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How do I stop my dog from jumping on people when they come over?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 6 months old | 45 lbs

How do I stop my dog from jumping on people uninvited ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 21st, 2018

Jumping on people to greet them is a very common and normal dog behavior - but since most humans don't appreciate it, it's definitely a good idea to teach him not to do this :) I would recommend keeping Scooby on-leash when he meets people, so that you can prevent him from continuing to practice this behavior. Stand at a distance from the person, and ask him to sit - reward with a treat when he does. Then move a bit closer, and ask him to sit again. If he gets too excited, just back up to where he can be calm again and focus, then try again. Eventually, with practice, you should be able to walk him right up to a person and ask him to sit before they pet him. If you have trouble doing this, you may want to find a good reward-based trainer in your area who can work with you in person. You can search for a qualified trainer in your area here: www.ccpdt.org

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 13th, 2017

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Training a dog to not jump is the hardest! Since your dog has mastered all the other commands hopefully with practice he will also get this down. Use your friends and family to assist you: -have your dog sit -friend/family member approaches you and your dog. If your dog stands up, the greeter immediately turns and walks away -ask your dog to "sit," and have the person approach again. -keep repeating until your dog remains seated as the person approaches. -if your dog does remain seated, the person can give your dog a treat as a reward. Do the same as above if out for walks. Ask a person that approaches you to wait for you to tell them to approach. Tell your dog to sit, have the person approach only fi your dog remains seated the entire time. Have the person stop if your dog stands and make him sit again. This will take time and practice. I hope this helps and I wish you the best!

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