Why?
Ever wonder why your dog jumps up? You're not alone! Let's uncover some possible reasons behind this behavior and learn how to keep those paws on the ground.
Excitement
Greeting behavior
Playfulness
Attention-Seeking
Lack of exercise
Learned behavior
Connection-seeking
Anxiety/Stress
Social Behavior
Coping
NOTE: Dog behavior is complex; your dog may be behaving this way for one or several of these reasons (or reasons not listed).
Let's set the record straight! Understanding the truth behind these misconceptions is crucial for effective training and behavior management.
MYTH #1:
Dogs jump to
assert dominance.
The idea that dogs behave certain ways to "dominate" humans has been debunked by modern science. Jumping is a natural behavior rooted in social interaction & communication, often driven by your dog's underlying emotions, wants, and needs.
MYTH #2:
Ignoring a jumping dog will make them stop.
Dogs are individuals, and their responses to ignoring can vary. Some dogs may learn that jumping doesn't get them attention & stop, but others might try harder to get noticed. Ignoring jumping can be harmful, especially if your dog is using it to cope with stress, anxiety, or seek connection.
MYTH #3:
Punishing a dog for jumping will teach them not to do it.
Dogs may not understand why they are being punished, especially if the rules are inconsistent. This can lead to confusion & stress, which can worsen the behavior (particularly if your dog lacks alternative coping skills). Your dog may also associate the punishment with the person instead of their own behavior, which can cause other fear-based responses & behavioral issues to develop.
MYTH #4:
Jumping is only a problem when guests are present.
Consistent training is crucial because allowing jumping at any time can reinforce the behavior. Dogs thrive on consistency, so mixed signals about when jumping is allowed can confuse them. If jumping is sometimes rewarded with attention or treats, your dog may continue the behavior. After all, dogs do what works!
MYTH #5:
My dog will stop jumping forever with the right training.
While training can help manage jumping behavior, some dogs may continue to jump due to their temperament or breed tendencies. Additionally, a dog's temperament, past experiences, and overall personality can play a significant role in their behavior. Your dog may jump from time to time, no matter how well trained they are.
Is your dog jumping?
Let's talk.
Contact Us:
In-Person Service Counties:
Essex, Morris, Union, Middlesex, & Passaic counties
We are located in:
Parsippany-Troy Hills, NJ 07054
DISCLAIMER: Behavior modification is a collaborative process that depends on the consistent implementation of training techniques by the owner. While we specialize in fostering positive behavioral changes, no trainer can guarantee specific outcomes or "cure" a dog's behavior. As behavior is influenced by numerous factors, including environment and individual circumstances, the dog's behavior remains the responsibility of the owner.
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