The problem is jumping. As a dog trainer, I am often asked how to fix or stop people's dogs from jumping. For the most part, the situation dictates how the problem of jumping will be worked on and the easiest fix would be when you have time to set up for the problem. By that I mean, if you are expecting guests, and these are folks the dog has a history of jumping on, get prepared ahead of time. The best thing to do is to have the dog on leash before anyone arrives. This creates a means of control for your dog and prevents the jumping from starting.

There are many times when the dog is not on leash, and in a playful mood starts jumping, or maybe you are making a plate of food on a counter, and right next to you is the dog, paws on the counter, just seeing what you're doing, or looking to steal something. With front paws on the counter or on your person, I recommend (not to hurt the dog) to step on the dogs paw. The dog will be off quickly. Be sure to say, “off” or “no jump” firmly at the same time you step.

For the dog that puts paws on your chest, that hurts, you don't want to push it off and become all excited, the dog will think it's a game and continue to keep jumping up. This is when you grab both front paws and squeeze, the dog may start mouthing your hands because squeezing hurts. So simply say, “off” firmly, and let go of the dog.

These simple tools should aid in helping your dog in obedience training for jumping. Under no circumstances should you bring up your knee , or knee the dog in the chest, the possibility is there to severely hurt the dog. Dog training should never involve hurting an animal.

Remember to keep these actions consistent so that your dog will start to recognize what is right and wrong with the habits they were performing. 

If you have any questions, please call K-9 Communication at (203) 874-7299 or visit our website for additional information.