One of the most annoying behaviors that a dog can exhibit is jumping. Annoying as it may be, many experts say this is simply the dogs way of getting closer to you. Even if a large dog has the best intentions, it can be a very scary thing and it may be in your best interest to find out how to stop dog jumping behavior before something bad happens.



A dog's natural behavior is to jump up on a person when they want to be friendly. As the owner of the dog, you need to train your dog not to jump up on people. Also, let people know if they want to pet your dog, to kneel down to the dog's level. As the dog's owner, you should be an example, and kneel down to your dog. At the same time, show where the dog likes to be given attention. For example, rubbing behind the ears, sniffing your hand first, or scratching a dog's chest.

Teaching your dog how to sit is very important first step in learning how to stop dog jumping activity. By performing this command, you dog will be distracted from jumping, so you must make sure that he sits when he hears the command. You should continue the training until your dog sits ALL of the time or else it won't be considered successful.

Begin your training with your dog standing in front of you and talk to him gently. If you watch him closely enough you will notice little signs that he is getting ready to jump up on you and wanting to play. At first just gently and firmly say, "Sit" to your dog. He may or may not do this at first and chances are he will not. This is when you lift you knee up to his chest, look at him and gently but firmly say, "Off." Many people make the mistake of telling the dog "Down" but that just confuses him because it is the command to lay down. Remember to say, "Off" and gently use your knee to discourage him from jumping on you.

Try not to scare or hurt your dog, just gently knock him off balance. Lifting your knee a bit should do the job. This is just associating the command with the action. Make sure he gets rewarded with a treat and verbal praise when it is done. With enough repetition, he will soon obey the "Off" command.

A dog that jumps up on people with no control is an accident waiting to happen. Learning how to stop dog jumping behavior in your dog can prevent harm to others and, maybe even to your dog.