Overexcited pups: Tips to help your dog stop jumping on people
American Kennel Club (TNS)
When dogs get excited, it’s natural that they might jump, especially when greeting people. Although a dog’s intentions might be harmless, it can be unsafe for larger dogs to jump on people, especially kids or the elderly.
The American Kennel Club recommends the following tips for helping your pup stop jumping on people: Ignore the jumping. As hard as it may be, ignoring your dog when they are jumping shows them that there is no attention to be gained from this behavior. This is effective because a lot the time, dogs jump to get attention because they are overly eager. Do not make eye contact or speak until all four of your pup’s feet are on the floor, then calmly praise them.
Turning away. Another effective tactic for ignoring is to physically turn your back to your dog while they are jumping. Once they stop jumping and realize they aren’t getting the reaction they wanted, you can turn around and praise them.
Teaching alternative tricks. If your pup is sitting or lying down, they cannot jump. Teaching these skills to your dog as an alternative to jumping is a good idea if this behavior is frequent for your dog. Always praise calmly when your dog holds the position and stays.
Keep calm. If your dog gets excited easily, try some tactics to calm them down. If you have a guest coming over and know that that makes your pup jumpy and excited, try taking them for a long walk beforehand so they might be more relaxed.
Dining out with your pup Being in the full swing of summertime means more opportunities to enjoy the weather, and that means outdoor dining.
Whether you’re out to dinner or at weekend brunch, the American Kennel Club suggests the following tips for dining out with your dog safely: Hydration is key: Outdoor dining is most popular during the summer, and that is also the season that temperatures can climb high, especially when sitting for extended periods in the sun. Make sure your dog stays hydrated and that you bring a bowl or doggie dish from home that can be filled with water. If your pooch looks to be panting heavily, it’s time to head home.
Puppy proof: Before settling in at the table or looking at the menu, be sure to do a scan of the area and under the table and chairs to ensure there is nothing your dog can munch on. Certain fattening foods can cause pancreatitis or other health issues in dogs, and there’s also the risk of foods that might make your dog sick, like chocolate or raisins.
Bring a toy: Having a meal and catching up with friends can be a wonderful time, but your dog may get antsy quickly while under the table and on a short leash. Bring something entertaining for your pup, like an interactive toy or various goodies.
Make the best decision for your pup: If your dog gets easily stressed or anxious in busy environments, it’s best to leave them at home when going out. This way, you (and other restaurant patrons) can enjoy your meal without worrying about making your dog uncomfortable.
– For more tips on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at www.akc.org.
