Training Your New Puppy

Jumping Up

Nearly all puppies jump up. The reason why dogs persist in this habit is that they get rewarded for the behaviour. People either pet or scold their puppy when they jump up, both are highly rewarding responses.

Start training your family and friends right away. Each and every time your puppy jumps up, stand up straight and turn your body to the side or turn your back and fold your arms. Do not talk to, touch or look at your puppy, until he has all four feet on the floor, or chooses to sit.

Then and only then can you greet him and give him a treat or praise. This needs to be consistent! If you have even one person that pets the puppy for jumping, your mission will fail.

Beware of visitors who say, " I don't mind". If you know someone like this, have some treats or a toy by the door. As they come in give your visitor the treats or toy and tell them that the puppy can only have it when he is sitting. Your visitor will instantly become a dog trainer and will insist that the puppy sits before giving him the reward. Problem solved!

For some puppies, especially gundogs, carrying a toy in their mouths has a magical effect of preventing them from jumping up. If yours is one of these, send your puppy to get a toy to bring to your visitors. It increases your control and looks cute as well.