Problem Puppy Behaviors: How To Deal With Jumping on People

Dec 31, 2008 in Dog Behavior

Problem puppy behaviors are one of the major concerns of young dog owners. To be able to live happily with your pet and to create the kind of loving relationship that your puppy is only too willing to be in, take note of the following common problem puppy behaviors and learn how to deal with it the right way.

Jumping on People – Wagging tails and jumping on people are adorable in young pups. But keep in mind that your pet can’t remain a puppy forever and jumping on people will eventually become a problem once he gets older. Obviously, jumping on people are dangerous especially on little children. It can knock them off their feet and thus this behavior must be nipped at the bud.

The best way to deal with the problem is to start correcting the behavior. The younger the puppy is corrected, the better and the easier. When the puppy jumps on you or on someone else, gently place the puppy’s feet back on the floor. When the dog remains standing, be sure to praise and pat the puppy extensively.

It’s also important to understand that it’s a puppy’s instinct to jump on people when happy or excited. This is good for the puppy but as mentioned, dangerous for humans. Give your puppy an alternative activity to jumping up like presenting a paw instead of jumping up.

Consistency is important in training a puppy. Make sure that jumping is not tolerated by anyone else in the household, otherwise this will only confuse your pet.