Ask the trainer: stop your dog jumping

This week's question is how to stop dogs jumping up at people.

Dogs jump for a variety of reasons but the most common is to say hello.

This is a normal behaviour and a struggle for many dog owners to manage.

To create great manners ask your dog for a behaviour like sit or down and stay then reward instead of pushing your dog off when it jumps on you as this can be seen as an invitation to play.

If you are consistent with asking for this behaviour and make sure everyone involved with your dog does the same this problem will become manageable. If you find yourself still struggling, turn your back on your dog or remove yourself from the room ignoring your dog completely to reinforce that this is not a behaviour you are willing to accept.

Dogs should be discouraged from jumping on anyone even though everyone knows someone who thinks it is okay for their dog to jump up to greet them.

The question is can you guarantee your dog can know when this behaviour is acceptable and not? Children and

elderly visitors are the usual victims of the jumping dog and the reality is that if your dog is a constant jumper eventually two things will happen, you will no longer have your visitors on a regular basis because they are unable to cope with the behaviour, or your dog will need to be removed and secured when they do visit.

Accidental injuries such as scratches and bruising are as easily inflicted by a small breed dog from jumping on someone as from medium and large breeds.

Size does matter so all dogs should be taught correct greeting manners. Ultimately, this means you have a companion everyone in your life can also enjoy. Even the non-dog lovers we know appreciate the company of a well-mannered dog.

Paw point of the week:

If you offer your dog no direction by asking it for behaviour you want it to give you, it has no way of knowing what it is expected to do and how to react.

Contact me for the chance to have your question selected for publication at nadines@dogguru.co.nz. For further information on Dog Guru visit www.dogguru.co.nz