Dog Training - Dealing With Jumping
April 8th, 2008
Most dogs jump up at people at times. How often varies by breed and individual. We think that some are trying to get closer “face to face” to “pack interact” smell or explore - Not attack. This is something dogs to do each other all the time.
A good way to deal with this type of dog is to remove the need. Kneel and interact with the dog at its level. Let it explore safely while guarding against over assertiveness. Very rarely will a dog bite its owner this way, especially if the human is the the ‘alpha’ (pack leader).
If you’ve recently adopted an older dog, take more care when using this technique. Put a collar on the dog and keep a thumb inserted under it behind the dog’s neck ready to jerk sideways.
Sideways is preferable to back or iup as while dogs neck muscles are strong their throats can be easily bruised. Sideways jerks protect you both and teach - not punish - the dog.
Off-leash training is another way. Wear tough pants and have the dog stand in front of you. Training a ’sit’ is a good defense against jumping. But as jumping usually follows standing or running start the exercise with the dog standing.
Watch for the body tension that precedes jumping. When you see it order a ’sit’. If the dog jumps lift your leg slightly and bump the dog’s chest with your knee or thigh. Simultaneously, push a palm near the dog’s face away from you and give a sharp command: ‘off!’. (’Down’ is a separate behavior)
The raised knee helps to keep the dog off and puts it off balance. The hand near the face obscures its vision and discourages a repeat jump. Working with a partner can be very useful with this approach.
Positive reinforcement techniques can be used, too. With a treat or toy in one hand hold out the treat or toy above and slightly behind the dog’s head as it jumps. This distracts the dog and puts it slightly off balance. It also encourages a sit when the impulse was to jump.
Repetition and consistency are, as with any training essential. Be patient, firm, never angry. With time, most dogs will suppress this natural behavior unless they receive permission to jump.
More info? See Nicks dog land
Entry Filed under: Animal Care
Trackback this post