The problem of dogs jumping is very common. Many dog owners unwittingly encourage this behavior by enthusiastically responding to a puppy that scampers towards them and makes small jumps at their knees.
The puppy learns very quickly that jumping up results in him getting plenty of hugs and kisses. Dogs can't possibly understand the difference between a small puppy and a large adult dog jumping up.
Your dog will see no good reason to stop jumping just because he's somewhat older. You will need to make it clear to him that jumping is no longer acceptable.
So when is jumping inappropriate?
Some owners of small dogs see jumping as an indication of affection and enthusiasm. Thankfully, it is unlikely that the rambunctious antics of these dogs would knock anyone over, plus they are so small that the only person likely to be intimidated by them would be a child. That said, most people do not like a strange animal of any size jumping up on them. In a nutshell, you should teach your dog the "off" command in case you aren't close enough to stop the jumping behavior.
The "no jump" or "off" command is necessary for owners of big dogs. Large dogs are often taller than a human when they stand on their hind legs - just think how intimidating that would be for a small child! As well, they are frequently sufficiently heavy to knock over an adult. Being scratched or bruised by your own dog is bad but it's much worse if it happens to someone else. Dog owners should make sure that dogs are furnished with a recall to the "off" command.
So why do dogs jump?
The reason for most dogs jumping is sheer excitement and enthusiasm. Some dogs only jump up when their owner returns from work after being away all day. If your dog jumps up on you at that time, he is simply jumping for joy. A less common yet serious reason is a dog jumping up to display his dominance over the person he is jumping on.
Your dog is obviously displaying his joy and enthusiasm if the only time he jumps up is during playtimes or when he is thrilled to see you. If the jumping occurs under a variety of circumstances, it is likely that your dog is displaying dominance behavior, which is indicative of a communication or attitude problem. Basically, there will need to be major changes in your relationship with your dog, including asserting yourself as "alpha dog".
Your reaction to dogs jumping up on you is key to whether the behavior is repeated or not. Consistent training over an extended period will be required in order to stop your dog's jumping behavior. He needs to be trained that it is always unacceptable for him to jump up. You can't allow your dog to jump up sometimes and not another time. Play and work clothes look the same to a dog so, if he's permitted to jump up on you sometimes, he'll try to jump up whenever he's in the mood.
How to put an end to your dog's jumping behavior
Most trainers are in agreement that the best way to stop undesirable behaviors in your dog, such as jumping, is also the simplest. You just need to walk away when he jumps up. Your dog should be given no attention whatsoever, which includes negative attention like pushing, correcting and yelling.
Here's how this training method works: when your dog jumps on you, immediately turn your back on him, fold your arms, turn your face away, and don't make eye contact with him. Dogs are able to interpret your body language so your posture will make it clear to him that jumping is inappropriate.
All too often, people make the mistake of ignoring the dog's bad behavior rather than ignoring the dog. The behavior is not being ignored (you're not carrying on as if the jumping isn't happening, you are actively ignoring your dog). Giving dogs the cold shoulder treatment is an extremely effective way to quickly communicate displeasure to them. When your attention and reaction are removed, your dog will quickly calm down.
The correct time to give him praise
Once all of your dog's feet are firmly back on the ground, you can heap praise on him. Once your dog's paws have touched the floor, you may give him attention even if you were ignoring him a moment earlier.
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