Why Does My Dog Jump on People?

Your dog loves people so much they just have to jump up and say hello, usually with muddy paws and usually on your best-dressed visitor. Jumping comes from a happy place, which is exactly why it’s so easy to fix with kindness.

Why dogs jump up

• To say hello: dogs greet each other face to face, so they try to reach ours.
• Excitement: visitors and homecomings are big events.
• It gets attention: even pushing them off or saying “no” is still attention.
• Nobody taught them otherwise: a cute jumping puppy grows into a big jumping dog.

What really helps

1. Turn away. When your dog jumps, calmly turn your back and fold your arms. No talking, no touching.
2. Reward four paws on the floor. The moment all paws are down, turn back, praise and give a small treat.
3. Teach “sit” for greetings. A dog can’t sit and jump at the same time.
4. Ask visitors to help. Everyone should follow the same rule, every time.
5. Keep greetings calm. Low-key hellos at the door help excitement settle faster.
6. Use small, tasty training treats so you can reward lots of good choices.

When to get extra help

If jumping comes with growling, nipping or seems fearful rather than happy, speak to your vet or a qualified behaviourist. Take extra care around small children and older people, who can easily be knocked over.

The heart of it

Your dog jumps because they’re overjoyed to see the people they love. Teaching them a calmer hello doesn’t take that love away. It just lets everyone enjoy it, muddy paws optional.