How To Stop Your Dog Jumping Up On People: Training Tips That Work

We've all experienced that enthusiastic welcome — your dog launches up, wagging tail and all, to greet you face first. While it's heartwarming, jumping up can be problematic, especially around kids, older adults or guests who aren't as dog-savvy. Fortunately, with the right approach and tools, you can teach your dog calmer, more polite greetings. At Petdirect, we get pet, so let's walk you through how to stop your dog jumping up on people and help them become a greeting pro.

Why Dogs Jump Up

Jumping up is perfectly natural for dogs — especially puppies. It’s their way of getting close to your face, a behaviour they learn early when being licked or sniffed by their mothers. In modern human homes, this behaviour often sticks around as an impulsive way to seek attention or affection.

For many dogs, jumping becomes a self-rewarding habit. You look at them, talk to them or even push them away — and all those responses feel like attention, which encourages them to keep doing it.

How To Stop Jumping Up With Positive Training

Consistency and patience are key when it comes to stopping the jumping. Here are some practical and gentle training techniques to help teach better manners:

• Ignore The Jumping: Turn your back and avoid eye contact when your dog jumps. Wait until all four paws are on the ground, then offer attention or treats.
• Reward Calm Greetings: Keep tasty training treats nearby and reward your dog when they remain calm while greeting people.
• Teach A 'Sit To Greet' Cue: Ask your dog to sit when greeting someone. Reinforce that sitting calmly earns praise, pats or a reward.
• Leash Control During Greetings: Use a no-pull harness in public or busy settings, so you have more control and can redirect behaviour as needed.

Practice these steps consistently at the front door, at the park and with visitors at home. Repetition and reinforcement are a dog parent's best friends here.

Helpful Tools For Training At Home

A well-set-up environment makes training that much easier. Consider tools that support your dog’s learning and reduce the opportunity for unwanted jumping:

• Crate or pen setups to manage energy when guests arrive.
• Dog training aids like clickers or treat pouches to reward the right moments quickly.
• Calming supplements or chews for dogs who get overly excited or anxious in social settings.
• Interactive dog toys to redirect focus and help burn excess energy before high-stimulation events like visitor arrivals.

What Not To Do When A Dog Jumps Up

Even though jumping can seem cheeky or disobedient, it's important not to punish your dog. Harsh reactions can create fear or stress and make the behaviour harder to correct long term. Instead, stick to techniques grounded in positive reinforcement and clear boundaries.

If you have young kids, encourage them not to reward jumping with attention. Share the same cues — like asking for a sit — so everyone in the home is on the same training page.

How To Teach Visitors And Family To Respond

Your dog learns fastest when everyone reinforces the same boundaries. Brief visitors before they enter: ask them to ignore your dog until they sit or stay calm. You can even place a note on the door reminding visitors of the training rules. Consistency pays off!

If you’re working with a high-energy breed like a Border Collie or Labrador, extra mental stimulation and regular exercise can go a long way in making behaviour training easier. Try using smart toys or puzzles to satisfy their brains as much as their bodies.

When To Seek Extra Help

If your dog continues to jump after consistent training, consider speaking with a qualified dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement methods. Behavioural change can take time, especially in adolescent dogs full of bounce!

And remember — your reward is around the corner. With every patient moment, you’re guiding your dog toward becoming the calm, polite companion you know they can be.

Final Woof: You’ve Got This!

Jump-free greetings are possible with a bit of patience, teamwork, and the right tools. At Petdirect, we get pet, and we’re here to make your dog training journey a joyful one. Explore our curated range of training essentials and calming solutions to set your pup up for success.

Ready to build good habits together? Start your routine today — and don’t forget to join our Pet Perks loyalty programme and earn Airpoints™ while you shop!