Ask the Trainer! This Week's Topic: Jumping

Do you have a burning question about your dog's behavior? Or a question about dogs in general? Post a comment and we will get to as many as we can! 

Here's one to start you out:

"I can't get my dog to stop jumping on us and on visitors! I have tried pushing, yelling, and kneeing him. Nothing seems to work. Help!"

Dogs usually jump to get closer to our faces. Since we're on two legs and they are on four, they need to make themselves taller to greet us in doggy-fashion - by licking our faces. But that doesn't mean you have to let Fido knock over Granny! Here's how to solve this bad habit.

• Stop touching or talking to your dog when he jumps. Even what you think is a punishment - pushing or yelling - can be rewarding to your dog. "She's talking to me! She's playing 'push' with me! I should jump harder! This is FUN!!"
• Turn sideways and cross your arms when your dog jumps, and instruct visitors to do the same. This body language means "I don't like what you're doing" in dog.
• As soon as your dog has all 4 feet on the floor, make sure to praise him and give him what he wants - attention! We want to reverse the cause and effect. Jumping now means he gets ignored, and being polite means he gets attention.
• You can also put your dog on a leash, and any time he jumps have the person turn and walk away. He'll learn that people go away when he jumps, and stay and pet him when he's polite.

Sometimes, having someone come in the front door is just way too exciting! For some dogs, it's better to put them away in a room or a crate until the visitor is inside and sitting down. Many times they will be much calmer if they don't greet the visitor at the doorway.

Now it's your turn! Post a question in the comments, or email meghan@caninelifestyleacademy.com. We will get to as many as we can!

Meghan is the owner of Canine Lifestyle Academy, LLC, a Sykesville dog training business which focuses on what dog owners really want - a dog that just behaves, without too much hassle! She lives in Sykesville with her fiance, two wonderful dogs: Kyra and Marcus, three-year-old German Shepherd rescues; and various foster dogs. You can find CLA's website at: www.caninelifestyleacademy.com