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Good Paws Guide / Articles / How to stop a dog jumping up

Guide · updated 1 November 2026 · by the Good Paws Guide team

How to stop a dog jumping up

How to Stop a Dog Jumping Up at People
Short answer: Dogs jump up to greet faces and get attention. Stop rewarding it (no eye contact, talking or pushing while paws are up), teach an alternative such as sit or four paws on the floor, reward that heavily at greetings, and manage visitors with a lead or barrier until the new habit is solid.

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Guide to everyday manners like jumping up, according to the vendor.

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The method

  1. Teach a solid sit in calm moments.
  2. At greetings, ask for sit before your dog jumps; reward at nose level.
  3. If paws go up, turn away silently; turn back when four paws are down.
  4. Practise with family entering repeatedly.

Visitors

Pop your dog on a lead or behind a baby gate when guests arrive. Ask guests to greet only when your dog is calm.

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Secrets to Dog Training

Guide to everyday manners like jumping up, according to the vendor.

See Secrets to Dog Training →  Read our notes

Mistakes

Related

See also puppy biting and tiring out a dog indoors.

When to get professional help: sudden behaviour changes, aggression, or toileting problems can have medical causes, so see your vet first. For behaviour help, look for a qualified practitioner on the Animal Behaviour and Training Council register (abtc.org.uk). If you think a pet is in an emergency, call your vet straight away.

Common questions

Why does my dog jump on me when I get home?

To greet your face and get attention; calm, boring arrivals help.

How long does it take to stop jumping?

Usually a few weeks if everyone in the house is consistent.

Should I knee my dog?

No. It can hurt and often makes jumping more exciting.

What we’d look at next

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Secrets to Dog Training

Guide to everyday manners like jumping up, according to the vendor.

See Secrets to Dog Training →  Read our notes

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Brain Training for Dogs

Impulse-control games that help over-excited dogs.

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Not sure which fits? Take the 30-second quiz or see our comparisons.

Related comparisons: Brain Training for Dogs vs Secrets to Dog Training · Best online guides for pet behaviour problems

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