How to Stop a Dog Jumping Up at People
Jumping up is a greeting, and most dogs have been rewarded for it many times. Here is why it happens, what to do instead, and a simple plan that works for family, visitors and strangers on walks.
In short
Jumping up is a greeting, and most dogs have been rewarded for it many times. Here is why it happens, what to do instead, and a simple plan that works for family, visitors and strangers on walks.
Dogs jump up to greet faces — it is what dogs do with each other. Puppies are usually rewarded for it because it is cute, and by the time the dog is big enough to knock someone over, the habit is well established. The fix is not stopping your dog from greeting people; it is teaching a different way to greet that earns the attention instead.
Why Pushing Away Does Not Work
Pushing a dog down, shouting "off" or kneeing them in the chest is still attention. Many dogs find it exciting and jump more. Punishment can also make some dogs anxious around greetings, which brings other problems.
The Plan
1. Decide What You Want
Choose one alternative: a sit, or simply four paws on the floor. Four paws is easier for very excited dogs; a sit is easier to reward clearly.
2. Teach It When Things Are Calm
Practise the sit for treats in quiet moments until it is quick and reliable.
3. Make Greetings Boring Until Paws Are Down
- When your dog jumps, turn away calmly and say nothing
- The moment all four paws are on the floor or your dog sits, turn back and greet calmly
- If they jump again, turn away again
Your dog learns: jumping makes the person disappear, paws on the floor makes them pay attention.
4. Keep Arrivals Low-Key
Big excited greetings at the door wind a dog up. Come in calmly and greet your dog once they have settled a little.
Puppy Training Tracker
Consistency is the whole game with jumping up. The Puppy Training Tracker gives you printable session logs to note practice, setbacks and progress — useful for dogs of any age.
Get the Puppy Training Tracker →Visitors
- Have your dog on a lead or behind a baby gate when guests arrive
- Ask guests to ignore your dog until they are calm
- Let your dog greet once settled, rewarding a sit
- Keep a jar of treats by the door so the calm greeting is always rewarded
On Walks
Strangers are the hardest, because they often encourage jumping. Keep your dog on a lead, ask for a sit before anyone approaches, and do not be afraid to say "please wait until he sits".
Everyone Has to Be Consistent
If one family member lets the dog jump up after work, the dog learns that jumping still works sometimes — and behaviours that work sometimes are the hardest to change. Agree on the rule as a household.
Expect a Short Spike
When jumping stops working, many dogs try harder for a while before giving up. Stay consistent through it.
Two ways to track training
Focused on training sessions? Choose the Puppy Training Tracker. Want training alongside daily care and household rules? Choose the Complete Dog Owner Binder.
Get the Complete Dog Owner Binder →Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to stop a dog jumping up?
Many dogs improve within a couple of weeks of consistent practice. Older habits take longer.
Should I let my dog jump on me but not on guests?
That is harder for a dog to understand. If you want jumping on cue, teach it as a trick with a clear signal.
My dog jumps up and nips. Is that aggression?
Usually it is over-excitement, especially in young dogs. If you are unsure, or it seems more serious, talk to a qualified behaviourist.
Printable and fillable PDF templates for pet owners — feeding schedules, health records, training trackers and more.