Attitude Adjustment What does dog want when he jumps up? Attention. If you and all your guests can be consistent with giving attention only when he’s not jumping, he will stop jumping in a matter of days. Reward only greetings that you want repeated. When he jumps on you, stand tall and turn your back. You are literally a tree. Do not yell, make eye contact or reach down, simply take your attention away. Be aware, keeping him in your peripheral vision. The second he puts all four paws on the ground, turn around and give him a few treats (to keep him on the ground) and say “greet”, “yes” while petting him.
Keep the hand with the treat right at his nose so he does not have any additional reasons to jump on you. Make sure you pet him slow and talk softly to him so it does not excite him. Excitement = Jumping. When your dog jumps, take away what he wants most – Attention!
Guests Though it’s inconvenient to ask your friends to not give any attention while jumping, it will pay off and you’ll probably have more guests if your dog learns to approach guests with manners. It’s best to have your dog on leash with all guests coming in so he never has an opportunity to jump. The more practice he gets greeting guests appropriately, the quicker you can keep the leash off when guests arrive. Have your guests come in and approach your dog. If he jumps, they walk away before his paws touch them. Touching = Attention. This usually takes 3-5 attempts, when he finally keeps all four paws on the floor, say “greet”, “yes” and the reward is that person’s attention. Again, slow and soft to keep him calm.
