How to Stop Your Dog from Jumping Up

How to Stop Your Dog from Jumping Up: Fun and Positive Alternatives for Excited Greetings

Does your dog jump on guests or greet you by leaping up? Learn how to stop your dog from jumping up with gentle, positive training and fun ways to redirect excitement into polite behavior.

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Why Dogs Jump Up

If your dog greets you with paws flying, you’re not alone! Jumping up is one of the most common (and enthusiastic) dog behaviors. Dogs do it to get close to our faces — it’s their way of saying hello! Over time, they learn that jumping earns attention, even if it’s us saying “off.”

The solution isn’t to scold or ignore your dog’s joy, but to redirect that excitement into polite and fun alternatives that make greetings enjoyable for everyone.

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Step 1: Stay Calm and Consistent

When your dog jumps, any reaction (even “no!”) can reward the behavior with attention. Try this instead:

• Stand tall and turn slightly away when paws come up.

• Avoid eye contact or talking until all four paws are on the floor.

• The instant your dog is calm, greet and praise warmly.

 Pro tip: Have everyone in the household follow the same rule — dogs learn fastest when everyone is consistent!

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Step 2: Teach a Polite Alternative

Dogs can’t jump and sit (or hold a toy) at the same time! Giving them something else to do channels their energy in a positive way.

Here are a few ideas:

Sit to Say Hi – Teach your dog that sitting makes people come closer. Practice short greetings, rewarding every calm sit with attention or treats.

Get Your Toy! – Keep toys near the door. Encourage your dog to grab one before saying hello. This redirects their mouth and paws while keeping excitement fun.

Touch Targeting – Train your dog to touch their nose to your hand (“touch”) instead of jumping. It’s simple, positive, and keeps all paws grounded.

Spin or Shake – Some dogs need a physical outlet. Ask for a quick spin or a shake to channel that energy into a trick!

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Step 3: Practice Real-Life Greetings

Set up practice sessions with friends or family members:

• Keep your dog on leash if needed to help manage the situation.

• Ask your helper to only greet when your dog remains calm or sits.

• Reward success generously!

Start in easy, low-distraction environments before trying more exciting scenarios (like guests at the door).

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Step 4: Celebrate and Keep It Fun

Your dog’s excitement is a sign of love — and that’s something to celebrate! The goal isn’t to take away their enthusiasm, but to teach them how to express it politely. With time and consistency, you’ll enjoy joyful, jump-free greetings that make everyone happy.

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Key Takeaway

Training your dog not to jump doesn’t have to be strict or boring. By offering positive alternatives and rewarding calm greetings, you’re teaching manners in a way that strengthens your bond — one polite hello at a time.