you arrive is perfectly fine. Once you're settled in and he's no longer paying attention to your arrival, then you can call him over for some cuddles :)

2. Ignore the jumps (Yes, really!)

   One of the most effective ways to teach your dog not to jump is to completely ignore him when he does it. As difficult as it may seem, turn away, cross your arms, and avoid all eye contact . Dogs are excellent emotional detectives and quickly understand that their behavior isn't getting the attention they want.

3. Reinforce good behaviors

   The key to good training is rewarding good behavior. When your dog keeps all four paws on the ground, praise him warmly and give him a treat . Use simple commands like "sit" or "calm" to tell him what you expect. Little by little, he will associate staying calm with a reward.

4. Teach an alternative command

   Teaching your dog an alternative command, such as "sit," can be very effective. When he rushes to jump, immediately give him the "sit" command. Once he obeys, reward him generously. This redirects his energy and gives him a new, positive way to interact with people.

5. Use assistive devices

   Sometimes, a little help is needed. For example, use a toy you keep handy, placed near your front door. When your dog tries to jump on you, throw the toy to temporarily distract them and help them calm their impulses. But be aware, this method only applies to dogs who are unable to manage their excitement. If the dog can, it's always better to train them properly rather than throwing them a toy every time you come home.

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2. Tips for daily practice

Home visits

When guests arrive, ask them to participate in the training. Explain to them that they should ignore your dog if it jumps and only pay attention to it when it is calm. You can also prepare a small waiting area for your dog where it will have to stay until it has calmed down.

Public outings

Take some treats with you on your walks. When you pass people, ask your dog to sit and reward him if he remains calm . This will help him understand that good behavior is also required outside the home.

Patience is a virtue

Behavioral change doesn't happen overnight. Be patient and consistent . Every dog ​​learns at its own pace, and it's crucial to remain positive and consistent in your approach.

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3. Games and exercises to channel energy

Dogs with high energy levels are more likely to jump. Give your dog opportunities to expend their energy constructively. Here are a few ideas:

Intelligence games

Puzzles and other brain-teasing games for dogs are excellent tools for stimulating their minds and providing mental exercise. For example, you can use treat-dispensing toys, mazes, or hide-and-seek games to awaken their curiosity and intelligence. A mentally stimulated dog is often more balanced and calm, thus reducing undesirable behaviors caused by boredom.

Active play sessions

Physical activities like fetch, frisbee, or even agility courses are ideal for channeling your dog's energy. These games not only keep them fit but also reinforce their obedience and discipline. Be sure to dedicate time to these exercises daily, as a well-exercised dog is generally more relaxed and less prone to destructive behavior at home.

Education courses

Dog training classes are essential not only for teaching your dog new behaviors and commands, but also for improving their socialization with other dogs and people. These sessions offer valuable mental stimulation and help strengthen the bond between you and your pet. By participating in these classes, you also learn effective techniques for managing and correcting unwanted behaviors, thus contributing to a harmonious life together.

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4. In summary: A well-behaved dog is possible!

Teaching your dog not to jump on people requires patience, consistency, and lots of love. By understanding why your dog jumps and using positive reinforcement training methods, you'll quickly see improvements. Remember, every dog ​​is unique and progresses at their own pace. So, arm yourself with patience and treats, and you'll soon be rewarded with a calmer, better-behaved canine companion.