Jumping: How to Keep Your Puppy on the Ground
Jumping is one of those things that sometimes get overlooked when you bring your new puppy home. After all, when they are small and cuddly, the jumping comes across as cute. Once your dog is full grown, the jumping may be less desirable. The best way to avoid letting the jumping get out of hand is to break the habit early on.
Jumping is a natural reaction for your puppy; it is how dogs show affection and love. Unfortunately, this innate instinct isn't necessarily acceptable in his new home. The best way to teach your new puppy that you don't want him to jump is to be consistent in your teaching. You can't vary your message. Don't let him jump up to greet you, but punish him for jumping up to greet visitors to your home.
One of the ways to stop the jumping is to reward a preferred behavior. When puppy jumps, reply with a simple but firm "no". Reward puppy with affection and/or a treat when he stops jumping and is sitting calmly in front of you. Puppies respond well to positive reinforcement.
As part of the learning process, avoid getting your puppy all excited when you come home. Do not encourage the jumping by picking him up, playing with him or generally responding to his excitement. If you don't excite them, but instead say hello and quietly go about your business, they will learn that jumping when someone comes in the door is not acceptable.
As with any type obedience training, the key to success is consistency. You must use the same method each time, practice it often and ignore unwanted behavior as part of your training process. Remember that praise is always a great way to encourage any positive behavior in your puppy.
